Case Study: Ocean City High School’s Student-Led Reusable Cup Program Creates a Sustainable Future with Returnr
Ocean City High School (OCHS) in Ocean City, N.J., is making a significant stride toward a greener future with the launch of its student-led Reusable Cup Program. Championed by senior Joseph Heng, the initiative is a powerful example of how student leadership, dedicated mentorship, and quality reusable products can drive real, measurable environmental change within a community.
The Challenge: Reducing Single-Use Waste
Joseph Heng, with the guidance of National Honor Society advisor and AP Biology teacher Catherine Georges, identified the need to reduce single-use waste within the school and local community. The goal was to establish a program that not only promoted environmental responsibility but also fostered positive connections between the students and local businesses.
The Solution: Returnr’s Durable, Reusable Cups
As a core component of the program, every OCHS student in grades 9-12 received a free, high-quality 12-ounce powder-coated stainless steel cup supplied by Returnr. Each cup is laser-engraved with the Ocean City High School logo, providing a lasting, pride-filled solution to single-use consumption.
The program was executed through extensive fundraising, including grants such as the National Honor Society National Service Grant, along with community donations, raising funds to cover the initial cost of distribution.
Measurable Impact and Community Partnerships
The Returnr cups serve as a passport for sustainability, allowing students to receive discounts on beverages at participating local businesses, including Ocean City Coffee Company, Positively Fourth Street Cafe, Holiday Coffee, Dead End Bakehouse, Barefoot Market, Raider Retailers, and Wawa. This system encourages sustainable habits and reinforces the bond between the students and the town.
Richard Bernardini, OCEC Chairman, noted, "This project demonstrates the power of student leadership when paired with strong mentorship. Joseph identified a real-world problem and worked with Mrs. Georges and community partners to create a lasting solution that benefits both the school and the town."
The program is designed for financial sustainability, with future costs focused on supplying cups to incoming freshmen and plans to expand sales to local community members, furthering the goal of making Ocean City "America's Greenest Family Resort."
To start creating your custom reusable cup, contact Returnr today: https://returnr.org/pages/contact-us
We’re here to help you build a better beverage experience, one cup at a time.
