Wolfville, NS, September 4, 2009 – Acadia University will reduce its environmental footprint even further when it introduces “trayless” dining to its returning students this September. Food service trays have been removed from Wheelock Dining Hall through a student-inspired initiative intended to reduce food waste, water use and energy consumption.
“Acadia diners will be helping to significantly reduce food-waste and water and energy consumption which are key elements of Acadia’s overall sustainability strategy” said Edith Callaghan, Director of the Arthur Irving Academy for the Environment. “In addition to the environmental benefits, trayless dining also has important financial and health benefits. Reduced waste reduces operating costs and helps curb excess food consumption, which is healthier for students. Our student leaders need to be congratulated for their commitment to this important initiative and embracing ideas that promote environmental sustainability.”
Trayless dining at Acadia began as a pilot in 2008. Students initiated trayless Fridays in the dining hall, and some students and one entire residence pledged to not use trays during the entire year. Consulting with student leaders, the University decided to implement trayless dining permanently. Acadia is the latest to join a growing list of North American post-secondary institutions that have already implemented trayless dining.
The official launch will be held September 7th when returning students arrive for the academic year. A President’s Lunch is planned at 12:30pm in Wheelock Dining Hall to introduce trayless dining to new and returning students and to celebrate Acadia’s many sustainable food service initiatives. Acadia President Ray Ivany, Acadia Students’ Union President, Jon Cottreau, Andy Murray, Director of Food Services, and Alex Redfield, Coordinator of the Acadia Farm will give brief remarks. Staff, faculty and returning students are invited to join the Presidents at this event to mark the launch of trayless dining at Acadia.
Trayless dining at Acadia is a collaborative initiative between Students Affairs, the Arthur Irving Academy for the Environment, Facilities Management, Chartwells, and the Acadia Student Environment Network. |
