The Daily Tar Heel
Printing news. Raising hell. Since 1893.
Thursday, March 28, 2024 Newsletters Latest print issue

We keep you informed.

Help us keep going. Donate Today.
The Daily Tar Heel

Letter: Zero-waste game was good first step

TO THE EDITOR:

UNC’s first zero-waste athletics event at the women’s soccer game Thursday was a huge success. With the help of student volunteers and staff from the Office of Waste Reduction and Recycling and Carolina Athletics, almost all waste was either recycled or composted. And of course, it doesn’t hurt that the Tar Heels beat Wake Forest 3-0.

The transition to zero waste was surprisingly easier than expected. With the exception of a few brands of candy wrappers and plastic utensils, the majority of concessions packaging is already compostable or recyclable. At the event, all trash cans were replaced with compost and recycling bins with clear signage and volunteers. Most fans seemed appreciative of the switch, and even Chancellor Carol Folt attended and showed her support.

This program could easily be adopted at every home athletic event. Last week’s game was a great first step, but we can and should work to implement this on a broader scale over time. We look forward to continuing collaboration with Aramark, OWRR, the athletic department and students to make this happen.

UNC can always make progress to become a more sustainable university. Zero-waste games are an effective and achievable step in the right direction.

Jasmine Ruddy

Chairwoman

Environmental Affairs Committee

To get the day's news and headlines in your inbox each morning, sign up for our email newsletters.