A Green School
As part of our mission to preserve the environment, Berkwood Hedge School is committed to setting an example for sustainability and environmental awareness through our curriculum, recycling programs and purchasing decisions.
In 2005 we became the first school in Alameda County to earn certification as a Green Business, and each year we continue to reduce waste, conserve energy and water, and educate our students about sustainable ways of living.
Our efforts include:
- Full Belly Farms Partnership Program
- recycling all cardboard, mixed paper, cans, bottles, aluminum foil, and plastic.
- using either reusable or compostable plates, cups, tableware and napkins at all school events where food is served. Daily snack in our afterschool program is served using reusable plates and bowls.
- planting California native and drought tolerant plants in the garden areas surrounding the school and watering our gardens using drip irrigation.
- depositing our snack and lunchtime fruit and vegetable waste in small compost containers. This compostable waste gets fed to our composting worms. All other compostable waste is added to the three "green bins" located around the school.
- using 30% post consumer waste paper for all copying.
- purchasing and using "green" and natural non-toxic cleaning products and art supplies.
- encouraging everyone in our community to use public transportation, carpool, bike, or walk to school and actively participating in an annual Bike to Work and School Day.
- conserving water by sweeping rather than hosing down the school-grounds.