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Over the past few weeks, returning students have questioned the lack of compost containers in the residence halls. 

Most of the responses to these questions have been mere speculation; what is certain is the absence of these containers.

The most recent information regarding composting in residence halls has come from Erica Spiegel, the Recycling and Solid Waste Manager at UVM. 

“The plan is to supply each residence hall front desk with small compostable bags,” Spiegel said. “UVM Recycling is now responsible for collecting all of the residence halls’ food waste.”

These cellulose-lined compostable bags, when filled, can be dropped off at any Food Waste Collection area, which can be found on the UVM Recycling website, who is now responsible for composting.   Additionally, UVM Recycling is offering work-study opportunities for students interested in assisting with the new program.

Composting is no longer the responsibility of the Eco Reps of UVM’s campus.

In the past, Eco-Reps, who were assigned to individual residence halls, were responsible for compost-both supplying a container in the trash rooms and emptying the containers when full. 

This method made the disposal of food waste convenient for students living in UVM residence halls.

In addition to offering work-study jobs to students who wish to explore their interests in composting, this transition will also greatly expand the availability of composting options throughout the residence halls on Athletic, Redstone, Central and Trinity campuses. 

This will allow Eco-Reps to focus more on peer education and campus sustainability projects.

The composting plan is set to launch October 1 and will proceed throughout the year. 

With the University taking over this responsibility, students hope to see a de