The Green Initiative begins campus-wide recycling program

The Green Initiative, a student-run, campus-wide recycling and eco-conscious program, has begun distribution of its recycling and compost bins throughout Lees-McRae academic buildings and offices.

Led by a group of students known as the Green Team, the program is also responsible for the recent addition of a community garden on campus. The Green Team includes students Avery Lineberger, Ivanna Knox, Leigh Ann Wilson and Dagny Palmer. 

The Green Initiative began when Palmer approached Outdoor Recreation Management professor Katie Wall with some ideas for improvements.

“I saw litter outside of Avery Residence Hall and with us living in one of the prettiest places I’ve ever been, I really wanted to do something about it,” Palmer said.

With funding from the BB&T Leadership Initiative grant and support from students, faculty and staff across campus, the Green Team began the campus-wide effort to honor the College’s motto, “in the mountains, of the mountains, for the mountains.”

So far, 62 blue recycling bins can now be found across campus in locations such as the Burton Center for Student Success, the School of Business and Management and various offices. During distribution, 34 wastebaskets were collected in replacement. Additionally, 25 personal compost bins were distributed to students, faculty and staff. Larger compost bins can also be found in the campus community garden.

Wall and the Green Team envision big things for the future of this initiative, including the expansion of composting and recycling across campus.

To get involved and learn more, visit the Lees-McRae community garden Wednesdays at 4 p.m. during their weekly meetings.