Study: Trayless dining reduces food waste by 15 million pounds

April 23—According to a national survey conducted by Aramark Higher Education, trayless dining in Aramark cafes is having a significant impact in reducing food waste on the company's campuses.

According to the study going trayless in dining halls reduces waste by approximately two ounces per person, per meal. As of spring 2012, more than 300 colleges and universities served by Aramark have removed trays from their dining halls, diverting more than 15 million pounds of food waste from landfills this year, while reducing trash hauling needs, decreasing water and chemical use and reducing electricity consumption.

"Trayless dining is just one high-impact example of how engaging an entire community can yield significant results for the environment," Christopher Stemen, associate vice president of sustainability for Aramark Higher Education, said in a press release. "Our goal is to involve the campus community in sustainable practices that they can incorporate into their daily lives. By making every day Earth Day, we can positively impact our campuses, local communities and planet all at the same time."