Giovanni Gonzalez /Staff Writer
For the third year running, the University will be competing with over 400 other universities and colleges in Recyclemania to help the school be greener.
Recyclemania is a series of events hosted by the Office of University Sustainability, which will occur between Feb. 5 and March 31. The events are intended to promote awareness and action that will help the University improve its recycling habits and reduce its waste stream.
Throughout the competition, the University will not only be judged on how much recyclable material can be collected, but also on how much waste can be reduced in general.
The University has been part of the movement for three years now and is actually a fierce competitor. “Last year, we came in second in the state of Florida and first in the Sunbelt division,” said Alexandra Dutton, the program assistant at the Office of
University Sustainability. “We recycled 30 to 40 tons per week and about 2,000 tons throughout the academic year.”
Currently, the University is working towards a mandated goal of recycling 75 percent of its waste stream by the year 2020 and is currently recycling at 30 percent, but the Office of University Sustainability has been working to help the school improve its recycling habits for some time.
“After hearing a lot of input from students,” said Dutton, “we felt recycling was important and wanted to help the school go green.”
Recyclemania will feature several Dream Machines throughout campus, which can only be described as reverse vending machines. Students can deposit recyclable materials into the Dream Machines and collect points that can be refunded for coupons, gift cards and other prizes.
It also features other events which all students are encouraged to attend. “Black Out, Green On!” is the first event on Feb. 7 at 6 p.m. at the Housing Quad. During this event, students should turn off their lights and electronics to conserve energy and enjoy a party featuring a DJ, performances and giveaways.
On Feb. 9, there will be both men’s and women’s basketball games, and a Dream Machine will be at the arena, so bring your recyclables.
Feb. 15 will feature more Dream Machines being placed around campus, and Dream Machine partners will be present at the Green Library breezeway to teach students how to use them.
The movement is not just for the students, though. “Clean Out Your Files Week” will take place during spring break, which encourages faculty and staff to recycle their paper waste.
The University is well on its way to achieving its goal by the year 2020, and the events promote student involvement in the process. “By hosting Recyclemania and other events, we hope to increase our recycling rate,” said Dutton.
About Post Author
