Vanderbilt Campus Dining has expanded its ReusePass reusable container program to the Hendrix Room, Vanderbilt's performance dining facility for student-athletes. The expansion reflects Vanderbilt's ongoing efforts to reduce material waste and streamline dining operations in a way that supports both students and the environment.
The ReusePass initiative, first introduced in fall 2023, helps students, faculty and staff reduce single-use disposable packaging. By offering a reusable system for to-go meals, the program makes it easy for the campus community to make more mindful choices. With Hendrix now participating, student-athletes can enjoy the same convenience-without the extra waste.
"The introduction of the Reuse Pass reusable to-go containers in our athletic dining hall has been a seamless transition and a game-changer. It's made grab-and-go meals more sustainable while keeping convenience at the forefront for our athletes," Julia Bell, director of sports nutrition, said.
With a one-time registration at vu.edu/reusepass, diners receive a personal QR code that allows them to check out and return containers easily across campus.
As of April 2025, Vanderbilt's use of ReusePass has contributed to the following:
- 191,399 single-use containers saved
- 18,826 pounds of waste kept out of local landfills
- 123,787 gallons of water saved through reduced production demand
- 128,588 pounds of greenhouse gas emissions avoided
- 98.14% return rate, indicating strong participation and program efficiency
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More than 8,000 users with at least one container check-out
Vanderbilt Campus Dining has a strong commitment to sustainable dining practices and continues to explore practical ways to minimize waste and operate efficiently.
Learn more about the program and Campus Dining's sustainability efforts.
