The Hawk

Issue date: 9/26/07 Section: News

The recycling program has been a success so far.

In an effort to make Saint Joseph's University more environmentally friendly, the Department of Health, Safety, and Environmental Compliance (HSE) has recently expanded the University's recycling program to include more recyclable materials and installed collection areas throughout the campus.

The expanded program, which went into effect on June 1, allows students to recycle paper, newspaper, aluminum and tin cans, glass, and plastics numbered one or two only. Recycling bins are available in most campus buildings and dormitories. A number of receptacles for recyclable materials will be located in hallways, lobbies, laundry rooms, and vending machine areas throughout the University.

The early participation in the program has been encouraging. Joe Browne, director of auxiliary services, said that there have already been eight pickups of 40-yard containers full of recyclables since June.

"So far the recycling program been a tremendous success," said Browne. "But we still have a ways to go."

The most important step for the program now is to raise student and faculty awareness. Browne and Jim Torrance, director of housekeeping, have already met with the University Student Senate, RAs, and Area Coordinators, and will soon meet with the Faculty Senate to increase awareness of the new recycling measures.

Michael McCann, Ph.D., Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, is charged with making recycling part of the Saint Joseph's University education. He formed a cooperation between Browne and Torrance and two sections of Principles of Marketing courses taught by Scott Testa, Ph.D., adjunct professor of marketing.

These classes will form recommendations on how to best raise awareness about the program, including drawing attention to the location of containers and designing signs for the school.

The dedication of students and faculty is what will keep us improving and moving ahead," said Browne.

A recycling program at Saint Joseph's University has been in the works for at least three years, according to Browne. The largest obstacle to this effort was the need for full-time employees to monitor the program. The Budget Advisory Committee approved funding for the program as well as a recycling coordinator, Ruby Robinson and her assistant, Anthony Williams.

A student environmental group, Get Ready for Environmental Education Now/Conservation of Wildlife, or GREENCOW, has been adamant about starting new recycling measures for years. Mallory Cosfol, '08, is acting president of the group and stressed the importance of student involvement in the new program.

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