Although the term “Styrofoam” is a registered trademark for an extruded polystyrene, the term ‘”Styrofoam” has been used generically to refer to expanded polystyrene foam. As used in this policy the term “Styrofoam” means only expanded polystyrene foam. Expanded polystyrene foam is used is such things as disposable coffee cups, coolers, and cushioning material in packaging.
The district recognizes its responsibility for providing an environment that is reasonably secure from known hazards.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency and others have determined that styrene is a possible human carcinogen. In addition, polystyrene is very slow to degrade and therefore has potentially adverse effects on the environment.
It is the policy of the district to provide a healthy environment for students, school personnel, and the public within the district’s facilities. To that end, the district has determined that it should not purchase or use any product containing Styrofoam within district facilities. Instead of purchasing and using products containing Styrofoam, district personnel should purchase and use alternative products, such as paper, cardboard, 100% bio compostable cups, or similar biodegradable items.
Whenever possible, considering the needs of district’s kitchen staff, re-usable materials should be purchased and used.
When purchase of disposable products is necessary, the district will give preference to items that can be composed or recycled, as well as products that are produced though a manufacturing process that is not destructive to the environment or harmful to human health.
The superintendent or designee shall create practices and procedures to implement the requirements of this policy. The superintendent may temporarily excuse from compliance with this policy any vendor who has a current contract with the district that involves the use of Styrofoam products, but this policy shall apply to the renewal or extension of any such contract.
It is not the intent of the district to expand or modify the district’s potential liability exposure through the adoption of this policy.
Adopted: November 2015
Revised: September 2020
Lake County School District R-1, Leadville, Colorado