Crespi Carmelite High School Champions Sustainability with Reencle Composting Technology
Los Angeles-based Crespi Carmelite High School is setting a powerful example of environmental stewardship by adopting innovative composting technology to tackle food waste. This forward-thinking initiative, highlights the school’s commitment to sustainability and aligns with California's groundbreaking food waste legislation.
Addressing California’s Food Waste Mandate
California’s Senate Bill 1383 (SB 1383) is one of the most ambitious food waste laws in the United States. The law, which took effect in 2022, requires a 75% reduction in organic waste disposal by 2025 and mandates that 20% of edible food currently sent to landfills be recovered for human consumption. To comply, residents and businesses alike must separate organic waste from other trash, with penalties for non-compliance starting in 2024.For schools like Crespi Carmelite High School, this law presented both an opportunity and a challenge. While the school already had a three-bin recycling system—black for trash, green for organics, and blue for recyclables—composting efforts on campus were inconsistent. Food waste from the school’s canteen often went unaddressed, leaving room for improvement in how organic materials were managed.
A Collaborative Solution
Recognizing the need for change, Chris Knabenshue, a passionate advocate for sustainability at Crespi Carmelite High School partnered with Dr. Brahim, the STEM Department Chair and coordinator of the STEM Cohort program, to explore innovative solutions for the school’s composting challenges. That search led to the discovery of the Reencle, a cutting-edge electric composter designed to simplify food waste management.
The school invested in several household Reencle units, each capable of processing up to 2.2 lbs of food waste daily. The STEM Cohort students were educated on how to use the Reencle units and took the initiative to lead the education, usage and maintenance of some of the units on campus. This student-led hands-on approach allowed them to learn about composting while also participating in the process. The program quickly gained popularity among both students and staff, showcasing the potential of small-scale composting to drive meaningful change on campus.
Encouraged by the success of the initial units, Crespi Carmelite High School furthered its commitment to sustainability by installing a commercial-grade Reencle unit capable of processing up to 100 lbs of food waste per day. This upgrade has significantly reduced the food waste generated from the school’s canteen while providing students with even greater opportunities to engage with sustainable practices.
The school invested in several household Reencle units, each capable of processing up to 2.2 lbs of food waste daily. The STEM Cohort students were educated on how to use the Reencle units and took the initiative to lead the education, usage and maintenance of some of the units on campus. This student-led hands-on approach allowed them to learn about composting while also participating in the process. The program quickly gained popularity among both students and staff, showcasing the potential of small-scale composting to drive meaningful change on campus.
Encouraged by the success of the initial units, Crespi Carmelite High School furthered its commitment to sustainability by installing a commercial-grade Reencle unit capable of processing up to 100 lbs of food waste per day. This upgrade has significantly reduced the food waste generated from the school’s canteen while providing students with even greater opportunities to engage with sustainable practices.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Environmental Leaders
The introduction of Reencle technology has had a profound impact on Crespi Carmelite High School’s students. Through their participation in the STEM Cohort program, students have gained a deeper understanding of what can and cannot be composted and have become more aware of the broader environmental benefits of composting.
This newfound knowledge has inspired students to dream big. Many now envision creating a small garden on campus where they can use the nutrient-rich compost produced by Reencle units to grow plants and vegetables—a tangible way to see their efforts come full circle. This hands-on experience not only reinforces classroom learning but also empowers students to take ownership of their role in protecting the environment.
This newfound knowledge has inspired students to dream big. Many now envision creating a small garden on campus where they can use the nutrient-rich compost produced by Reencle units to grow plants and vegetables—a tangible way to see their efforts come full circle. This hands-on experience not only reinforces classroom learning but also empowers students to take ownership of their role in protecting the environment.
A Call to Action for Schools Everywhere
Crespi Carmelite High School’s journey serves as an inspiring example of how schools can lead the way in addressing food waste while educating future generations about sustainability. According to US GM of Reencle, Joe Tegerdine said “we are proud to support institutions like Crespi High that are taking bold steps toward reducing their environmental footprint. As an electric composter brand committed to tackling food waste, we believe that education is key to driving lasting change. By providing schools with practical tools and resources, we aim to empower educators and students alike to make informed decisions about managing food waste in their daily lives.
We encourage other schools across California—and beyond—to consider adopting innovative solutions like Reencle technology. Together, we can create a ripple effect that not only helps meet regulatory requirements but also fosters a culture of sustainability within our communities.”
We encourage other schools across California—and beyond—to consider adopting innovative solutions like Reencle technology. Together, we can create a ripple effect that not only helps meet regulatory requirements but also fosters a culture of sustainability within our communities.”
Join Us in Building a More Sustainable Future
Crespi Carmelite High School’s success story is proof that small changes can lead to big impacts when it comes to sustainability. By integrating composting technology into their curriculum and campus operations, they are not only complying with California’s food waste laws but also inspiring students to become environmental champions in their own right.
At Reencle, we are committed to supporting schools and communities as they navigate the challenges of food waste management. Whether you’re looking for innovative solutions or educational resources, we’re here to help you take the first step toward a greener tomorrow.
At Reencle, we are committed to supporting schools and communities as they navigate the challenges of food waste management. Whether you’re looking for innovative solutions or educational resources, we’re here to help you take the first step toward a greener tomorrow.