The Adoption of Sustainable Lifestyles is grounded in the idea of sufficiency, and promoting sobriety in the use of resources and energy. Actions could include reducing waste and recycling, adopting sustainable dietary habits, greater use of public transport, active mobility (walking, cycling), and avoiding single-use items (e.g. plastic, etc.).
Current initiatives at St. Kate's that support this goal include:
Reusable to-go containers and tumblers in the Dining room. Sodexo has initiated a program where reusable containers can be used for any meal to go from the dining room. Anyone can participate in the program with a one time $5 deposit. The focus is to reduce the number of single use plastic to-go containers. Anyone can bring back their used reusable containers and pick up a clean reusable container for their next meal. Reusable tumbers are also available for use with our fountain beverages. Reusable tumblers are purchased by students and can be brought to use when purchasing fountain beverages. The focus is to reduce the amount of disposable cups used and reduce the amount of bottled beverages sold.
Composting and recycling on campus. In partnership with Student Senate, we have standardized three compartment waste stream containers on campus to help increase the amount of composting and recycling on campus. The Sustainability office has worked to create and post standardized signage to help with waste sorting. The goal is continue to educate the importance of composting and recycling while educating others on how to sort trash accurately.
Reducing food waste through Sodexo's Lean Path program. Sodexo has implemented Lean Path which helps monitor food waste and sets goals for continual improvment. This includes goals in food preparation, buying food just in time, and ensuring food production does not exceed demand.
Katies Closet: Katie's Closet is a collaboration between the Business and Fashion Department. Our focus is to promote sustainable shopping and close the gap between financial insecurity in obtaining professional wear. We are here as a resource for St Kate students, all our items are FREE. MISSION: To empower our students to achieve economic sustainability by providing professional work attire to launch their careers. VISION: a world in which all women achieve economic security and are treated with dignity and respect.