Department ofDining & Culinary Services

Dining & Culinary Services makes a concious effort to source renewable, compostable & biodegradable disposable items

"Not recycling is cheaper than recycling."

FACT: Recycling should always be compared against disposal, since the material still must be transported off campus. Not recycling means paying for more disposal.

The Commons To-Go Packaging

Made from post conusmer waste and it's all compostable.

Napkins — Dispensers vs. Baskets

In the fall of 2007, we switched from napkins in baskets to napkin dispensers.  We now purchase about 10% less—which translates to 8 fewer cases or 48,000 fewer napkins when compared to the same time frame for 2006-2007.

Paper Straws

When The Commons switched to the use of  paper straws, we reduced the amount of  un-recyclable plastic to the local landfill by 3.276 miles of straws placed end to end. We're using Aardvark paper drinking straws, they are a sustainable product that is fully biodegradable, compost-friendly and 100% chlorine free.

Chopsticks

Sourced from renewable bamboo and they can be composted.

Salt & Pepper Shakers

The shakers that we use are all recyclable.