'Big Green Idea' Winner Annouced

A proposed shift to compostable, biodegradable trash bags was the winning “Big Green Idea” submission in a contest sponsored by the AQIP sustainability committee.

Andrea Dupras, a junior mechanical engineering technology major from Marquette, received an iPod Touch for her suggestion. She is pictured with Michael Broadway (Geography), committee chair.

“I did some Internet research and gathered some ideas,” said Dupras. “This seemed like the most feasible idea and the easiest to implement. I work in an office on campus and I see the custodians changing out plastic bags. With all the bags used on campus each day, it just seemed that there might be options that are better for the environment. My step-mom uses biodegradable bags, so I was familiar with them.”

Dupras said she found different brands online that are plant-based and do not use polyethylene in the production process.

According to Broadway, the ideas were judged on their “impact, feasibility and originality.” Brandon Sager (Facilities), who also sat on the committee, said Facilities is exploring the possibility of shifting to biodegradable bags. He is obtaining samples and pricing from vendors.

 

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Updated: May 2, 2008

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