Forward Magazine August 2024

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Preparing Your Mind and Body for Success Ready, Set, Achieve!

Embracing Mental Health Through An Intersectional Lens Inclusive Healing

Spreading Awareness on World Lung Cancer Day Clearing the Air

Embracing The Green Horizons Over Greener Horizons

Exploring The Environmental Impact of Recycling Paperless Trails

forward

Monthly Mile Marker

Hey there, Luxeathoners! As we gear up for life’s ultimate marathon, let’s make sure we’re fueling both body and mind for the journey ahead, especially as we tackle those crucial first few miles.

This month, we’re all about diving into the goodness of wholesome eats, staying hydrated, and finding energizing activities. When we prioritize good nutrition, we’re arming ourselves with the stamina and grit needed to face life’s challenges head-on. Just like prepping for a big race, this time is all about getting us ready to handle whatever life throws our way!

Monthly Wellness Momementum

This month, we unveil our Think Before You Drink campaign for our Monthly Wellness Momentum. As we begin the marathon of life, it’s essential to start with good habits; there is no better habit than staying hydrated! Think Before You Drink educated our campus community about the sugar content in soda, coffee, and energy drinks while highlighting the benefits of choosing water. During August, don’t just grab a quick iced coffee to stay motivated - Think Before You Drink!

Monthly Endurance Eats

Peach season is at its peak in August, and there is more than enough to fuel everyone throughout this section of the Luxeathon! The delicious fruit is low in calories and contains many essential vitamins and minerals, such as potassium, fluoride, and iron. When you’re feeling low this month, pick up a juicy peach and bite into Luxeathon Living.

Sprint Print: Life Skills to Lower Your Carbon Footprint

Let’s Get Digital and reduce our collective carbon footprint this month by using digital tools instead of traditional paper and pen. Throughout August, we’ll learn about the benefits of going paperless and how to stay connected to the Luxe Life and the Luxeathon with just the click of a button.

Ready, Set, Achieve

PREPARING YOUR MIND AND BODY FOR SUCCESS

It’s that time again! Whether you’re transitioning into college for the first time or returning for another semester, it’s essential to prepare your mind and body for the Luxeathon™. Your routines might differ from last year, and that’s perfectly okay. Everyone is running their race at their own pace. The key is to replace old habits with more beneficial ones to revitalize yourself and cross the finish line into the Winners’ Circle.

Check out these tips and tricks to start getting ready and set to achieve this school year!

GET SOME SLEEP

With extra-curricular activities, a full course load, and socializing with friends; sleep can be the furthest thing from your mind, and sacrificing it may seem like the only option. Sleep is crucial for preparing yourself for success. To achieve that success, developing and committing to a nighttime routine is a great way to improve your sleep. These options could look like avoiding electronics one hour to an hour in a half before bedtime, leaving an activity an hour before, coming up with a “nighttime wind down” routine, and/or avoiding caffeinated drinks before bedtime. All these options promote a good night’s rest which will consequently improve your quality of sleep.

PLAN YOUR DAY, THEN CONQUER IT!

Having a plan in any aspect of life is important and helps you conquer the goal you’ve set for yourself. Develop a plan where you can relax in the day after completing a big task. This could be doing something that enhances your quality of life, shopping at your school’s On the Go store, or even planning something for yourself that has no relation to school. There are many ways to break a tedious, dull routine, which will leave you with something to look forward to.

BECOME A GOAL-SETTER

How are you tracking your progress?

Semester goals are the only right answer setting up goals to ensure you’re on track is another great way to conquer the semester. An easy way to do this is, while you’re planning your day put down some things you want to accomplish in the day, week, or even semester. Once you have that vision, make it plain. The hardest part about completing your goals is getting it out of your head. Before you know it, you’ll be halfway finished with the semester and think “My goals are halfway accomplished, and the semester isn’t even complete.” Tracking those small wins and losses gives you a bird’s eye view of what you can do and what you may need a little more assistance with.

