Union Dining is Going Paperless
Sayonara receipts! The Union has big plans for a more sustainable dining experience.
With Earth Day just around the corner, Union Dining is planning something to make trees and customers happy by implementing request-only receipts. The program, which is estimated to save $15,000 should the pilot be successful, is set to launch April 20 in two Dining locations and will allow cash registers to print receipts only if a customer asks for it, saving paper in the long run and taking another step toward sustainability in the Union.
“The idea to create a more environmentally friendly practice has been discussed for the past seven to eight years, but couldn’t be implemented for various reasons, including audit controls and credit card signatures requirements,” said Jim Long, assistant food service director of restaurants. “Through technological advances and changes in industry standards, Dining Service is finally in a position to only print receipts when requested.”
So where can you avoid the pesky papers? Union Dining is piloting the program in the biochemistry building’s Badger Market and at Urban Slice of Memorial Union and Union South. More units have plans to add the practice this fall.
“We hope our guests agree with the practice and understand that Wisconsin Union Dining Services is taking steps to create sustainable and environmentally friendly business practices,” Jim said.
Along with the paperless receipt program, you can find several other sustainable practices around Union Dining locations.
- Composting: Collection bins add to the four tons of compost produced by the university each week. The eco-friendly materials are used for fertilizer and landscaping around campus. It’s a smelly, beautiful circle of life.
- Biodegradable Products: Those plates and to-go containers that hold your Rath fries are good for the environment!
- Local Food Options: Breads and bakery items are baked right here near Madison, and fruits and veggies come straight from local farmers during growing seasons.
- Reusable Mugs and Water Bottles: BYOM (Bring Your Own Mug) to receive discounts on coffee and soda at all Union restaurants, markets and cafes. It pays to be environmentally friendly.
- Devoted People: The Union has its very own Food Committee that constantly analyzes current dining operations and are always looking for ways to be more sustainable.
Will you miss the receipts? Have any sustainable suggestions you’d like to see in the Union? Share your thoughts in the comments section below, and read about how the Wisconsin Union Mug Program is making the Union an eco-friendly place!
