Western University
IN-25: Innovation B

The Choose2Reuse program offers the unlimited use of reusable takeout containers for a $5 buy-in. The process is as follows: Students inform the service staff that they would like their Dining Hall meal to-go Themeal will be served in a reusable eco-tainer Students purchase membership to the Choose2Reuse program for $5 at the checkout (they may use their meal plan card for the buy-in) When finished with the container, students simply return it DIRTY to the designated Choose2Reuse drop off area (near the cash) and collect their Choose2Reuse "membership" card All eco-tainers are washed and sanitized, so that all food will be placed in clean Choose2Reuse containers This process is repeated for a greener Dining Hall experience! Card for container, container for card. And so on! This exchange processes of Choose2Reuse can be used an unlimited number of times throughout the academic year, as long as students hold on to either their "membership" card, or an eco-tainer. The sturdy little container can go a long way in reducing the amount of waste produced in residence. In 2016/2017, 5950 eco-tainers were sold to students in residence, which is more than 100% of the total amount of students living in residence. This means that certain individuals purchased more than 1 eco-tainer. In 2015/2016, 4016 eco-tainers were sold to students in residence. This clearly shows that this innovative program is catching on among first year students.