We work together to continually develop and implement sustainable solutions. Through Green Thread, our environmental sustainability platform, we bring innovative and efficient solutions to life. We are passionately focused on reducing the environmental impact within our operations. 

Here are just a few ways we work to make our campus more environmentally conscious:

Local Purchasing

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Did you know Dining Services sources food from many local farmers, growers and distributors? The list changes throughout the year depending on seasonality and availability. However, here is a sampling of a few of our partners:

  • Our milk, cottage cheese, and frozen yogurt are all sourced from
    Oak Farms Dairy in Dallas, TX
  • Texas Ruby Red Grapefruit
    and Collard Greens are from McAllen, TX
  • Cabbage from Hondo, TX

In support of our commitment to animal welfare, we’re proud to serve shell eggs from cage-free hens in both of our dining halls: 
Arnold Dining Commons and Lee at Umphrey Lee Center.


Recycling

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Dining Services partners with campus to recycle paper, cardboard, and plastic from all dining locations across campus. We are committed to minimizing our environmental footprint.

Reusables

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Our reusable mug program to reduce waste is temporarily discontinued as a precaution due to COVID-19.

Fryer Oil Recycling

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One hundred percent of dining services used fryer oil is recycled by Waste Management to be used for cattle feed and biodeisel.

Hydration Stations

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Dining Services offers several hydration stations throughout campus. Use the filtered water stations to refresh and refuel while helping to impact your carbon footprint.

Recycled Content Paper

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All dining locations are committed to using EcoLab daily green cleaning products in our operations to reduce the need for chemical based cleaning products and provide a healthy and safe learning environment.

Green Cleaning

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All dining locations are committed to using EcoLab daily green cleaning products in our operations to reduce the need for chemical based cleaning products and provide a healthy and safe learning environment.

Energy & Water Conservation

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We train our employees each semester on common energy and water conservation practices in order to conserve precious natural resources.