BUILD YOUR RESUME

This is the perfect time to start or add to your academic resume. Build as you go! As a new student on your college campus, you most likely will join school clubs, volunteer at events, or even land that perfect internship! It is crucial to have all those things listed on your resume as you go because as the days, months, and years go on it will start getting harder to remember all the great things you accomplished during undergrad.

EAT FOR THE SOUL

Find your dining halls, retail locations, and quick shops. Locating these buildings on campus during the first week of classes is very important! Eating a well-balanced meal every day will significantly increase your productivity in your personal life and academic career. There are multiple dining facilities throughout your campus and there is an option for everyone. Next time you walk to your dorm or a friend’s dorm count how many buildings you pass that serve food. You’ll be surprised.

These are just a few tips that will help prepare your mind and body for success. Running the Luxeathon™ looks different for a lot of people but if you start incorporating these tips into your daily life you will start to see a substantial change because of it.

Embracing Mental Health Through An Intersectional Lens Inclusive Healing

“Strength lies in differences, not in similarities” -Stephen Covey

Take a moment to look at the people around your campus and notice the differences you may see. Everyone is running their own Luxeathon™. From the person sitting in the Student Center to the others enjoying a tasty meal in the dining hall and the person rushing towards their next obligation, everyone is moving at their own pace. Imagine what other sociological factors differ from yours. As we embrace the beauty of diversity, it is important to recognize how our differences impact how we navigate throughout the world and how it impacts our mental well-being.

Intersectionality is a sociological word, coined by a black woman named Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw in 1989. Intersectionality by Merriman-Webster definition is “the complex, cumulative way in which the effects of multiple forms of discrimination (such as racism, sexism, and classism) combine, overlap, or intersect especially in the experiences of marginalized individuals or groups”. In simpler terms, as stated in the article ‘Intersectionality 101: What is it and Why is it Important?’ written by Birdie Taylor “Intersectionality acknowledges that everyone has their own unique experience of discrimination and oppression and we must consider everything and anything that can marginalize people- gender, race, class, sexual orientation, physical ability, etc.”

Everyone has many different identities and sociological and economic differences. We all belong to various groups. From race, sexual orientation, education, and other factors our lives are impacted by these multiple factors. Minorities are a group of individuals impacted by these factors daily. This could look like increased levels of stress or daily challenges in everyday life, which unfortunately and negatively impacts African Americans leading to rising concerns about mental health.

Did you know that Poverty levels affect mental health status? “African Americans living below the poverty levels are twice as likely to report serious psychological distress.” (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health)

In college, students are truly figuring out who they are, and where they want to be after college. In addition to studies and being involved on campus, many students may be dealing with internal and personal factors that can impact their academics. These factors can lead them to struggle to stay motivated in school, which can also lead to self-doubt, increased stress levels, and poor mental health. According to an annual survey from Healthy Minds, 96,000 U.S. minorities, first generation, LGBTQIA students across 133 campuses during the last academic year, 44% of students reported symptoms of depression, 37% said they experienced anxiety and 15% have considered suicide. This is another way that intersectionality plays a role in everyday living while in college. Mental health is becoming a crisis on college campuses and it’s important to have conversations on how we are the same in some ways and embrace the ways we are all different.

We all have different identities, are running different marathons, and belong to multiple groups that face challenges. Fortunately, there are ways to navigate these issues for better understanding or to be a resource to someone who may feel isolated, simply because of who they are. Joining a group with one similar factor that you have could be a way to understand others. Talking to your school’s therapist or wellness center is also an option for navigating through intersectionality or speaking to someone you trust.

Campus Dining by Thompson Hospitality values the beauty of diversity on college campuses and encourages you to embrace your unique intersections proudly, using them to make a positive impact in the world.

