News

UI Convocation and Block Party to be “green gatherings”

August 06, 2010

Sustainability will be front and center at the kickoff of Welcome Week at The University of Iowa. On Sunday, Aug. 22, Convocation and President’s Block Party participants will find plenty of recycling and composting opportunities.

“We’re committed to reducing our ecological footprint for this event,” said Melinda Zuehlke-Woodard, program assistant for the Office of the President.  “Last year we accomplished a lot in terms of recycling and composting, and this year we are very excited to expand our efforts with help from the Office of Sustainability.  Through our conscientious planning with more compostable/recyclable products, more designated bins and more volunteers, we are sure to improve in this area year after year.”

The UI Dining Services and event planners for Sunday’s Welcome Week activities are going to great lengths to host a green event. The celebratory atmosphere will feature reusable signs, banners and bunting. Compostable plates, utensils and napkins will be used at the barbecue, and condiments will be served in bulk containers instead of single use containers.

 “Even the wrapper from the ice cream sandwiches will be compostable,” said Giselle Bruskewitz, UI junior and student intern with the Office of Sustainability. “We’ve set this up to make recycling and composting easy. Our volunteer recycle squad will play a large role keeping campus beautiful.”

According to Liz Christiansen, director of the UI Office of Sustainability, the University’s commitment to sustainability will be clear at Convocation and the Block Party.

“This is one of the first large events our newest students will attend­. What a great opportunity to put that commitment into action and set an example for their time here on campus.”

The University community is encouraged to volunteer to help welcome our students at Convocation and the President’s Block Party. Sign up for the recycling squad today!  https://survey.uiowa.edu/wsb.dll/187/VolunteerForm.htm

A full schedule of events is available at http://welcome.uiowa.edu/. To learn more about sustainability at The University of Iowa, look online, http://sustainability.uiowa.edu.

Questions or concerns can be directed to Giselle, Bruskewitz, student intern with the Office of Sustainability, gbruskew@gmail.com, or Amy Myers, associate editor for the Office of Sustainability, amy-myers@uiowa.edu.