Investigating Numbers and Behavior: Grab ‘n Go

This report investigates the amount of waste generated by Grab ‘n Go and student’s behavior towards the dining option. A survey was taken at both Chapin and Hubbard where 306 and 154 interviews were taken respectively for a 95% confidence level. Students were asked six questions: 1. How many times did you visit Grab ‘n Go a week? 2. Why did you come today? 3. What House are you from? 4. Where did you take the food? 5. Are you concerned about the amount of waste generated? 6. Would you be open to any alternatives, such as Dining Services providing Tupperware? We found that students visited Grab ‘n Go around three times a week, they came because of the menu option, location, and because it was prepackaged. We found that most of the food was taken back to the student’s House, however, in Hubbard’s case a quarter of students sat and ate in Hubbard. Just under half of the students surveyed were concerned about the amount of waste generated, with the next majority being unconcerned, and a small portion being unsure. A large majority of students were open to the option of an alternative such as Tupperware. In general we found a lack of awareness in the amount of waste being generated by Grab ‘n Go and a disconnect between the campus’ commitment towards sustainability and this dining option. We have gathered together some recommendations Smith College can explore in the immediate, mid‐range, and long‐ term future