UQ’s Sustainability Office partnered with UQ Wellness and Student Services to host the Be Green, Be Kind, Be Giving Campaign and donation drive in the first week of December. Collection bins were placed in 15 locations across the St Lucia, Gatton and Herston campuses.
In total, just over 400kg of materials were collected, comprised of clothing and linens, shoes, and housewares. The donation drive reduced waste, promoted material reuse, and connected the UQ community with our local community.
Our partnering charities Lifeline and St Vincent de Paul received the donated items, with the funds generated from the sale of these items going towards delivering their vital services. Liz Ward, Executive Officer St Vincent de Paul said, “By donating good quality clothes, and bric-a-brac UQ has made a positive difference in two ways. Actively reducing landfill but importantly also making a difference to those less fortunate, who need a helping hand.
Giving also has many other benefits as Dr Mel Hyde, Research Fellow from the School of Psychology explains, “Giving can also benefit the giver who knows they are making a difference by helping the environment and local community members in need, and it promotes feelings of happiness or ‘warm glow’ when we do good for others".
Well done and thank-you UQ!
