Sustainable Department of the Month – MSA

Each month the Sustainability Office will highlight a College department that is addressing sustainability as a part of their day to day operations. The MSA has been actively supporting the new policy on single-use plastics, making their team a perfect fit for Sustainable Department of the Month. We contacted Steve Kosh, Marketing and Communication Manager of the MSA, and here’s what he had to say: 

1) Why is the MSA supporting the new policy on single-use plastics?

The MSA is supporting the policy, because we recognize the impact that plastic bags and bottles have on the environment. The MSA has made a firm commitment to sustainability, and this is just another prime example of that commitment.

2) What actions is the MSA taking to support the new policy?

The MSA will be launching a full awareness campaign to support the new policy. We will be wrapping all of the filtered water stations around the campus with information about the campaign. Also, all of our food services employees have been educated on the campaign, and can explain to customers why the bottled water option no longer exists.

3) What has the student response been to the BYOB campaign?

I personally have been at a booth handing out the free multi-use water bottles to students, and so far the response has been overwhelmingly positive. The students that we have interacted with think it is a fantastic idea, and some even stated they wish we had started the initiative sooner.

4) How does this initiative fit in with other sustainable initiatives at the MSA?

Last year the MSA board initiated a program to ensure that all of our food services outlets were using compostable containers, serving utensils, etc. With one less item going to landfill, it ultimately reduces our carbon footprint and aligns with our current composting initiatives.