Students from the University of Prince Edward Island are taking the lead on a project to reduce the amount of waste produced at the end of the school year by departing students.
The 2nd Annual “Dump and Run” is a project being organized by the UPEI Environmental Society. The goal of the “Dump and Run” project is to reduce the volume of waste generated by students living in residence and nearby rental accommodations as they move out when the school year draws to a close.
“I applaud the members of the UPEI Environmental Society for taking the initiative to organize this event,” says the Minister Responsible for IWMC Ron MacKinley. “Their effort sets a fine example for all citizens of Prince Edward Island.”
IWMC is partnering with the UPEI Environmental Society by offering in-kind technical and marketing support to the “Dump and Run” initiative.
“This project has three goals,” says Robbie Saada, President of the UPEI Environmental Society. “First, to reduce the amount of waste generated by students by recycling used or unwanted items that would otherwise be thrown out as waste. Second, to generate capital for non-profit environmental and social groups for further environmental initiatives. And third, to educate our fellow students and the public about the problems regarding consumption of natural resources and the need to conserve those resources for future generations.”
The “Dump and Run” will take place between April 10 and April 23. Students living in residence or off campus at Brown’s Court will be able to drop off any unused or unwanted household items to the UPEI Environmental Society on campus. Arrangements can be made to collect larger items by contacting the UPEI Environmental Society. Once these items have been collected, they will be made available for sale on Saturday, April 24, at the W.A. Murphy Student Centre. Any items left over from the sale will be made available to local non-profit organizations for re-use and recycling.
“The first step in responsible waste management is to reduce the amount of waste created,” said Gerry Moore, CEO of Island Waste Management Corporation. “Projects like the “Dump and Run” help reduce the volume of waste items for disposal in landfill by having items properly re-used and recycled. That’s better for the environment and the economy. It’s especially encouraging to see students taking the initiative to lead by example and help educate their peers about the benefits of waste diversion.”
To learn more about the 2nd Annual “Dump and Run” please contact the UPEI Environmental Society at upeienvsociety@gmail.com.