DFAC implements ‘green’ container program

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Chester Mientkiewicz
  • 366 Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --  The Wagon Wheel Dinning Facility will be the first location in the Air Force testing reusable to-go containers with an objective of saving money and helping the environment.

“This is a planet saving program designed to reduce land fill and help with recycling,” said Airman 1st Class Casey Robertson, 366th Force Support Squadron food service apprentice. “It has the potential to save the Air Force money.”

With the new program, Airmen will produce less trash by utilizing reusable containers instead of disposable Styrofoam containers.

“I think it’s a good program,” said Tech. Sgt. Arrin Gunn, 366th Force Support Squadron food service accountant. “Making a greener Air Force translates to a greener world.”

The reusable containers are sturdier, will keep the food warm for longer and will be washed upon return to the DFAC.

Robertson explained that things may be slow at first, but he believes it will be a well-oiled machine once everyone uses the containers.

“One benefit for the workers is less manual labor for transporting and carrying Styrofoam boxes, Robertson said. “We’re saving the earth one [container] at a time.”

When they sign up, Airmen will receive either one or two coins.

Dorm members get their coins for free. Members who haven’t signed up yet, can do so at the DFAC.

Airmen give a coin for a clean container and receive one when they return it for accountability purposes.

“Make sure you sign into our roster to avoid delays in the future,” Robertson said.

If you lose your tray you are responsible to pay for a replacement.

“If you’re not signed in to the program your only option will be to dine in to the facility,” Gunn said.

Members on basic allowance for subsistence can also participate, but must pay $3.66 for each container.

“I hope that we can provide the Air Force with some positive data to spread this to other bases around the Air Force,” Gunn said.

A launch lunch and ribbon cutting will take place at the Wagon Wheel Dining Facility March 19 at 12:00 p.m.