CLEARING THE AIR

Spreading Awareness on

World CancerLung Day

Leading a winning Luxe Life starts with taking care of your health and wellness. Today, we’re here to clear the air on some common misconceptions about lung cancer, particularly among college students. Contrary to popular belief, lung cancer isn’t just a disease of smokers or older adults; it can affect anyone, regardless of age or lifestyle. Despite significant advancements in research and treatment, many myths persist, leading to unnecessary stigma and a lack of proper awareness. It’s essential to educate ourselves with the facts and promote a more informed and compassionate perspective on this serious health issue. Let’s debunk these myths together and spread awareness, so you can reach the finish line of your Luxe Life with these tips.

Did you know that you can survive two days without water, and you can survive two days without food, but only two minutes without air? Lungs are essential for living and breathing, playing a crucial role in the respiratory system. The main job of the respiratory system is to bring oxygen into the body and remove waste gases, ensuring that our cells receive the oxygen they need to function properly. Let’s talk about common misconceptions!

Misconception #1: Smoking alternatives to cigarettes are not a contributing factor to lung cancer

Misconceptions about lung cancer often include the belief that smoking marijuana, using vapes, and smoking cigars are not contributing factors. In reality, marijuana and pipe smoking may raise your lung cancer risk because, like cigarettes, they expose you to harmful substances that increase the risk of cancer in the mouth, throat, lungs, and esophagus. Similarly, vapes are not a safe alternative; they contain harmful chemicals that can damage lung tissue and potentially lead to cancer. Moreover, Dr. Gabriela Pichardo, a board-certified doctor in internal medicine from WebMD, states that “cigars in particular make consumers much more likely to get heart disease and lung disease.” Dr. Pichardo also mentions that many people who smoke marijuana could be at even higher risk due to the potential for deeper inhalation and holding smoke in the lungs longer, thereby increasing exposure to carcinogens.

Misconception #2: Lung Cancer Cannot Be Detected

In 2001, The American Cancer Society revised its recommendation for preventive testing in asymptomatic individuals who are at risk for lung cancer. This is due to the growth and advanced technology of CT testing and chest X-rays. The ACS has since emphasized the importance of at-risk individuals making informed decisions and seeking testing.

Misconception #3: Only Older Adults Develop Lung Cancer

A prevalent misconception suggests that only older adults develop lung cancer, but this is far from accurate. Dr. Fred R. Hirsch, the executive director of the Center of Excellence for Thoracic Oncology at Mount Sinai’s Tisch Cancer Institute in New York City, dispels this myth. He emphasizes that lung cancer is not exclusive to older demographics. In fact, Dr. Hirsch highlights a concerning trend: an increasing number of younger individuals, especially women under the age of 50, are being diagnosed with lung cancer. This underscores the importance of understanding that lung cancer can affect people of all ages and demographics, necessitating awareness and proactive measures for early detection and prevention.

Debunking misconceptions about lung cancer is vital for fostering greater awareness and understanding of this disease. By dispelling myths about its causes, demographics, and detectability, we empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health. Let’s remember that lung cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or lifestyle, and early detection through screening can significantly improve outcomes. Through continued education, advocacy, and support, we can work towards reducing the burden of lung cancer and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. Together, let’s strive for a future where lung cancer is both treatable and preventable, paving the way for a healthier tomorrow.

Now that we know a few misconceptions about lung cancer, the most important thing is prevention and maintaining lung health. Here are a few tips for lung maintenance and prevention:

Avoid Smoking

Smoking is one of the major causes of lung disease and over time cigarette smoke destroys lung tissue and may trigger changes that grow into cancer.

Get Regular Check-ups

Getting check-ups periodically even when you’re feeling well can prevent any underlying diseases, especially lung disease which sometimes can go undetected.

Exercise Regularly

Exercising regularly can be a key part in maintaining healthy lung function. Exercising is an easy way to keep your lungs healthy because it reduces your risk of serious illness, including lung cancer.

