Click here 
for the
UNCG Sustainability Page

 
 

Thanks for being a partner in

 

UNCG Dining looks for substantial impacts that
minimize waste and conserve natural resources, while also
providing a more sustainable solution.
Being "Tray-Less" in The Caf is one such action that promotes an
 immediate and tangible benefit in support of environmental stewardship.
 


ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS

  • Reduces our global impact on the environment
  • Increases awareness about food waste and the waste stream
  • Reduces chemical usage (detergents, rinse and drying agents) for washing trays  
  • Conserves energy by eliminating the need to heat water for trays
  • Conserves water by eliminating the need to wash trays
    • UNCG saves over 800 gallons of water daily!!
  • Reduces food waste, and the associated environmental footprint (grow, process, package and transport)
    •
      • up to 33% less food waste at UNCG

    SOCIAL BENEFITS
    • Encourages healthier eating habits through portion control, elevating health & wellness
    • Education and awareness of food waste
    • Feels more comfortable (like eating at home or at a sit-down restaurant)

     

     

     



    RECYCLING

    We recycle our used fryer oil to create biodiesel fuel

    We recycle paper and office supplies, aluminum, plastic and cardboard 

    We purchase 100% recycled napkins

    Prepared unused food products are donated to Greensboro Urban Ministries
     
    Compost -  UNCG Dining and the Sustainability Committee are currently working with the Office of Waste Reduction and Recycling to start composting



    PURCHASING

    Fair Trade Coffee is sold at Charlie's and The Atrium Java City. Click here for more information on Java City.

    Bulk dispensers are used when practical to reduce packaging.  Products available in bulk include juices, sodas, milk, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, and cereal.

    Proprietary food management software ensures that we forecast accurately to match food production to comsumption.

    We purchase local products from our vendors when available. Depending on the growing season, there may not be enough local products to support the demand. 

        - from April - September, up to 60% of our produce comes from local farmers
        - up to 80% of milk purchased is from local farmers
        - all Turkey products are from Carolina Turkey


    Reusable cleaning cloths are used to clean our locations rather than paper. 




    REDUCING OUR CARBON FOOTPRINT

    By examing our ordering process, we have been able to reduce our carbon footprint by ordering more, less often. The reduction in orders helps reduce the total amount of fuel consumed by our purveyors.