Student Papers
Saint Mary's students are exploring more earth-friendly alternatives to the cleaning products, plastic bags, paper products and ink currently used by the College. These "green" projects are part of a growing involvement by students in campus efforts to reduce its environmental impact.
In previous courses, students have conducted campus audits and research projects on paper waste, native plants, grounds maintenance and solid food waste.
In 2004, students discovered research on the harmful effects of polystyrene products. They found that these products were used regularly by Sodexho, the College food service, so they met with Sodexho's Director Matt Carroll and presented him with some sugar cane-based alternatives. Sodexho has adopted these alternatives insofar as they can,and are looking for vendors who can fulfill the large orders required by the school.
Previous efforts resulted in the sale of fair trade coffee at the student union and sweat shop-free apparel at the book store.
Saint Mary's was invited to present these student projects at the American Association of Colleges and Universities Conference on "The Civic Engagement Imperative: Student Learning and the Common Good" in November, 2005.
