Greeks Going Green

Green conscious students at 7 different colleges reported similar problems on each of their campuses. These echo-loving party goers were disturbed by the waste at frat/sorority parties, club events, formals, homework sessions, and even lunches hosted by academic departments.

This post will be the first in a series that focuses specifically on turning college parties green.


And there's really only place to start - the eponymous red cup. 

These 16 ounce cups have become a staple at college parties - particularly associated with drinking games and beloved for their opaque color (leaving the cup's content unidentifiable). In 2006, Solo sold almost $2.5 billion of these cups. With each pack of 50 costing $11.29, that's more than 200 million of these cups sold! 


This plastic isn't biodegradable. It sits in landfills, and eventually disintegrates, absorbs and releases toxic chemicals, and ends up in the food chain.


So what's the alternative? 

• If you or an organization you a member of frequently hosts parties, consider investing in reusable plastic cups. You can order these online with your frat/sorority/student club logo embossed on the cup's surface. These cups don't differ too drastically in style from the Solos so don't fret that your party is about to become a formal, fragile-glass occasion. 
• If it costs you about $300 for 250 cups, then you will have covered your costs in 5-6 parties! This means that by the end of one semester (or tops 1 year) you will have made a purchase that actually saves you money!
• Additionally, incorporate this into your organization's philanthropy initiatives. This will motivate your co-members to support the shift AND it will help make your party guests aware of the change. In other words, don't only switch cups - but also - be an advocate. Make sure people know what the change is all about and why you did it. Your organization can take the lead and who knows how many others will follow - what a great way to be a trend setter!