A Smarter Way to Do Takeout
If you have grabbed a meal on campus recently, you might have noticed something new: reusable containers. In 2024, Campus Dining launched a pilot program with ReusePass, a company that partners with universities to reduce single-use waste. About 20 universities, including Vanderbilt, Clemson, and Washington State University, already participate. Together, these campuses have kept roughly seven tons of waste out of landfills and saved tens of thousands of gallons of water in just one semester.
At Cal Poly, students can now choose to have their Grubhub orders packaged in ReusePass’ containers. After enjoying a meal, containers can be dropped off at return bins within ten days, which will then be washed and used by the next student.
Beyond Takeout Boxes
Reusability is just one part of a larger shift happening across campus. Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) Student Government funded 25 water bottle refill stations to encourage students to use non-disposable bottles.
Inside the University Union and Recreation Center, low-flow plumbing, motion-sensor LED lights, and solar-powered umbrellas all work to conserve energy and water. Even the buildings themselves, such as the Recreation Center’s green roof, help regulate temperature and support local plant life.
Sustainability in Small Details
Much of Cal Poly’s sustainability efforts happen behind the scenes. Custodial teams use microfiber cleaning supplies and eco-certified products to minimize waste. Many campus vehicles are now hybrid or electric, and most trash cans along Mustang Way are solar-powered. Solar-powered trash compactors use photovoltaic panels to charge an internal battery that powers the unit day and night. When waste reaches a set level, a sensor activates a motor that compresses the trash, creating more space for future disposal. The system repeats as needed, usually accommodating about 700 liters of loose waste before collection.
What You Can Do
Cal Poly’s sustainability efforts rely on student involvement. Here are a few ways you can contribute:
- Join ReusePass—return containers within 10 days
- Bring your own bottle or mug—refill stations are everywhere
- Skip single-use utensils
- Flip the switch—turn off lights when leaving shared spaces
Each of these choices add up to create a positive environmental impact on our campus. The more students adopt reusables into their routines, the more effective Cal Poly’s sustainability efforts become, and the closer the campus gets to making zero waste a reality.