Disappearing Dump Situation

Reported by Jayden Forsyth

Photographed by

Canyon Commons, affectionately known as “The Bon” by George Fox University (GFU) students and staff, has seen its share of changes over the years. The latest adjustment, removing the food waste system at the start of the 2025 spring semester, has left many students curious about its purpose.

Upon returning to campus for their first meals of the semester, students noticed that the waste receptacles in the dish return area were gone. Previously, the area featured a counter with four holes that funneled uneaten food into garbage bins, allowing Canyon Commons staff to wash plates already cleared by students. These were replaced with a flat countertop so that students now place their plates on the rotating dish rack without scraping food waste.

Speculation quickly spread, with students proposing various theories for their disappearance. A few days into the semester, a pink paper sign appeared in the dish return area instructing students to leave food on their plates, but questions about the rationale behind the change persisted.

The real reason? Aesthetic appeal. According to Bon Appétit student worker Caitlin Dickinson, “We were told that management wanted a cleaner, more smooth look.” Removing the food waste system was not a matter of functionality but an effort to streamline the cafeteria's appearance.

This explanation diverged from students’ initial theories. One common belief was that the change aimed to prevent silverware and other dishes from being accidentally discarded. “That’s what I was thinking. That would make a lot of sense,” freshman Campbell Anderson said. 

Others speculated it was to ensure food waste was sorted correctly. “It’s probably so the food waste is sorted properly by trained staff instead of students who are done with their food,” freshman John Ruston suggested.

Although the official reason was simpler than students imagined, the adjustment has sparked mixed reactions. While some appreciate the sleeker design, others are adapting to the change, wondering if it affects efficiency or sustainability practices.

For now, the new system appears to be a permanent change at Canyon Commons.