Collaboration between the Zero Waste Team and student group, Path to a Greener Stevenson (PTAGS), are piloting an initiative to remove the paper towels from the Stevenson House 2 restrooms. Students live in close proximity to the restrooms and will easily be able to transition to using their own hand towel instead of relying on single use towels.

Challenges
Paper towels are used everywhere in this country and people do not realize how wasteful they are, or how easy it is to stop using them. Changing peoples behavior is the most challenging part of this project. Encouraging students to use their own towel, or bring their own mug is not enough. Removing the paper towels from residence halls goes against the recommendation by the health center on campus. Paper towels make for a more sanitary environment and removing them could increase the spread of disease.

Successes
Approval of implementing the pilot project by AVC Sue Matthews was deemed a success. Paper towels make up the largest single category of waste on campus and this pilot is the first to address paper towels and on campus student housing. Another success is the positive student feedback from the pilot house survey. More than 50% of the students that have responded think paper towels do not need to be stocked in the dormitory bathrooms. Removing paper towels from residence halls encourages conservation and limiting single use items. 66% of respondents have said that this pilot project has changed their view of other wasteful single use products.