SGA implements on-campus recycling

Last year, the SGA Senate's environmental policy committee passed a resolution calling for the implementation of a recycling program for the entire campus. Last fall, a pilot program was created to test the recycling program in the residence halls.

Kendra Key, a sophomore majoring in political science and an SGA senator from the College of Arts and Sciences, said the pilot program was a great success.

"The pilot went well last semester," Key said. "It went well enough to allow us to complete implementation of the residential aspect of the plan this spring."

The plan, Key said, has four phases designed to gradually foster lifestyle changes across campus.

"The first phase of the initiative addresses recycling in the residence halls, and the second will encompass all academic and administrative buildings," Key said. "In the next few semesters, once we build more support for the initiative, we will implement phase three, which focuses on making recycling bins available on the campus grounds, and phase four, which will make recycling available in all athletic buildings, and at events such as football games."

Some students said they are getting on board with the SGA implementing the recycling program.

Carly Dorsey, a freshman majoring in English, said she thought the program was a great idea.

"Recycling is an easy way to make a difference," Dorsey said. "Most people will recycle when given the option, which is why I think that this program was such a good idea."

Key also said joining the SGA and participating in the program is as easy as it is rewarding.

"All students should have received boxes for recyclable goods in their residence halls," Key said. "Students should empty the boxes into the appropriate bins in their halls. Students may recycle any kind of plastic, aluminum and paper."

Andrew Martin, a freshman majoring in history, said he supported any recycling initiative.

"Recycling is a great way to conserve resources and protect the environment," Martin said. "Besides, there are definite economic benefits, which make recycling a great option."

Key said the University has contracted with American Recycling in Birmingham to process the recycled goods.

"They [American Recycling] are providing the boxes for students at no charge," Key said. "The University and the SGA provide two staffers to pick up the goods, and the revenue from recycling the goods provides extra revenue, which will allow us to expand the program in the future."

Perry Tyner, a freshman majoring in clinical child psychology, said he thinks the program could be expanded to include more environmental education.

"The recycling program is great, but it seems to me that it would be more effective as part of a broader campaign," Tyner said. "Students could develop habits such as turning off lights when they leave a room to save even more energy than recycling does. If enough people cooperated, we could make a visible difference."

Key said anyone who had questions, comments or concerns should contact the SGA Senate's committee on environmental policy.

"If any student did not receive a recycling box, or if anyone has questions, they should contact the SGA via e-mail at sgaecc@gmail.com," Key said.