Hi Pete and Shawn—

Here is the latest on zero-waste from the past week: 

• I put a local farmer, John McNally, in touch with Rebecca Seymour, who manages the Starbuck’s at the Illini Union. I was able to learn that coffee grounds can be stored in plastic bins with lids until they are ready for use, although the lid should be kept on as they mold quickly and emit a nasty odor. John is able to pick up the grounds and will arrange pickup directly with Rebecca. 
• I also let Rebecca know that I heard back from the Urbana Park District, and they will see if any of their gardeners are interested in the used coffee grounds. Starbuck’s corporate has a program for packaging small quantities of used grounds for same-day pickup that may be a good fit for individual gardeners. I sent program information to Rebecca as well. 
• I went by PPSB today to take a look at the trailer for nitrile gloves but was unable to identify which container it was. I have a note out to Morgan and Anna to see if it makes sense for me to get a “tour”/demo one weekend or when I’m in town on Feb. 19. Once I see the trailer and how it works, I’ll be able to draft better instructions for glove recycling program participants. 

Best regards,
Marya Ryan
Zero Waste Coordinator