How are the sprinklers managed at Eckerd?

The sprinklers run on a timer system and use 100% reclaimed water. At the current time, the costs of an irrigation control system outweigh the benefits of saving reclaimed water. We are looking into alternatives, but unfortunately the availability of grants for reclaimed water-saving measures is extremely limited. 

What happens with the food waste from Eckerd?

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, all unserved food would be boxed up and brought to a local food bank through the Food Recovery Network. 

Is there a farm/garden? 

Yes, we currently have a very active garden club. In our short term plans, we are looking to expand the garden and grow more vegetables to serve at the main cafeteria. As of fall 2021, we have began to work on our new campus farm!

What are the correct ways to recycle/compost?

Recycling:

Green bins are used for paper and cardboard. Please break down boxes so that more can be fit into each bin! If grease or food stains are on paper/cardboard, it needs to be thrown away. Blue bins: used for comingled glass, plastic, and aluminum. No food may be in containers. No polystyrene (styrofoam).

Compost:

All vegetables, fruit, coffee grounds, and paper towels (without grease on them). No meat or dairy. 

Does Eckerd have solar panels? 

We have a 50KW solar panel array on top of the Environmental studies and BES building. It powers the ES building, the BES building, and part of the MPC building during peak sunshine hours. It produces roughly $10,000 in electricity per year. 

Is there a CarShare program? 

We are currently looking into new CarShare programs, but we have not found any that are suitable for the college at the moment. 

Why is recycling not picked up during move out and finals week? 

The recycling program is completely student-run, and it is difficult for people to volunteer and work during move-out and finals week. If you are interested in volunteering for the recycling program, you can find more information here (link recycling page).