The use of Styrofoam containers in correctional facilities is causing major problems—they are not only wasteful and detrimental to the environment, but they burn a hole in your budget too.
The use of Styrofoam and other forms of disposable containers could be costing your facility upwards of $100,000 annually. When we look at the real-life savings potential of switching to a reusable system, the numbers speak for themselves.
Savings Potential: A Real-World Example
A large county jail on the east coast serving 2,000 inmates three times per day was spending $0.09 per clamshell. By switching to a reusable tray system, their daily operational costs dropped significantly.
| Expense Category | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Cost of Styrofoam (2,000 inmates x 3 meals x 365 days) | $197,100 |
| Cost of Reusable System (Chemicals + Labor) | ($14,600) |
| Net Annual Savings | $182,500 |
Investment and ROI
Transitioning to reusables does require an upfront investment in inventory and infrastructure. For this facility, the investment included 4,000 sets of trays and lids (to allow for wash cycles) and 11 drying racks.
- Total Upfront Cost: $60,296 (Trays, Lids, and Racks)
- Break-Even Point: Just 121 days
- First Year Net Savings: $122,204
- Subsequent Annual Savings: $178,204 (after 10% replacement allowance)
Beyond the Budget: Safety and Security
Apart from the financial benefits, there is a critical safety factor. Styrofoam has the potential to be melted down and repurposed into weapons by inmates.
Using JonesZylon's MaxFlex Tray is an excellent way to ensure that no weapons are created. Even if the material is tampered with or subjected to heat, it is engineered to remain safe and non-lethal, providing peace of mind for facility administrators and COs alike.
Ready to see how much your facility could save? Our specialists can provide a custom ROI calculation based on your specific population and current disposable spend.