Dining Celebrates a Year of Sustainability
Our dining partner Chartwells just released a review of their sustainability initiatives at UNC Charlotte for the 2023-24 academic year. From significant waste reduction efforts to educational programs fostering a greener future, there’s a lot to celebrate!
Moving Toward Zero Waste
Dining Services is committed to reducing food waste. Over the course of the year, Chartwells composted more than 24.3 tons of trimmings and unused portions from dining halls as part of Waste Not 2.0. This program minimizes the amount of waste that ends up in landfills while composted material enriches the soil.
Events and game days also saw improvements in the amount of trash diverted from landfills. The Zero Waste initiative added clearer and more engaging signage to guide fans in disposing of waste correctly. Volunteers from Chartwells and the Honors College sorted waste after games to ensure the maximum amount could be recycled and composted. Concessions and food trucks used recyclable drink containers and compostable food containers wherever possible.
An Education for the Future
Chartwells’ sustainability team always strives to incorporate education and learning opportunities into their initiatives, and last year was no different.
In Teaching Kitchens for making beeswax wraps and honey soap, students got to learn about the importance of local pollinators and the two beehives kept on campus.
Chef Chandra demonstrated a recipe for delicious pasta with pesto made from herbs grown in our hydroponic gardens, showing students the value of year-round, sustainable farming technology.
The Farmers Market, in partnership with the Levine Scholars Program and The Bulb, has become a vibrant hub for local produce and sustainability education. This operation not only supports local farmers but also provides students and the community with fresh, seasonal produce, reinforcing the value of locally-sourced food.
Looking Ahead
Allison Tietz, Sustainability Coordinator for Chartwells at Charlotte, said that the best part about being involved in sustainability is working with students. “It’s been an exciting year, packed with student events and the complete overhaul of our Zero Waste football initiative—leading to incredible success. Seeing students get involved and excited about sustainability has been inspiring,” said Tietz.
Tietz compiled the full sustainability review for the 2023-24 academic year.
We look forward to continuing this important work and exploring new ways to enhance our sustainability efforts. Here’s to another year of progress and positive impact at UNC Charlotte!