Water WondersUNVEILING THE MAGIC OF HYDRATION

In the realm of health and wellness, hydration reigns supreme as a cornerstone of vitality and well-being. As we navigate our individual paths toward a luxe lifestyle, the significance of proper hydration cannot be overstated. Like a magician’s wand, water has the power to transform our well-being, offering a myriad of benefits that elevate our everyday experiences. From enhancing cognitive function to boosting skin radiance, the wonders of hydration are as dazzling as they are essential. Delve into the enchanting realm of hydration, uncovering its secrets and unlocking the key to a more vibrant and luxurious existence.

According to the website, MedicalNewsToday, a website whose purpose is to give in-depth health information and the latest in medical research, stated 15 benefits of drinking fresh, plain water. A few of those benefits are:

Water Lubricates the Joints

There’s a tissue in our body called cartilage that contains around 80% water. Dehydration can reduce the joints’ shock-absorbing ability leading to joint pain.

Water Helps Form Protective Coatings in the Body

Water also plays a crucial role in producing saliva and mucus, essential for digestion and maintaining moisture in our mouth, nose, and eyes to prevent friction and damage. Additionally, water contributes to oral hygiene by keeping the mouth clean and preventing tooth decay.

Water Aides in Digestion

Our blood is more than 90% water and carries oxygen to different parts of the body, such as the digestive system. Not drinking enough water can lead to dehydration and digestive problems, which can increase the risk of heartburn and stomach ulcers. A lack of water can also cause blood to become thicker which could raise blood pressure.

Water Aides in Weight Loss

Water aids in weight loss by increasing metabolism, suppressing the appetite, and promoting the body’s natural fat-burning processes. Staying adequately hydrated can also prevent water retention, helping to reduce bloating and promote a leaner appearance.

As we explore the benefits of hydration further, it becomes clear that integrating it into our daily routines is crucial. Just as a skilled athlete prepares meticulously for their event, mastering hydration techniques is essential for succeeding in our own Luxeathon™ of life. So, let’s transition from understanding the benefits to practical strategies, ensuring that we seamlessly integrate hydration into our everyday routines for optimal performance and well-being.

Take a water bottle with you everywhere you go.

Try infused water for added benefits and an even better taste.

Instead of that morning cup of coffee or soda (or pop), replace it with water. This helps the brain function properly and improves the brain’s thought process.

Cut out sugary beverages and infuse them with nature’s candy, fruit. Muddle the fruit into water for added flavor.

Start a “water routine” by drinking water after each small task.

In the grand tapestry of our Luxeathon™, hydration emerges as a vital thread, weaving through every aspect of our lives with its transformative power. By embracing the magic of water, we not only unlock its countless benefits for our bodies and minds but also pave the way for a more vibrant and fulfilling existence. Let us raise our glasses to the journey ahead, where every sip brings us closer to our goals of vitality, wellness, and ultimate luxury. With hydration as our steadfast companion, we stride confidently towards victory in our Luxeathon™ of life, knowing that true success begins with nurturing our most precious resource—ourselves.

Consuming the minimum recommendation of water helps your body work better and improves your overall health. For more information about ways to consume more water and to find out if you’re getting enough for your body’s needs, talk to your healthcare professional.

The Chemistry of Flavor

From the Track

The Very First Time

Wellness Momentum

Hydration Hacks

Sustainable Style Where Can I Find It?

Hot Topics At the Crossroads

Get Into The Infused Water Craze Refreshing Revival

Staying hydrated through the Luxeathon™ is crucial for health and performance. It’s essential to balance water, life, and your overall well-being. Despite water being necessary for your bodily functions, many people dislike the taste of water. According to Prnewswire.com, “Nearly 1 in 3 Americans say they dislike the flavor of tap water.” Therefore, many people choose to rely on sports drinks for hydration. However, according to Unity Point Health’s website, “The recommendation is adults and children should only have sports drinks during extended and heavy exercise that lasts longer than an hour.” Although most people dislike the taste of water, there are other water alternatives.

Infused water, also known as flavored water or detox water, is fresh and plain water infused with fruits, herbs, or vegetables without the added sugars, calories, or artificial flavorings. There are many benefits to drinking infused water, and the most important is that it increases your natural water consumption.

