Choosing Renewable Packaging
Buffalo State Dining, managed by Chartwells, uses renewable packaging products in its dining operations. These include plant-based, recyclable and compostable cups, plates and bowls; and 100 percent recycled, post-consumer fiber napkins that are made using a chlorine-free bleaching process.
Reducing Food Waste
Tray-less dining minimizes food waste, encourages healthy eating through portion control, reduces the amount of water and energy used to wash trays, and limits the use of sanitizing soaps and chemicals.
Chartwells uses tray-less dining in conjunction with Project Clean Plate, an education program aimed at reducing food waste and creating awareness among students. Food waste is monitored at the disposal area, and an estimate is recorded and posted, showing Buffalo State students month-by-month results. The posted results educate students about the preventable nature of food waste.
Purchasing Food Responsibly
Chartwells purchases local produce when it is in season, reducing the environmental impact of transporting food. It also complies with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch program, which helps businesses to make seafood choices that support healthy oceans. In addition, Chartwells chooses cage-free shell eggs, milk products free of the rBGH hormone, and fair trade coffee and tea.