To-Go Program

Clemson Dining Reusable Program FAQs

What is ReusePass?

ReusePass is a sustainability program that allows guests to check-out and return reusable to-go containers, reducing resource consumption and diverting single-use containers from landfills.

ReusePass makes checking out a reusable container as easy as checking out a library book! Each ReusePass user and container have a unique QR code. When you’re checking out a container, dining staff will scan your ReusePass QR and the container QR code, which starts your rental window. Like library books, all containers have a due date. Use your mobile number to access your ReusePass account, keep track of your containers, see return bin locations, and celebrate your positive planetary impact!

Reuse Pass will be effective at Clemson beginning August 13th.

 

How does the process work?

1. Sign Up
   • app.reusepass.com/clemson
   • Enter your phone number and Clemson.edu email address
   • Receive a unique QR code and add to your digital wallet
2. Check Out
   • Before scanning into one our of three all-you-care-to-eat dining halls - Schilletter Dining Hall, The Dish at McAlister, or Douthit Hills Community Hub - inform the cashier that you would like to check out a to-go container
   • The cashier will scan your unique QR code and the container you are checking out before handing it to you
3. Return
   • To return your container, drop it off at one of the collection receptacles at any of our three dining halls 

You can return your used container to one of the collection receptacles located at each entrance of Schilletter Dining Hall, The Dish at McAlister and The Community Hub.

  

How long can I keep my container?

Containers are due back 3 days after check-out, but we recommend returning them as soon as you're done so they can get sanitized and recirculated in the ReusePass ecosystem!

If you forget to return a container by the due date, we'll send you a late text reminding you to return the container ASAP to avoid a failed container rental. Once a container is marked as late, you'll have 48 hours to return it before the rental window closes.

Don't worry - our ReusePass app makes it easy to see container statuses and due dates!

 

Why is there a 3-day return window?

The 3-day window exists to encourage participants to return their containers in a timely fashion, so they can be washed and reused.

This means we can serve the same number of students with fewer containers! It ensures the efficiency and workflow of the Reuse program, helping to create a healthier and happier planet.

 

What happens if a container breaks?

Accidents happen! If a container breaks, take a picture of the QR code on the container and send it to your campus dining team or your campus ReusePass SMS number. From there, please go ahead and return the broken container by the due date in a designated bin!

 

How do I delete my account?

To delete your account, reach out to reusepass@topanga.io and provide the campus and mobile number associated with your account. Please note, by deleting your account you will not be able to use reusable containers, even if the program is mandatory at your school

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Is a reusable to-go program sanitary and safe?

Yes. Dining staff clean and sanitize all reusable containers in a high-temperature, sanitizing commercial dish machine. Single-use plastic and compostable items are not inherently safer than reusable containers.

 

Do I need to clean my used container before returning it?

You will need to empty your used container of any remaining waste (food, napkins, cutlery, etc.) before placing it in a collection receptacle. Dining staff will take care of cleaning and sanitizing the container.

  

How do the containers get cleaned?

Clemson Dining staff clean and sanitize reusable containers in the dining halls’ commercial dish machines.

  

Can I reuse my container without having it cleaned?

No. For health and safety purposes, only clean and sanitized to-go containers our cashiers have provided youcan be used for to-go meals.

  

Can I bring my own reusable to-go container to use in dining?

No. To ensure that containers are properly cleaned and food safe, we will only permit the use of provided green reusable containers that have been appropriately cleaned and sanitized by Clemson Dining staff.

  

Can I exchange a dirty container for a clean container instead of returning it to an collection ?

No. All used containers must be returned to a collection receptacle. Cashiers and dining staff will not accept used containers.

 

I’m just one person, can I really have an impact?

Yes! Last semester, students participating in the ReusePass program around the US helped save more than 53,800 lbs of waste from going to landfills, conserved more than 361,400 gallons of water and saved nearly 375,900 lbs of GHG emissions from going out into the atmosphere. That’s a HUGE impact!

 

What are the environmental benefits of a reusable program?

A reusable program reduces single-use disposable waste and leads to reductions in harmful greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs). Our reusable containers are #5 plastic, so they can also be recycled at the end of their useful lives.

Producing single-use plastics requires petroleum and is a GHG-heavy process. Even producing many environmentally-preferred materials—like paper or compostable fiber—can lead to destructive deforestation practices and require lots of energy to manufacture.

These single-use containers—and all the resources that went into them--are disposed of, usually in the landfill, after one use. This landfilled waste emits potent and harmful GHGs such as methane and carbon dioxide that contribute to global climate change.

  

Why did Clemson Dining implement a reusable program?

Clemson Dining adopted a reusable program to reduce waste, reduce negative environmental impact, and better align with the University’s strategic sustainability goals.

  

Who do I contact if I have questions or concerns?

Please contact Sidney Schliesman with questions or concerns.