Published by Communications and Public Affairs 519 824-4120, Ext. 56982 or 53338

News Release

April 03, 2006

End-of-Semester Programs Help Students Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Students looking ahead to their end-of-semester move-out have new options when it comes to disposing of unwanted items, thanks to two campus initiatives.

Dump and Run 2006 is a program that aims to divert reusable items from the landfill and reduce the incidence of missorting of waste and abandoning of bulky items when students are moving after exams.

“This program helps reduce landfill, creates an accessible market for reusable items and gives students an opportunity to donate unwanted items to charitable organizations,” said Kathryn Hofer, U of G’s neighbourhood relations co-ordinator. “In the end, the campus community, our local charities and our neighbours will benefit through swapping and a reduction in move-out "dumping" of missorted waste and large items.”

Students are encouraged to drop off reusable items to the Central Student Association office until April 24. A “stuff swap” will be held in the University Centre courtyard April 3 to 14 for members of the U of G community to leave what they want and take what they need. Items arriving between April 14 and 24 will be donated to local charities.

Beginning April 3, off-campus students can also sign up for a large-item collection program that will take care of the removal of items like couches, patio furniture and appliances. “Depending on the condition of the items, they will either be donated to charity or taken to the landfill,” said Hofer, adding that this is a free service for students. To register for large-item collection, send e-mail to dumprun@uoguelph.ca or sign up in the UC courtyard. Student identification is required at the time of registration. Collection will take place between April 10 and 24.

From April 3 to 24, the City of Guelph is supplying students with free blue and green bags to encourage off-campus students to properly sort their waste according to the city’s Wet-Dry+ garbage system.

For more information about Dump and Run, contact Hofer at (519) 824-4120, Ext. 56276, or send e-mail to khofer@uoguelph.ca.

In addition, Meal Exchange is collecting clothing and non-perishable food items April 10 to 24. Bins will be located at all residence desks and in the UC courtyard, and donations will go to the Guelph Food Bank.

For more information, contact Meal Exchange at (519) 824-4120, Ext. 58212, or send e-mail to meal@uoguelph.ca.