Finding simple solutions to reducing food waste can be the best. The Center decided to eliminate the use of trays in an effort to reduce food waste. When students have a tray to fill with food, they’ll do just that. And more often than not, students realize their eyes are bigger than their stomach and end up tossing out the remaining food. 
We have been without trays for approximately three months and have already noticed a significant decrease in food waste. We found that going trayless lowers not only food waste but also waste removal cost, the cost of water, energy, and cleaning supplies used when cleaning the trays. It is estimated that the cafeteria has saved approximately 300lbs of food each week. Students are no longer able to fill their trays with food they do not eat but instead can get a small portion and go back for more if necessary. All financial savings achieved will be reinvested into the cafeteria and food programs.