After Spring Break, students came back to campus ready to finish off the semester strong. However, one thing was slightly different at Villanova than when students departed a week earlier.
In the past, if a student wished to take food out of the dining hall to another location on campus or get late night after 9 p.m., they were given a paper style box that could be used then disposed of when no longer needed. Now, Villanova has introduced blue plastic takeout boxes that can be checked out of the dining halls, then returned by students.
This implementation was passed by the Student Government Association (SGA) in order to reduce the amount of waste being produced on campus, but there has been widespread criticism regardless.
On the first day of the new system, students were prompted to sign up for reuse passes, which would allow Villanova to track boxes that leave the dining hall and implement the three days return rule before fines began. This system confused many students instantly as they had to use their phones to scan out the boxes, as opposed to just receiving them from Dining Services staff. In addition, Villanova was not initially clear about how to return the boxes leaving students confused after taking the boxes out of the dining hall. Later on, Dining Services made an Instagram post laying out how to return the boxes using the return kiosks at the dining hall’s entrances, but this came days later. Many students were also confused on whether or not they needed to clean the boxes prior to returning them before the video was released.
The reusable revolution has made its way to late night as well. In the past, late night, served at Spit, Pit and St. Mary’s dining halls, was served in brown paper boxes that could easily be transported out of the dining hall or used inside as well. Now, late night has taken new form. Instead of the old method, dining services staff will ask students if they wish to dine in or take out which will determine how their food is served. If students opt to dine in, late night will be served on a plastic tray that can then be left in the dining hall to be cleaned. If a student opts to take out, they will then have to check out the blue plastic takeout boxes and follow the same policies as they would if taking out during normal dining hall hours.
Many reading this article will probably think to themselves that although these implementations may cause confusion and frustration amongst students, the overall goal of the new system is much more important. Although these opinions are valid, many have argued that the new system isn’t all that it seems since the reusable boxes that are distributed are made of plastic, which is counterintuitive to many.
While Villanova’s new reusable system may seem like a step toward sustainability, it raises several concerns. The environmental impact of plastic, even when reused, isn’t overlooked by many, especially when considering the risks of proper sanitation.
Additionally, the initial lack of clear communication and accessibility for students regarding the new undermines its effectiveness. A new take on the system could take initiative to reduce waste while also aligning with the values of the student body. If these small changes are not made, the current system may risk missing the mark in its quest for a greener campus.
