Sustainability can seem like an overused buzz word but on the University of Oregon Eugene campus employees can take part in tangible ways to adapt their consumerism.
The Office of Sustainability runs a surplus sale that is open to all employees and members of the public. Hours for fall term are Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 3-5:30 p.m., except UO holidays.
The warehouse is located at 2020 Franklin Boulevard with the entrance near the corner of 15th Avenue and Orchard Street.
Common pieces regularly in stock are tables, chairs, file cabinets and buckets. New items are brought in constantly and have included rubber exercise mats, DVD movies, kitchenware and incubators.
Faculty and staff do not pay for items for reuse on campus. Items can be picked up during any open hours but purchases for personal use are only available during public sale hours. Those with questions can call 541-999-4173 or email uosurplus@uoregon.edu.
Employees who are looking to clean out or downsize their office or home can donate excess items to the student-run ROSE Room.
The free store, located in 182 Prince Lucien Campbell Hall and operating Tuesdays and Thursday from 2-4 p.m., is open to all employees and students.
One recent student shopper said, “It makes me remember the first time I went thrift shopping and it’s so exciting.”
Some of the most in-demand items are school supplies such as notebooks, clothes in good condition, and household items including kitchen supplies and general decor. If it works, it's nice, and you don't need it, they will take it.
“It's so rewarding to see students walk into the ROSE for the first time and leave with something useful for their apartment or new clothes,” said Marina Thompson, waste reduction and reusables staff from the Student Sustainability Center. “The room shows us that communities can successfully circulate materials with each other when they are given a space to do so, greatly reducing personal cost, waste and consumerism. I hope to continue seeing it grow throughout this year, and for people to come visit us when they clean out their closets!”
—By Jennifer Archer, University Communications