September 22 :: What's New in USM Dining?

Hello there!

USM Dining Services has been busy implementing new waste-reducing strategies and we need your help to make them work!

Bag the Plastic Bag

All of our operations are now plastic bag-free, meaning no more waste created. Please bring your own bag to shop in the C-Store or any of our other locations and help us reduce our environmental impact, one customer at a time. If you find yourself without a bag, we offer you durable, washable reusable bags that can be easily tucked into your backpack or briefcase and brought along whenever you go shopping. These bags are only $2.99 and are convenient for more than just on-campus shopping. Take them with you to the grocery store, the bookstore, or even use them to carry your books and notebooks around.

Single-use plastic bags are not only made of petroleum-based non-renewable natural resources, but the are also a huge pollution problem. Because they are lightweight they easily blow into the ocean, destroy the pristine beauty of beaches, and cause issues for the wildlife. They are often mistaken for jelly fish floating in the water and eaten by turtles and other marine animals, resulting in death. Here is an example of how large an issue plastic bag waste really is.

Do your part - take a reusable bag with you whenever you shop and reduce your waste.

Reusable To-Go Containers

These things are so cool!

Pick up your reusable to-go container in Portland at Woodbury Food Court or in Gorham at the Husky Hideaway Snack Bar. They cost only $3 then you never have to pay again! Get your food to stay or take-out in the container. Eat then return the empty container to the cashier and get a clean one. If you aren't ready to have more food yet, return the container to the cashier and they will issue you a raincheck. A raincheck is a small laminated card good for one clean container when you are next ready to eat on either campus. Brilliant!

Be sure to take care of the container when it is in your possession - we are not responsible for damaged or lost containers. Same thing with the rainchecks - if you lose it, you'll need to pay for a new container!

What are the benefits? You are helping reduce your waste by eliminating the need for disposable to-go containers. Also, the reusable to-go containers are more sturdy than disposables. You can reheat your food in the microwave in them and use them at home, too. They are durable and can be used 2,000 times! When they reach the end of their life or become damaged, they are recyclable.

Why wouldn't you want one? Play a part in helping USM GO GREEN!

Grow on,

Tyler