When it comes to the environment, the University of Virginia says it's the little things you do that can make a big difference. That is the basis for a new sustainability campaign on grounds.
Fourth-year student Erica Eickhoff is on double duty. She's manning the information table, but also spreading word about UVA's new "see why" campaign.
"I think the promoting behavior that is not wasteful is always a good thing," said Eickhoff.
The campaign involves three slogans, each promoting eco-friendly actions. "Flip the Switch" is one of them.
Eickhoff stated, "I was not the best at turning my light off last year, but this year I have been trying to make more of an effort."
"When we collected comments from employees we learned that many employees and students when they leave large rooms such as classrooms and conference rooms do not feel empowered to turn off the lights," said Ida Lee Wootten with the Office of Community Relations.
"Flip the Switch" stickers are now being posted in classrooms all over grounds. Stickers that say "Try Just One" are also going up in restrooms, encouraging people to only use one paper towel. It's something Eickhoff has been doing for some time now. "I saw the sticker and I kind of smiled, like oh good," she said.
Wootten stated, "It is estimated currently that 51,000 trees daily are used just to keep track of the number of paper towels being disposed of every single day."
"Choose to Reuse" is the third slogan. "The more everyone tries to make these tiny reductions, the greater the impact will be," said Eickhoff.
Eickhoff is not the only embracing the new slogans, UVA says feedback on grounds is positive - a sign these signs are getting the point across.
