Topic outline

  • ArtCenter Facilities is launching a new pilot program with Dispatch Goods to introduce reusable takeout containers for dining services at the College. The goal of this program is to eliminate the use of single-use food containers. Rolling out over the Summer term, food purchased on campus will be served in reusable containers, instead of single-use packaging.

    Benefits of Reusable Containers

    By replacing disposable containers with reusable ones, this program helps reduce waste, lower CO₂ emissions, and use less water while making it easier for the ArtCenter community to make more sustainable choices. Many waste systems, including those in California, lack the infrastructure needed to properly process compostable food packaging, meaning it often ends up in landfills. Reusable containers stay in circulation longer, making them a more effective solution for reducing waste and environmental impact. 


    • The Basics

      When you receive food in a bright orange reusable container:

      • Clean any uneaten food or trash out of the container before returning it to the appropriate bin. There are regular waste cans near every return bin so no excuses!
      • Return the orange reusable containers to an appropriate orange return bin.

      That’s it! That’s all you have to do to save the planet. 

      A note about recycling


      This is a circular reuse system, not a recycling program. Do not put recyclable materials into the orange reusable container return bins. You may have noticed we don’t separate our waste at ArtCenter. That is because, with some exceptions, our waste hauler does it for us. We save you time and we consistently divert 75% of our waste from landfill, according to the monthly reports we receive from our waste hauler. 

      • FAQ

        How does this work?

        Your food will be provided in reusable containers. 

        Once you are done eating, dispose of any leftover food in the reusable container and return the reusable container in any of the bright orange marked bins located throughout campus.

        Are the containers microwave-safe? 

        Yes, the containers are microwave-safe. If you have a lid, we recommend removing it to provide ventilation during the microwaving process.  

        How are the containers cleaned and sanitized? 

        All containers are washed at an off-campus commercial wash facility using high-heat sanitation that meets or exceeds health department guidelines. 

        What happens if I take a container home/forget to return it? 

        Returning the containers whenever you are able helps us keep the reusable cycle going and create a much larger environmental impact. However, there are no repercussions for not returning a container within a specified period of time. You are welcome to take your meal wherever you would like, including home, and then just bring the container back the next time you are on campus. 

        Do I have to pay a deposit? 

        No, there is no deposit required! The program is free and runs on a trust system. Every time you bring a container back, it stays in rotation, cuts down on single-use waste, and improves our campus sustainability. 

        What materials are the containers made of and are they BPA-free? 

        These containers are made from durable, reusable polypropylene (PP #5), which is widely used for food-safe, heat-resistant products. They're long-lasting, fully washable, microwave-safe, designed for high reuse cycles, and are BPA-free, BPS-free, and PFAS-free. 

        • Locations of Collection Bins

          Look for the bright orange collections bins in the following locations throughout the College:

          1111 building

          • Elevator lobbies of P1, P2, levels 2–6
          • At the regular bin locations within Kohl Commons (the cafe) and outside in the outdoor seating area.

          950 building

          • B3—by the elevator doors and outside the entrance to the Heavin studio
          • B1—by the elevator doors
          • Ground Level—near all entrances (parking lot, Hixon Courtyard, Raymond entrance), elevator lobby, walkway from 950 to 908, inside the MTDC and inside the Grad Art Studios lobby.
          • Mezzanine Level—By the elevator doors inside and outside, in the mini-market area and next to the back stairway.
          • Second Level—By the elevator doors outside, on the outdoor patio
          • Rooftop—by the elevator doors

          908 building

          • Ground floor—Just inside the main entry doors
          • Second floor—near the elevator doors and at north end of main hallway

          Hillside/1700 Lida

          Ground Level

          • By the north entrance elevator
          • In the Ahmanson Lobby
          • At the bottom of the stairs near the Photo department
          • In the vending machine area near the lockers
          • In the South elevator lobby
          • Outside the LAT

          Second Level

          • In the Cafeteria and Student Dining Room
          • On the Cafe Patio
          • Top of the stairs across from the Library
          • Outside of the boardroom
          • Just inside the main entrance
          • Just inside doors to Sculpture Garden (two locations)
          • Top of the stairs across from side of Williamson Gallery
          • In the vending machine area
          • In the South elevator lobby
          • Just inside the South entrance

        • Topic 4