Take out the trash

Someone has got to take the trash off this campus, and ASU must reform the lackluster recycling program to do this.

We at the Ram Page find the recycling system to be dismal. Students are not told the importance of recycling, or where to put it.

The recyclable cans are in obscure locations and generally look like any other trash can.

Residence Halls have labeled black recyclable cans, which look exactly like regular trash cans. There is no explanation or big sign saying recycle here, nor is there a push to recycle.

Many campus buildings have recycle cans, but they are hidden in odd corners. The library has three huge ones, which are in theory used for the whole floor. Once they are full, no one comes by to take them. They just overflow.

There is also no mention of a recycling plan. No ads, no seminars, nothing to teach students what can be recycled, where the recyclable cans are or what to put in them.

While ASU boasts some great academic programs, in the case of environmental care, the university has fallen far behind.

Tarleton State University keeps track of how much it recycles per year and post it online. In the year 2015, TSU recycled 237,419 pounds.

ASU’s rivals are making an effort to be green. Meanwhile, ASU throws the very rare recycling volunteer opportunity.

We believe the Student Government Association should lead this and work to create more recycling projects, add more bins and create publicity for a program that will show students how and what to recycle. Back in 2014, SGA created Adopt-a-Hall for RSOs. It has disappeared, but could help this situation.

There could also be recycling competitions between the residence halls.

We believe SGA or a student-led effort should be created to keep ASU beautiful.