By adding fruits, vegetables, and herbs to your water, it can give you a boost in energy throughout the day. Moreover, the added natural flavors can satisfy your taste buds and contribute to the feeling of fullness, curbing your appetite. Swapping sugary drinks for infused water is a perfect way to hit your daily water intake goal. Most health officials recommend consuming 4 to 6 cups of water daily, but this goal can change depending on how much water you intake from other food and beverage sources.

HGTV Health and Wellness has a plethora of fun-infused water recipes perfect for everyday use. If you are looking for a way to sweeten up your water, check out these recipes below!

Making infused water is simple!

Chop, slice, or cube freshly washed vegetables, fruit, or herbs, then add half cup to one full cup of the washed ingredients into a quart of fresh, plain water. Refrigerate the water overnight to allow the flavors to infuse. For even more flavor, herbs can be added to the water, or the ingredients can be muddled. Also, keep in mind that fruits and vegetables will last about 2 to 3 days before they start breaking down.

Do you have a favorite infused water you like in your dining hall? Post it on social media and hashtag it with your school’s name along with your favorite infused water. Happy Drinking!

Lemon Water

Lemon Water is the most common way to increase your daily intake. Many people start their day with hot water and lemon because of all the different health benefits. Whichever your preference is, one thing is for certain, lemon water keeps you hydrated and can help with cravings by curbing them.

Strawberry and Cucumber Water

Strawberry and Cucumber Water is another refreshing option. It offers numerous health benefits, including boosting hydration, providing essential vitamins and antioxidants, and supporting heart health. It’s fruity, fresh, and a great warm weather go-to.

Orange and Fennel Water

Orange and Fennel Water is another beverage that can be enjoyed hot or cold. Fennel is in the family of celery, parsnips, parsley, and carrots and most people mistake the herb for celery or dill because of its physical characteristics. People enjoy this infused water because of the tanginess from the orange and licorice taste of the fennel.

Pineapple, Mint, and Ginger Water

If you’re a pineapple lover, then this water is for you. Pineapple, Mint, and Ginger Water is a fruity water that will perk up any plain water. This infused water has many health benefits; including mint’s ability to aid with digestion, speed up the metabolism, and settle the stomach. Ginger and pineapple together can help strengthen the immune system and protect the body from infections and diseases.

Cucumber Water

Cucumber Water, much like lemon water, is another common way to increase your daily water intake. This water is also a hit in the dining halls. Students usually avoid the soda machine when this water is out on display.

Berry Water

Berry-Infused Water is a simple water to make with whichever berries you choose. This infused water may strengthen immunity as well as help with brain health.

Peachy Keen Dorm Room Recipies

an array of other health benefits.

If you want some fun ways to incorporate peaches into your diet, check out these recipes that you can make from the comfort of your dorm. You can find most of these ingredients in your campus On the Go Store.

INGREDIENTS

Canned peaches (in juice, not syrup)

Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)

Granola

Honey (optional)

Cinnamon (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

Peach Parfait

Drain the canned peaches and dice them into small pieces. You can also mash them slightly if you prefer a smoother texture.

In a glass or bowl, start by layering some diced peaches at the bottom.

Add a layer of Greek yogurt on top of the peaches. Use enough to cover the peaches entirely.

Sprinkle a layer of granola over the yogurt. This will add crunch and texture.

Repeat the layers until you reach the top of your glass or bowl, ending with a final layer of granola. Drizzle honey or sprinkle cinnamon for added flavor.

Your peach parfait is now ready to be enjoyed! Perfect for a snack or breakfast item. You can eat it right away or refrigerate it until cool. Next time try out this recipe with other fruit!

INGREDIENTS

2 ripe peaches, diced (Fresh or canned)

1 small red onion, finely chopped

1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Juice of 1 lime

Salt and pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

Peach Salsa

Wash and dice the peaches. Finely chop the red onion, jalapeño pepper, and cilantro.

