Current Release: September 11th, 2007 | Vol. XXIV Iss. 10

ILLUSTRATION BY SCHAEFFER GAYLE

Are you recycling?

BY IVY OZMON

imozmon@vwc.edu

Many Virginia Wesleyan College students remain unaware of how to be eco-friendly long after the President’s Environmental Issues Council (PEIC) has began meeting and the Marlins Go Green initiative has been launched. Recycling issues seem students’ most important concern at a college that pledges to care for far more than just recycling.

Even students who consider themselves fully aware of environmental issues are unsure of what the PEIC is or does, and though they may be familiar with the Marlins Go Green initiative, they are not sure it will be effective.

“It seems to be starting off slow,” said senior earth and environmental science major Matt Richardson. “I think it’ll get better as time goes on.”

While optimism is necessary to a successful program getting on its feet, the truth about the test of time is daunting. Marlins Go Green plans went campus-wide at the beginning of the semester, but when asked about the campaign this week, most students looked puzzled and replied with “Umm,” and “Uhhh.”

“I only know because of the recycling bins and the travel mugs,” said junior psychology major Halie Lyons. “I don’t think Go Green is very effective. The bins and mugs get people’s attention, but not really.”

The problem of ineffectiveness lies in the hands of the school, according to some.

“I think they’re supportive enough of the program.” said Vickie Brynildsen, president of the Student Environmental Awareness League and student member of the PEIC. “I don’t think they’re helping to motivate students enough.”