Written by Bill Carlson.
Each year, University Housing undertakes a major upgrade project to improve student living spaces, focusing on sustainability and resource-sharing. This year, in collaboration with the Warehouse and Surplus Property team, part of Procurement and Business Services, University Housing repurposed furniture from North Residence Hall. A total of 243 bedroom sets, including over 1,100 pieces of furniture, including desks and chairs, were replaced.
The surplus furniture was sold at discounted rates, benefiting other University of North Carolina System universities and non-profit organizations.
This initiative not only provides financial advantages, but also fosters community connections, allowing these groups to allocate resources to other needs.
Promoting Sustainability
This project supports the university’s commitment to environmental sustainability. By repurposing furniture and diverting it from landfills, the team increased its waste reduction rate from 80% to 90% in the past three years. These efforts align with the university’s broader sustainability goals, reducing waste, lowering the carbon footprint and setting a positive example for other organizations. Through collaborations like this, University Housing and the Warehouse and Surplus Property team demonstrate the value of strategic partnerships and sustainable practices.