Pocono News Section

Takeout Going Green At Bloomsburg University

Takeout Going Green At Bloomsburg University - Wednesday, February 3, 2010 at 5:25PM EST

Reported by: Jeremy Deebel
Wednesday, Feb 3, 2010 @ 05:25pm EST
Bloomsburg, Columbia County-

Getting takeout at Bloomsburg University is getting a lot greener. Students now have a new, more eco-friendly way of grabbing a meal on the go.

When B. U. students feel like skipping the cafeteria, they often come to the Husky Lounge. The food court-style setting allows them to grab a quick bite during a busy day.

Aramark Marketing Director Tara Lynn noted, "We serve anywhere between 16,000-18,000 people a week."

Now they can also save the environment, using new eco-to-go containers.

B. U. freshman Kayla McGowan said, "I think it's a really good idea because it's just helping the environment and saving a lot of things. I have one in my dorm room now so it's helping a lot and it makes it easier."

Lynn explained, "Instead of the Styrofoam containers that are used a lot for takeout, students can get a re-usable, very heavy plastic container, use it and bring it back, and we'll wash it and give them a brand new one."

B. U. senior Ryan Donnelley said, "It shows that the school is consciously making an effort to try to improve the environment, and it's cool, you know what I mean?"

After the trays are used, they're brought back to the kitchen, washed thoroughly, and then sent out to be re-used again.

At the 600 schools Aramark serves in North America, they estimate about two million disposable containers per year will be removed from landfills.

B. U. is serving as test school for the Aramark initiative. They will continue to offer both types of containers for now, but with student support, could switch to the more eco-friendly variety permanently.

Donnelley noted, "It starts with us, with the youth. If we can start right now and consciously go and do it, and put it into our lives, then the next generation will get accustomed and used to it. And it has to start somewhere.”

Lynn added, "They're going to be stepping into leadership positions where they'll be able to make a difference. So if we start educating them on why it's important now, it can only help in the future."

Last year we reported on the trayless dining days in the B. U. cafeteria- aimed at reducing water and food waste.

School officials say the eco-containers are a better fit for Husky Lounge because students who order there often take their meals with them.