In a bowl, combine the diced peaches, chopped red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.

Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined.

Your peach salsa is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, as a dip with tortilla chips, or as a refreshing side dish. This can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

INGREDIENTS

1 can (15 ounces) sliced peaches in juice, drained

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup milk

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Ground cinnamon (optional, for garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS

Drain the sliced peaches from the can and spread them evenly in a microwave-safe baking dish or a large microwave-safe mug.

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Pour over peaches.

Microwave the peach cobbler on high for 3-4 minutes, or until the batter is set and cooked through. Cooking time may vary depending on your microwave’s wattage.

This microwavable peach cobbler is a quick and yummy comfort dessert that is satisfying and won’t break the bank. Serve warm, pairs well with ice cream! Enjoy!

Peach Cobbler

Embracing the Green Horizons

In today’s eco-conscious world, sustainability is not just a buzzword – it’s a vital commitment that businesses and individuals must uphold. At Campus Dining by Thompson Hospitality, we’re proud to lead the charge in this movement by leveraging innovative digital solutions to minimize our environmental footprint while enhancing guest experience.

Our transition to digital methods extends beyond mere convenience – it’s a fundamental shift towards sustainability. One of our cornerstone initiatives is the digitization of communication with our guests. Through platforms like Popl wristbands, we’ve bid farewell to traditional paper menus and business cards, opting instead for digital alternatives that streamline information sharing while drastically reducing paper waste. But our digital journey doesn’t end there. We’ve integrated NFC technology to create a seamless connection between guests and our dining hub, where they can access menus, THTV, promotions, event calendars, and contact information for every manager with ease. This centralized digital platform not only enhances convenience but also minimizes our reliance on paper-based materials.

In our commitment to sustainability, we’ve replaced traditional signage with dynamic digital screens in our dining halls and retail locations. These screens enable real-time updates on upcoming events, promotions, pricing, and menus, eliminating the need for printed materials and reducing waste. But sustainability isn’t just about environmental impact – it’s also about fostering meaningful connections with our guests. That’s why we’ve launched initiatives like “Our DMs Are Open,” inviting guests to share feedback and engage with us via social media platforms. Additionally, our DeLuxe Squad VIP membership offers exclusive benefits, including staying connected via text message alerts, ensuring our guests remain informed and engaged at all times.

By embracing digital solutions and fostering community engagement, we’re not just redefining the dining experience – we’re paving the way towards a more sustainable future. We invite you to join us on this journey towards sustainability and discover the countless ways digital innovation can make a positive impact on our planet. Together, let’s embrace sustainability and create a brighter, greener tomorrow.

Did you know? The average person uses 16 tons of carbon dioxide and methane by our actions yearly. There are many ways you can reduce your carbon footprint in your everyday life, here are some ways you can start:

1

Take A Walk

Instead of driving to the dining hall or that class that is a few buildings over, walk there a few times out of the week, which will also reduce carbon emissions. Reduce

4

Water Usage

Reducing your water usage is another excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint. Taking shorter showers, not washing your vehicle as often, turning off the hot water, and using cold water to brush your teeth all play a huge role in conserving energy and water.

2

Reduce Food Waste

Reducing your food waste in the dining hall is how you can contribute to a greener tomorrow, today. Only putting enough food on your plate helps combat food waste. Visit your school’s science department to find out more ways to help reduce your carbon footprint and how you can contribute to making Mother Earth a place for everyone to live and enjoy.

3

You can also help the environment by increasing your use of videoconferencing tools, such as Skype, Zoom, Google Meet, or Facetime, by using one of the tools, this helps in reducing carbon emissions.

