Pol Le, News Editor—
Denison University’s Green Team recently created a petition to replace plastic bottles with recyclable aluminum cans in Slayter Market and The Nest. The goal is to reduce plastic waste and to make the University’s dining practices more sustainable, especially in response to changes in Denison’s recycling program.
The Green Team’s effort to replace plastic bottles with aluminum cans has been met with widespread support from the Denison community. The team has launched a petition on Change.org, with the description “Letter of Support for Aluminum Cans,” which has received 486 signatures out of a goal of 500 on February 5. Additionally, the petition has received comments and donations from the community.
Most plastic is not truly recyclable, and Denison’s Campus Sustainability Committee put a hold on plastic recycling in late October 2022 after new findings showed that plastic recycling can cause more harm than good. The organization believes that switching to aluminum cans is a step in the right direction. Unlike plastic, aluminum can be recycled almost indefinitely.
A recent report by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) found that less than 10% of the plastic used worldwide is actually recycled into new materials. Plastic waste has more than doubled since 2000, with 22% disposed of in uncontrolled dumpsites, burned in open pits, or leaked into the environment.
The Green Team is hoping to get the support of the DCGA Senate by writing a resolution and including a letter of support from the Dining Committee and the student body through the petition.
“Last Thursday we gathered everyone from Green Team and went around, asking people to sign [the petition]. I am excited because our next step is to go to DCGA and write the resolution,” Green Team member, Charlotte Meyers said.
The Green Team’s mission to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainability has been well received, and they hope to make a positive impact on the environment. The switch to aluminum cans is a significant goal toward creating a more sustainable campus.