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Boston College Dining Services has revealed a number of new initiatives aimed at meeting students' dietary needs and expanding existing efforts to bring fresh, local, and sustainable food options to campus this semester.
Construction is already underway at Corcoran Commons, where the Eagle Mart is moving to the first floor for better accessibility. According to BC Dining Services Director Beth Emery, the new market is expected to open mid-semester, depending on construction.
Featured options will include Starbucks espresso and specialty drinks, as well as a varying pop-up food theme that will change according to student input. Also, the market will offer fresh produce as a convenient option for students who depend on their own kitchens and cooking for sustenance.
For students who seek the freshest produce, BC Dining is continuing the Fall Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) farm share, which was started last year with the help of student sustainability interns. This program is open to the whole of the BC community, including students, faculty, and administration members.
CSA farm share features fresh produce provided by local farmers according to what is ripe each week. The fall share costs $320, in exchange for one box a week of produce for eight weeks. Profits will go to both BC and to the farmers supplying the produce.
Additionally, BC Dining is increasing its sustainability initiatives with feedback from students. The FRESH to Table sustainable and innovative food program, which began at Lower, will now also be found in both McElroy and Stuart.
In an effort to reduce waste, BC Dining has relabeled McElroy's trash, recycling, and composting station in hopes that it will be more effective. Also, students are now able to purchase metal straws, bamboo utensil sets, and a reusable to-go container at various dining hall locations.
Also, BC Dining has bought more china and flatware for dining areas to be used instead of plastic options. Students are reminded to be careful not to throw out plates and to return all plates and utensils to the dining hall. In past semesters, missing plates and utensils have undermined BC Dining's efforts to adopt more sustainable practices.
Overall, BC Dining has been working over the summer to implement and continue many programs designed to further sustainability in this realm of BC life. Keep an eye out for the new developments, and reach out to BC Dining on their website with any suggestions.
