News Summary
During the recent student move-out week, Michigan State University’s Surplus Store and Recycling Center collected over 1.1 million pounds of materials. This initiative shows a commitment to sustainability and waste reduction within the university community. With over 100,000 pounds of reusable goods processed, MSU demonstrates how recycling and local businesses can work together for a greener future. The focus extends to innovative research in packaging and clean energy employment opportunities, further enhancing sustainability practices in East Lansing.
East Lansing – The Michigan State University Surplus Store and Recycling Center has successfully collected over 1.1 million pounds of various materials, including trash, recycling, surplus items, and compost during the recent student move-out week. This significant effort demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and waste reduction within the university community.
According to statistics shared on the MSU Surplus Store’s Facebook page, over 100,000 pounds of reusable goods were gathered and taken to the MSU Recycling Center for processing during the spring move-out. Items deemed unworthy of disposal were transferred to the Surplus Store for resale, providing affordable goods for students and the community while promoting recycling.
The MSU Surplus Store and Recycling Center, located at 468 Green Way, East Lansing, plays a crucial role in the university’s commitment to sustainability. Efforts like these not only aim to tackle waste management but also align with ongoing research and developments in sustainable materials.
Among those contributing to sustainable practices at the university is Laurent Matuana, a professor at MSU’s School of Packaging. Matuana is conducting research on monoplastics, which are easier to recycle compared to the commonly layered plastics found in many consumer products. His team’s focus includes developing both plant-based plastics and petroleum-based monoplastics that simplify the recycling process. These innovations may enhance the recycling rates and help create a circular economy.
In addition to advancements in materials, the state is looking toward a greener future in terms of employment. Michigan’s chief growth officer, Hilary Doe, has emphasized the potential development of 160,000 clean energy jobs in the upcoming decade. Various sustainable sites, including MSU’s organic farm, are identified as part of this growth strategy, reinforcing the importance of environmental stewardship in economic planning.
Furthermore, local businesses are also tapping into the reusable market. Kendra Schneider’s company, Takeout Takeout, is pioneering a laundry service for takeout containers and is planning to expand its initiatives to focus on reusable cups. Such entrepreneurial endeavors are integral to fostering a sustainable community.
Sustainable practices are further evidenced by events designed to promote environmental consciousness. The Recycle-Rama, organized by Julie Powers, has been a notable success, collecting an average of 200,000 pounds of materials at each occurrence, which helps mitigate electronic waste from ending up in landfills. Events like this play an essential role in educating people about the necessity of reducing and properly managing waste.
The MSU Earth Bash, held on April 12, 2025, celebrated Earth Day with diverse participation and activities designed to promote sustainability. Various interactive stations were set up by student organizations, each focusing on different sustainability initiatives. Activities included up-cycled crafts, seed bomb making, and guided tours of the recycling center, all encouraging engagement with environmental issues.
Additionally, representatives from the Pollinators United Sustainability Hub (PUSH) took the opportunity during the Earth Bash to promote awareness about native species and pollinator gardens, which are critical for maintaining healthy ecosystems. Enhancing public understanding of these initiatives underscores a collective responsibility toward environmental conservation.
Overall, the efforts of the Michigan State University Surplus Store and Recycling Center, alongside ongoing research, local businesses, and community events, highlight a strong commitment to sustainability and waste reduction in East Lansing. These initiatives not only support environmental goals but also foster community engagement and education surrounding the importance of sustainable practices.
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Additional Resources
- WLNS: MSU Collects 1.1 Million Pounds of Trash
- Wikipedia: Recycling
- Lansing State Journal: MSU New Plastic Recycling
- Google Search: Sustainable Practices
- WLIX: Recycle-Rama Lightens Load for Residents
- Google Scholar: Sustainability Initiatives
- WLNS: Behind the Scenes at MSU Recycling Center
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sustainability
- The State News: MSU Earth Bash Celebrates Sustainability
- Google News: Clean Energy Jobs
