On Monday, in-room recycling bins were distributed by Area Maintenance Supervisors throughout the residence halls on Alumni Lawn. Now, all residence halls, with the exception of Carmichael Towers and Highland Quad, are equipped with these bins.

"Now that the recycling bins have arrived, the students can effectively do their part - recycling cans, plastic bottles and paper in all areas, and cardboard in most areas," said Recycling Coordinator Jennifer Hackett. "In order for the program to be successful, students should keep in mind that it is a ǃÚsort-it-yourself' program once you get to the recycling bins outside near the dumpsters."

Hackett said recycling that is not sorted will be discarded.
Some students expressed excitement about Vanderbilt's increasing commitment to environmental awareness.

"I'm glad that Vanderbilt has finally started to widely distribute recycling bins. The amount of plastic that students use and waste is appalling and any effort to make the campus greener will help alleviate the current environmental crisis," said sophomore Lily Maxwell.

Despite the availability of opportunities to recycle, as Hackett noted, the success of the program depends on student participation.

"I like (the recycling bins) because I actually recycle, but I know a lot of people just got rid of them," said sophomore Julianne McGee.

Carmichael Towers and Highland Quad did not receive bins due to budget limitations.

Ann Nielson, Director of Housing Facilities, said, "To put recycling (bins) in all the rooms (on campus) is very expensive."

Nielson said these buildings were excluded because they already have active recycling programs that consist of large recycling bins in all of their lobbies.

If a student in a residential area, aside from Highland Quad or Carmichael Towers, did not receive a bin, the student should contact their Area Maintenance Supervisor (AMS) for one.