Sustainability & Our World
At Pine Street School, sustainability isn’t just taught—it’s lived. From eco-conscious operations to hands-on learning, students explore climate change, renewable energy, and food systems with purpose and curiosity. Through gardening, recycling, and service projects, they see how small choices create big impact. By modeling mindful consumption and responsible practices, we’re raising a generation of global citizens who live sustainably—and lead with intention.
Our coffee cups are corn-based polyactic acid (PLA) and biodegradable. Our clear cups are corn resin - compostable, petroleum-free, renewable and biodegradable - and are only used for events. For daily lunches, we use reusable cups.
Our floors are made of linoleum—a durable, all-natural material that’s nearly carbon neutral. It’s a sustainable choice that supports a healthier planet from the ground up.
For everyday lunches, we use reusable cutlery to reduce waste. At events, our forks, knives, and spoons are made from cornstarch—not plastic—offering a compostable alternative that’s better for the planet.
For everyday lunches, we use reusable cutlery to reduce waste. At events, our forks, knives, and spoons are made from cornstarch—not plastic—offering a compostable alternative that’s better for the planet.
For everyday lunches, we use reusable cutlery to reduce waste. At events, our forks, knives, and spoons are made from cornstarch—not plastic—offering a compostable alternative that’s better for the planet.
At Pine Street School, even our lights are part of our commitment to the planet. With motion sensors and timed systems throughout the building, we’ve reduced our energy use by 50%—minimizing waste while maximizing efficiency.
Even our garbage bags make a difference—each one is made from 50% recycled plastic, reducing our environmental footprint one bag at a time.
Even our garbage bags make a difference—each one is made from 50% recycled plastic, reducing our environmental footprint one bag at a time.
Our paper towels are 60% recycled fiber (40% post-consumer). Our tissues are Green Seal Certified and 100% recycled content (90% post-consumer). Our wipes are compostable, plant-based and renewable.
All of our paper materials are locally produced in upstate New York by Mohawk, a company committed to sustainable and carbon neutral practices. This paper is 100% recycled content, processed without chlorine or harm to forests and Greal Seal Certified.
Made by Interface, a company with a mission to reverse global warming through mindful design and manufacturing practices. Our carpets are 100% carbon neutral.
All of our uneaten lunches are donated to Rescuing Leftover Cuisine, helping nourish those in need by delivering fresh food to local homeless shelters. It’s one more way we turn care into action.