In the opinion column by Joe Vandehey (“One recycling contest does not a better planet make,” ODE Feb. 21), several misconceptions were raised. My purpose in writing is to address these. I would like to begin by congratulating Mr. Vandehey for his strong recycling ethic and personal goal of waste reduction. It would be great if everyone embraced this mindset.
RecycleMania is an important competition that has helped colleges start recycling programs, boost overall recovery and advance waste reduction/zero waste efforts, while inspiring students to think about their impact. This competition was created in the spirit of intercollegiate sports. There are numerous categories to compete, including per capita recycling and waste minimization. The UO currently competes in the per capita classic.
A number of universities have successfully operated waste reduction/recycling programs for more than 10 years. In fact, the University can boast some of the highest recycling and waste diversion rates in the country. Residence halls and dining halls account for a significant portion of a university’s waste, with audits showing easily recyclable/compostable items dominating the pile. Clearly, recycling at this University is far from perfect. Assuming that “most everyone here already recycles” is completely false – just look in any UO trash bin.
So, why does the University participate in RecycleMania? RecycleMania is an avenue through which Campus Recycling can reach out to students who may otherwise not recycle. According to Vandehey, “the contest might even cause students to recycle less … ” Surely, RecycleMania seeks to incorporate routine recycling habits into the daily lives of all University students. This competition provides motivation for students to get involved and embrace a team spirit, while taking steps to do something that makes a difference.
Some people recycle all the time. Others recycle some of time, while a few people never recycle. Reaching out to the extremes isn’t the point of Recyclemania. It is to motivate people in the middle. Recyclemania at the UO is targeted at residence halls and therefore primarily new, incoming students. Experience shows this population is least likely to recycle and most in need of motivation. Recyclemania is a way to educate students to embrace this practice for life.
In Vandehey’s column, he states: “Less recycling would be better because it emphasizes that wonderful principle of ‘reduce.’” RecycleMania does not distract from the principle of “reduce,” which is the ultimate goal. Recycling is not the sole solution to environmental problems; it is just one piece. This is an opportunity for people to actually think about their consumption and promote conservation. What’s wrong with patting people on the back for doing something small that makes a big difference? Recyclemania is a positive thing and it is making a huge difference. So join us, and hear us loud and clear when the nation’s colleges say thanks for recycling!
Nick Schultz is student education coordinator for UO Campus Recycling.