WHO ARE WE: Hello! We are seven dedicated Michigan State University students who are concerned about the impact our university is having on the environment. We feel that Michigan State University has the ability and responsibility to take stronger measures within its cafeterias to support sustainability. We are looking to represent students who feel the same.  

PROBLEM: At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Michigan State University (MSU) took measures to limit the spread of the virus and curb the pandemic. This included a multitude of changes, including the replacement of dishes and utensils with disposable dishes and utensils. While this was a necessary measure at the time, MSU has not updated safety guidelines that show COVID-19 does not pose a significant threat from surface contamination. With the continued use of disposable dishes and utensils, MSU has greatly increased the environmental impact that originates from the dining halls. MSU has the resources in place to transition back to reusable products in the dining halls, and we are asking they do so to create a more sustainable university.  

Further, students generally create a significant amount of food waste. Portions are decided by those who work in cafeterias rather than students themselves, creating excess food waste. With this, much of the leftover food and food waste is thrown away. Instead, food waste should be composted and efforts should be made to sustainably manage the waste that comes from MSU cafeterias. This would be a simple change for cafeteria workers. The addition of a compost bin next to the trash can would allow students to sort their own waste and therefore provide the opportunity for compost to be properly disposed of in a more environmentally friendly way. 

In sum, we are looking to make the dorm cafeterias more environmentally friendly and decrease food waste by petitioning the dorm cafeterias to return to reusable dishes and utensils and also offer composting options. Once completed, this petition will be submitted to the Residential and Hospitality Services at Michigan State University.

WHY PEOPLE SHOULD SIGN: All members of the community are impacted by climate change and the environmental conditions that result from a lack of sustainable practices. As a school that markets itself as being “green”, MSU should not be unnecessarily contributing to the single-use trash and composting issues. By signing this petition, you will encourage the decision-makers at the university to reconsider the policy and return to a more eco-friendly routine.