The Greenware program is a reusable dishware loan program aimed to help WashU reduce waste. Our inventory includes plates, bowls, cups, and utensils (forks, spoons, and knives). Anyone (WashU students, staff and faculty) is eligible to check out dishware. It’s as easy as that: Order, Use, Wash, Return!
GreenWare reservations are booked on a first-come, first-serve basis. The program is operated by Office of Sustainability Student Associates, so the service may not be available during times when the internship program is on a break.
GreenWare is primarily for Danforth Campus events, though any WashU students or employees are able to borrow the supplies for university functions, provided they are able to pick up and return to Schnuck Pavilion on the east end of the Danforth Campus.
How it Works
The GreenWare program is best suited for events with fewer than 50 attendees in an enclosed setting where it will be easy to retrieve the reusable items after use. Events over 50 people are considered on a case-by-case basis, after the consideration of several variables.
Request GreenWare by placing an order through our online order form. Let us know when your event is and how many of each item you need. We will be in contact with you within three days to confirm your order and set up pick up and drop off times for your order.
Event organizers must pick up and return supplies to Schnuck Pavilion on the East End of campus. Lightweight dollies are provided for transit if needed.
There is no charge for rental to student groups. Departments may utilize the program for free for one event per semester. For regular departmental users (more than one event per semester), we request a $20 departmental ID to help restock the program supplies as needed. *Fees may be applied for late returns and/or missing supplies.
Once your event is finished, wash dishes, and return. NOTE: with the recent switch in dining service partners on campus, we are working on figuring out a solution where we can continue to offer dishwashing services. However, for the time being, we will not be able to wash the dishes. This may impact whether or not borrowing these reusables is a good match for your event. Please ensure you have a plan for washing the dishes before returning.
Compost
Every order will also come with a compost disposal option for food and paper products. We have a few options that vary based on the size of the event:
- 5 gallon compost bin (recommended for events with fewer than 50 people with moderate plate waste and other compostables anticipated)
- 1-2 compost bags (recommended for events with moderate plate waste and bulky compostable items, like pizza boxes)
- For events serving on compostable serviceware, we recommend requesting a compost tote or waste station (fees apply; event organizer must request totes via Rent-A-Tote.)
Event Greening
If you want to take your event to the next level, apply for Green Event Certification! The Green Event Certification is a way to help groups to plan events with sustainability in mind. If you are using reusables, you are likely well on your way!