In print | Published December 4, 2008 — Updated December 05, 2008 09:47

To the Editor:

We would like to say a thank you to the student body. Since putting up posters in Sharples two weeks ago, urging you to reduce your use of disposable cups, we have cut our paper cup usage in half.

But now, the bad news — plastic cups have become the new “to go” cup.  In the seven days before Thanksgiving break, over 100 cups went “missing.” 

While we most definitely appreciate your concern for the environment and applaud your desire to reduce your reliance on non-renewable resources, removing plastic cups from Sharples is not a viable option.  We would urge you to consume your beverage in Sharples. Think of it as an opportunity to spend ten extra minutes flirting with your crush, or, if you need to run, bring your own reusable mug. 

Sharples spends $15,000 per year to replace cups, silverware, and plates that have been taken from the cafeteria.   This is money that could be better spent.  We are working in conjunction with Sharples to initiate a program that would eliminate Swarthmore‘s use of disposable cups.  The program would work like this: Sharples would be stocked with reusable travel mugs.  A student would pick her mug up in Sharples and fill it with her morning coffee.  After stopping by Kohlberg for a refill that afternoon, extending her coffee buzz to finish that paper, she would then return the mug to be washed that evening when she came to Sharples for dinner.

Sharples is really excited to work with us on this program.  Unfortunately, we’ve set a bad example.  The loss of six crates of cups in a single week has caused the folks at Sharples to worry that we’re not responsible enough to make the travel mug program a success. This program will never get off the ground if we keep taking plastic cups from the dining hall. We urge you to join us in initiating this program. First, return any cups you took. Second, continue your efforts to reduce your paper cup usage. If you’re planning on taking a drink to go, remember to bring a travel mug. Lastly, we’d love to hear from you! This program is going to be a community effort. Leave Sharples a note on the napkin board or send us an email.

Amalia Feld ’12
Elizabeth Crampton ’09

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