5

Reduce Energy Usage

This can be done in your dorm, house, or office space. You can do this by turning off unnecessary lights, using energy-efficient light bulbs, unplugging your devices when not in use, and turning on an energy saver in your device’s settings. Use Video Conferencing

Paperless Trails

Exploring the ImpactEnvironmental of Recycling

Living the Luxe Life is more than enjoying wealth and leisure; it’s about making a lasting impact on the earth, leaving it better for future generations. The sheer volume of daily materials often leads to unavoidable waste accumulation, and how we manage this waste directly affects the quality of the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the health of our land. Building a clean and sustainable community begins with the simple yet powerful principles of reducing, reusing, and recycling.

According to the Northeast Recycling Council, recycling can be traced back to Ancient Japan in the 9th century. They began recycling paper as they learned to produce it. In what we know as the United States, in 1690, recycling started to trend in the New World with the repurposing of linen, cotton rags, and paper to help with the increased production of books and newspapers. The slogan, “reducing, reusing, and recycling” (also known as the Three R’s), gained popularity around World War II and into the 1950s, according to RecycleNation.com. The economic boom increased trash and litter due to using and producing single-use items. To better understand different ways to reduce waste on your campus and beyond, it is essential to know the three

Reducing waste means cutting down on the trash we generate. Producing new items emits greenhouse gases and uses valuable resources. By reducing, we prevent pollution and conserve materials. Here are some easy ways to practice reducing every day, starting in the dining hall:

When shopping for dorm essentials, buy only what you need and donate unused

Opt for used items, like shopping at thrift stores or buying used books for classes. Small changes can make a big difference in creating a sustainable future.

REUSE

Learning to reuse items benefits the environment in many ways. Reusing involves finding new uses for items instead of discarding them. Here are some simple ideas to help you get started:

Donate or repurpose items. For example, use an old cotton t-shirt as a hair towel or cut up an old towel to make washcloths or cleaning rags.

Save plastic containers from restaurant leftovers to store other food items.

Consider selling items you no longer need. What might be trash to you could be treasure to someone else.

By reusing, you not only help the environment but can also save money and even make a profit. Don’t think of it as trash, but as multi-use treasure.

RECYCLE

Recycling is the last and most used process of waste management. Recycling consists of collecting and processing materials that would otherwise be thrown away as trash and turning them into new products. Cardboard boxes, milk jugs, aluminum, and newspapers are examples of items that can be disposed of in a recyclable bin. Plastic bags from your On The Go store on campus or take-out can be recycled and reused. Those same plastic bags can be recycled as shower caps or conditioning caps. Newspapers are one of the most recycled items. When you recycle newspapers, they are often transformed into egg cartons, kitty litter, construction paper, and even a newer newspaper. The more items are recycled, the more energy can be saved. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, also known as the EPA, recycling ten empty plastic bottles can save enough energy to power a laptop for more than 25 hours.

Recycling is the final and often most used step in waste management. It involves collecting and processing materials that would otherwise be trash and turning them into new products. Items like cardboard boxes, milk jugs, aluminum cans, and newspapers can go in the recycling bin. Here are some tips to make recycling more personal and effective:

Recycle plastic bags from campus stores or take-out by using them as shower caps or conditioning caps.

Newspapers are highly recyclable and can be turned into egg cartons, kitty litter, construction paper, or new newspapers.

Remember, the more we recycle, the more energy we save. For instance, recycling ten empty plastic bottles can save enough energy to power a laptop for over 25 hours. Small actions make a big difference! As you journey through campus, make it your mission to reduce, reuse, and recycle items. It makes a huge difference, and your campus community will thank you. You’re also doing your part to help sustain the environment for future generations.

Marketing Contacts

Daniela-Gabrielle Smallwood, Vice President of Marketing and Programming

daniela.smallwood@thompsonhospitality.com (571) 446–7430

Stacey Gibson, Director of Retail Marketing

stacey.gibson@thompsonhospitality.com (571) 524–8566

Editorial Staff

Gina Godwin, Creative Director

Yolanda Waters, Chief Editor

Heaven Smallwood, Editor

Jacquii A. Tilley, Contributing Writer

Tess Mazzucchelli, Graphic Designer

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