FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nov 13, 2012 #141
Contact: Kristin Pitts
(816) 235-6678
Environmental Protection Agency Karl Brooks will join University of Missouri-Kansas City officials to highlight the university’s participation in the EPA’s Food Recovery Challenge.
The university’s efforts will be recognized on America Recycles Day, Nov. 15, at noon in UMKC’s Student Union, in front of Jazzman’s Cafe and Bakery.
The EPA’s Food Recovery Challenge works to get organizations to “rethink” wasted food. The Challenge aims to sustainably manage food waste through source reduction, donation and composting.
For years, UMKC Dining Services has continually reduced its food waste. Dining Services uses cage-free eggs, biodegradable cups, 100 percent recycled napkins, compostable straws, and practices organic composting. Since 2008, UMKC has composted 135 tons of organics. In 2012 alone, the university composted 82.5 tons of organics. Additionally, the university features a tray-less cafeteria, bulk condiments, and no-rinse dishwashing products.
Beyond that, Dining Services offers many locally grown foods, and recycles more than 500 pounds of cardboard every week at the University Center alone.
Appointed by President Barack Obama as EPA Region 7 Administrator in February 2010, Karl Brooks supervises Agency operations in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and nine tribal nations. He is one of 10 EPA regional administrators.
About the University of Missouri-Kansas City
The University of Missouri-Kansas City, one of four University of Missouri campuses, is a public university serving more than 15,000 undergraduate, graduate and professional students. UMKC engages with the community and economy based on a four-part mission: life and health sciences; visual and performing arts; urban issues and education; and a vibrant learning and campus life experience. For more information about UMKC, visit www.umkc.edu. You can also find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.
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