With Thousands Of Students Moving In Or Out, UW Tries To Minimize Waste

UW Moving Days took place again in Madison to keep items that can be reused or recycled out of landfills, as thousands of students move in or out of their apartments this week.

Last year, about 24 tons of materials – including couches, televisions, and clothing – were collected for reuse and recycling as part of the event. This year, Frank Kooistra, who is part of the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Office of Sustainability, says he thinks it’s possible they’ve already hit that number.

This is also the second year of an exchange program called Donate & Take, where students can donate unwanted items at specific locations and, if they see something they like, they can take it for free. Kooistra said this program is popular.

“It’s actually been a positive addition to our program,” he says.

Gayle Westfall coordinates member services at the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Madison. The charitable organization is one of the event’s partners, and the items it collects ultimately help support those in need. Other partners include the university’s WE Conserve program and Goodwill.

Westfall noted that the program is good for people in need and students. “It’s really a win-win situation for everyone involved,” she said.

UW-Madison junior Max Leib entered the parking lot where one of the St. Vincent de Paul trucks sat Wednesday, carrying a box. He donated canned goods and furniture that he didn’t need anymore.

“It’s either going in the garbage or going here, so I’d rather take it to someone who could use it,” he said.

UW Moving Days ended Wednesday. Similar events exist for students during moving periods at other universities including UW-Green Bay and UW-La Crosse.