January 2025

Happy New Year, Vols!

As we ring in 2025, we’re excited to share some updates, opportunities, and ways you can stay involved with sustainability on campus and beyond. Whether you’re still enjoying winter break or getting ready for the spring semester, there’s plenty to look forward to!

Recycle Your Christmas Lights and Trees This Season!

As the holiday season winds down, don’t forget to recycle your unwanted holiday items responsibly! Non-working Christmas lights can be recycled as electronics at the UT Public Recycling Drop-Off or in the designated electronics collection containers at Knox County Convenience Centers, including Dutchtown, Halls, John Sevier, and Karns locations.

Knox County residents can also recycle live Christmas trees for free from January 2 through January 31 at any Knox County Convenience Center. Just ensure all decorations—such as ornaments, tinsel, wire, and lights—are completely removed.

For more details, visit the Knox County Christmas Tree Recycling webpage. Let’s work together to keep holiday waste out of landfills!

Knox County Convenience Centers:

• Carter: 8815 Asheville Highway

• Dutchtown: 10618 Dutchtown Road

• Halls: 3608 Neal Drive

• John Sevier: 1950 West John Sevier Highway

• Karns: 6930 Karns Crossing Lane

• Powell: 7311 Morton View Lane

• Tazewell Pike: 7201 Tazewell Pike

Knoxville Food Resources

With meal plans paused during the break, we know that accessing food can be challenging for students staying in Knoxville. Here are some resources available to help you stay nourished and supported throughout the winter season!

Campus Resources:

Big Orange Pantry

Located at the Center for Basic Needs in the Office of the Dean of Students, the pantry provides free food for students in need.

Food Assistance Programs:

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

SNAP provides financial assistance for purchasing groceries. Apply through the TN Department of Human Services.

Location: 2700 Middlebrook Pike, Suite 200
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 4:30 PM
For more information, visit tn.gov.

Food Pantries:

Second Harvest Food Bank

Use their interactive map to find food pantries near you!

Visit secondharvestetn.org for details.

Environmental Leadership Awards

Mark your calendars for the 2025 Environmental Leadership Awards! Join us on Monday, April 7th, 2025, at 6 PM in Student Union Ballroom B as we honor the students, faculty, and community members who are making a difference and helping to Make Orange Green.

Do you know someone who’s leading the way in sustainability? Nominations are now open for this year’s awards! Whether it’s a peer, professor, or community leader, we want to recognize their efforts.

RSVP now to reserve your spot for an evening of celebration, dinner, and cocktail attire. Don’t miss out on this special night dedicated to environmental excellence!

Click here to RSVP and nominate.

Spotlight on Student Organizations

Looking to get involved on campus this spring? There are so many incredible student organizations at UT that combine fun activities with sustainability, community, and adventure! Check out these groups and find your new favorite way to connect with fellow Vols: