Knox reduces waste and works with waste as a resource through many programs and initiatives. Some examples include offering an on-campus Share Shop, Bike Shop, Composting Programs, an extensive recycling program, food recovery program, resources for Zero Waste Events, and more!
Knox College Share Shop
The Share Shop is an on-campus free thrift store that serves as a dynamic hub for promoting sustainability through the donation, reuse, and repurposing of items within our campus community. Students, faculty, and staff are invited to donate gently used items—such as clothing, books, and home goods— to the Share Shop, or to "shop" for these items during open hours, free of charge.
By facilitating the exchange of these items, we encourage a culture of sharing and circularity, helping to reduce waste and minimize the demand for new products, while supporting those seeking affordable or essential items.
During the academic terms, the Share Shop is Open Thursday - Saturday, 4-6:30 pm, and has special limited open hours during winter and summer breaks.
We always need volunteers to help sort donations, tidy up, and manage the space during open hours! Check our Sustainability Newsletters for more information, and to get involved.
Knox College Bike Shop/Bike Share
Located in the basement of the Old Jail, the Knox College Bike Shop is an on-campus bike repair shop and rental service open several days during the week and staffed by student mechanics.
Students can rent bikes and bike locks for an entire term. There are about 60 bikes in the Bike Share Fleet, which are loaned to students as first-come-first-serve. This is a free service, though there is a charge if items are not returned. Additionally, mechanic services may be available to anyone in the Knox community for the cost of parts.
Fun fact: The Bike Shop is recognized by The League of American Bicyclists as a Bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Business for 2024-2028, in recognition of our outstanding efforts to support and encourage bicycling!
Bike Shop hours Check the weekly Sustainability Newsletter or the Bike Shop Facebook page for the current schedule, closures and updates.
Self-service bike stand and pump There is a self fix-it stand and pump located on the south side of Seymour Union, adjacent to the dining services office. The fix-it stand has a few tools (including an air pump to fill your tires and wrenches) and a link to online tutorials. It’s available for community use at all times.
Office Supply Share
Similar to the Share Shop, the Office Supply Share focuses primarily on school and office supplies. It’s located in Seymour Union, down the stairs from the Hard Knox Cafe, and is open whenever Seymour Union is open. Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to check here before purchasing new school and office supplies, and everyone is encouraged to donate gently used items back to the Office Supply Share for others to enjoy.
Zero Waste Event Planning
Knox strives to hold low-waste and waste-free events. For example, at large events (such as commencement and other community picnics), Knox works to use 100% reusable, compostable, or recyclable materials to package or serve food whenever possible. We encourage Knox clubs and organizations to do the same!
One great resource featured on our Sustainable Event Checklist is our Reuse Kits program! If you’re planning an event that includes food, consider borrowing a Reuse Kit. Reusable plates, bowls, cups, and silverware are available for short-term use for your events and meetings. The service is free, but individuals will be charged a fee for any late or non-returned items. To request a Reuse Kit, simply use the online request form.
Move Out
Knox also strives to reduce landfill-bound waste during Move Out at the end of each year. Instead of dumping usable clothes and household goods in the landfill, students and other community members can easily drop these items off at the Move Out donation center on campus (see map). Student volunteers and employees then sort these materials and make them available to community members through the share shop and local resale shops.
Surplus Property
Knox College Building & Facilities Services operates the campus Warehouse that houses excess furniture and chairs. Looking for a few additional items for your office or communal space? Check with the warehouse first, they may have just what you are looking for!
Recycle Printer
Do you regularly discard sheets of paper that are printed only on one side? There is a designated printer in Founders computer lab, the "\\recycle" printer, that is stocked with used paper, for printing drafts, etc.
