The new initiative, however, does not impact cold beverages. Compostable cups will still be provided for students planning to consume cold beverages beyond the dining halls. 

The elimination of paper coffee cups is not the only change CDS plans to make this academic year. 

CDS is continuing to work on expanding Chase Hall by opening new seating areas and new food stations. The project includes creating a 5,000-square-foot outdoor dining area that will include 115 seats. 

Although the project is expected to be completed in October, the plans were introduced about four years ago. The Student Dining Board, a student group that meets weekly to provide feedback on dining hall services, started reviewing the plans a year after they were first introduced. 

In addition to creating more space in Chase, CDS also plans on increasing its menu options by including more allergen-free stations for its students. 

Some students on campus said they are satisfied with the emphasis CDS placed on sustainability efforts. 

“It’s not something that was on my radar, beforehand, like ‘Oh, they need to change this,’ but the fact that they’re aware of these things and made the change is a good thing, a good reflection on the program” Brandon Koluch, a junior majoring in public policy and communication studies, said. 

Reo Aono, a sophomore majoring in global studies, said he thinks the new initiative is a step in the right direction in terms of increasing sustainability efforts. 

“I don’t have strong opinions about it but as I said, it’s really great to look after the environment,” Aono said. “Taking those small steps is really important to making bigger changes.”

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