Recycling at Lewis

In the spirit of knowledge, wisdom, fidelity, justice, and association, Lewis University is committed to making a significant reduction in our ecological footprint on campus as well as the world. The Lewis University Recycling and Environment Program was inaugurated in August of 2007 to make this goal a reality.

A directive from the Lewis University Administration and President Br. James Gaffney initiated the expansion of the campus recycling program. The expanded program was made possible by a $60,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity which was written by Solid Waste Solutions Corp. who monitors waste and recycling on campus.

In order to support and develop the initiative, the Recycling and Environment Committee was formed, and is currently represented by students, staff and faculty. New members are always welcome to join the committee!

Since its commencement, the program has sponsored two major events: Greenapalooza (last November’s recycling kickoff event in the Field House), and the Earth Day Celebration event held in conjunction with the Lewis University Birthday Bash.

In other efforts to increase awareness and connectivity among an increasingly environmentally conscious community, the program has also sponsored an Arts & Ideas presentation "Recycling: Why Bother?” as well as a campus clean-up day in coalition with the “Stand Up for Your Rights” week.

So how can the Lewis University Recycling and Environment Program reduce our footprint?

Recycling saves oil, energy, trees, and water while transforming waste into resource, so join us to reduce waste and help preserve our environment. From Nov. 2007 to March 2008, Lewis University has already achieved the following environmental benefits:

• Saved 1,463 Tree seedlings grown for 10 years
• Saved 712 Million BTUs of energy use
• Saved 123 Barrels of oil
• Saved 5,729 gallons of gasoline
• Kept 10 passenger cars off the road
• Reduced car emissions by 52 Tons/Year of CO2

Please unite in Lewis University’s commitment to the three R's of waste management: recycle, reduce, and reuse.

And remember that everything you recycle makes a big difference, regardless how small it is!

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