In a significant move to boost sustainability in campus dining, Sodexo has partnered with Topanga to introduce an innovative reusable to-go program across several US universities. This collaboration aligns with Sodexo’s commitment to sustainability and offers a practical solution to reduce single-use plastic consumption in campus cafeterias.
Sodexo, known for its foodservice management on educational campuses, aims to advance sustainable practices across its operations. By integrating Topanga’s ReusePass system, Sodexo leverages track-and-trace technology to encourage the use of reusable containers, thereby enhancing the environmental stewardship of its campus offerings. This system not only tracks container usage but also promotes a high return rate, which was notably 97% at Saint Mary’s College of California, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness.
Kate Shearer, Sodexo’s Director of Sustainability & CSR for Campus services, emphasizes the goal of driving substantial environmental impacts through small, manageable actions. “Through our collaboration with Topanga, we aim to ignite transformative changes by promoting small actions, such as transitioning to reusable containers, that will drive significant impacts over time,” Shearer stated.
Sodexo and Topanga partner for more sustainable college campuses
The ReusePass program has been rolled out in several institutions, including SUNY New Paltz, University of Maine, University of Vermont, and others, with plans for further expansion this fall. The full list can be found below:
- SUNY New Paltz, New Paltz, NY
- University of Maine, Orono, ME
- University of Vermont, Burlington, VT
- North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, NC
- Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR
- Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA
- George Mason University, Fairfax, VA
- Saint Mary’s College of California
Page Schult, Founder and CEO of Topanga, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “It’s a privilege to support Sodexo and its campus partners, and enhance their sustainability efforts by deploying effective, proven solutions, as demonstrated by our successful work with Sodexo at Saint Mary’s College of California.”
This strategic partnership between Sodexo and Topanga not only supports environmental goals but also aligns with the increasing student and institutional demand for sustainable solutions in higher education dining services.









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