Waterloo - Starting this semester, Laurier’s Food Services has introduced a new, reusable plastic food container to reduce the amount of waste produced from cardboard takeout containers.

The reusable “eco-takeout” containers cost $5. Regular, disposable takeout containers will still be available for a cost of 25¢, an “eco-tax” that will fully recover the cost of the disposable container.

“This program has been led in a big way by the students,” says Dan Dawson, director: student services. “They are very committed to environmental initiatives and this program is a relatively easy way for students to reduce their carbon footprint.”

To ensure the reusable containers remain hygienic, students are able to drop off their eco-takeout container at any Food Services outlet on campus to be washed. In exchange they will receive a properly washed eco-takeout container or a card that will allow them to take an eco-takeout container the next time they need one.

In addition, anyone who brings their own reusable mug for coffee or tea will get 10¢ off the cost of their drink.

The eco-takeout container program was the result of collaboration between the Wilfrid Laurier University Students’ Union and the university’s Food Services department.