By Iza Camposo
The Silliman University Student Government (SUSG) plans to revisit campus environmental guidelines with the University’s Board of Trustees after single-use plastics were reported in vending machines.
SUSG President Zild Jan Teves said that they will present a formal statement containing “sentiments of the student body regarding the concerns” in an upcoming BOT meeting.
“The continued presence of single-use plastic beverage bottles in some vending machines is something we recognize needs to be addressed, especially since our environmental policies discourage the use of PET plastics,” she said.
SU adopted its policies on the elimination of single-use plastics bags and Zero Waste initiatives last 2018.
It also follows Dumaguete City Ordinance No. 231, Series of 2011, an anti-plastic measure prohibiting businesses from using plastic shopping bags and styrofoam.
SU Asst. Prof. Joshua Soldivillo shared in a Facebook post last July 3 that plastic drinking water bottles were found inside various campus vending machines.
The SUSG Environment Committee also wrote that it will utilize all avenues to ensure that SU’s environmental policies “strictly adhere to all campus vendors and services.”
The concerns were brought up with SU Enterprise Development Specialist Michael Reyes during a meeting with a senior administrator last July 6.
SU Vice-president for Academic Affairs Lily Ann Bautista said that Reyes was asked to report on the issue, including its “location, content, and agreement.”
“He stated that the vending machines are well received by the students based on feedback. The University does realize that proper disposal needs to be emphasized,” she said.
However, Bautista clarified that the campus vending machines are operated by another party rather than owned by the University.
She also said that SU Facilities Management and Administrative Services Head Engr. Debonaire Mamot will ensure that trash bins are deployed and janitors are informed of proper segregation and disposal.
The SUSG President also said that they met with Reyes to discuss solutions for “reducing and eliminating” single-use plastics in campus vending machines.
The SUSG Environment Committee is also coordinating with the FMAS, Food Services, and Student Organizations and Activities Division to strengthen the implementation of campus waste management.
