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It's always good to try things!

  • Writer: Gavin Smith
    Gavin Smith
  • Jul 28, 2019
  • 2 min read

Updated: Sep 10, 2019

Alsco encourages our branches to try sustainable options.  This is a great initiative from Dunedin.

Situated midway between the University Campus and the City Centre, Te Rangi Hiroa College caters for up to 120 full-time, first year students at the University of Otago.
Te Rangi Hiroa College

2 April 2019 Email from Rosemary Tarbotton


"At Te Rangi Hiroa College we use the linen service provided. We are very happy with the service but are concerned about the number of single use plastic bags you use to hold the sheets etc. Is there any way you can use something else? In this time of trying to teach students about sustainability we would appreciate you trying to come up with a better solution. Many thanks, Rosemary"



4 April 2019 Invitation from Alsco to trial reusable bags


The trial commences the following week, packing linen into a reusable bag (which is actually a pillow slip liner) as opposed to wrapping in plastic.




24 April 2019 Third Week of Trial


The trial is now in its third week with great feedback and cooperation from Rosemary and her team at Te Rangi Hiroa College.

  • There are 28 bags in circulation, with no rejects or the need to have any laundered so far.

  • The College folds the used bags and returns them clean to Alsco and they have been used a few times already without needing to be laundered or replaced.

  • The contents of each bag can be distinguished by the profile of the packed bag when it is stacked neatly on the customers shelves.

  • Another three university colleges have approached with interest in the service.

This week we have included pillow slips to the trial.


15 May 2019

A word from Rosemary Tarbotton


"Thanks for taking our request for a more sustainable wrap seriously. We are very happy with the work you have done in supplying these reusable fabric laundry bags. Our residents are appreciative also! Regards, Rosemary"


Other reasons that make good sense...

Reports from the Dunedin Production Team inicate that the average time to wrap queen sheets in plastic is 28 seconds, but with the reusable bags they have managed to bring this down to an average of 19 seconds.

 
 
 

7 Comments


Albane Martin
Albane Martin
Mar 05

This is a thoughtful and constructive message highlighting an important environmental concern. Reducing single-use plastic is especially meaningful in educational environments where students are learning about sustainability and responsible practices. Exploring alternatives such as reusable packaging or eco-friendly materials could make a positive difference while maintaining the quality of the linen service. Clear communication and responsible choices like these reflect professionalism — much like in resume writing service, where presenting values and practices thoughtfully can create a strong and positive impression.

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Adrian Byrne
Adrian Byrne
Mar 04

This is a thoughtful and important concern, especially in today’s push toward sustainability and environmental responsibility. Reducing single-use plastic is a meaningful step, particularly in educational environments where students are learning about sustainable practices. Exploring alternatives like reusable packaging or eco-friendly materials could make a positive impact while maintaining service quality. Just as a cv writing service cork focuses on presenting information clearly and responsibly, businesses can also demonstrate professionalism by adopting practices that support sustainability and community values.

Edited
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Suzy Lee
Suzy Lee
Mar 03

Players must use quick reflexes to avoid obstacles and sharp turns. Slope Game

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Ibtesam Abdullah
Ibtesam Abdullah
Mar 02

Rosemary raises a very thoughtful and important concern. Sustainability is becoming a priority for many schools and organizations, and reducing single-use plastic is a meaningful step toward environmental responsibility. It’s encouraging to see institutions not only teaching students about sustainability but also actively practicing it. Open conversations like this can often lead to innovative, eco-friendly alternatives that benefit both service providers and the wider community. Just as a CV writing experts carefully refines content to reflect values and professionalism, businesses can refine their processes to better align with sustainability goals.

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Kenna Neal
Kenna Neal
Oct 10, 2025

I totally agree—it’s always good to try new things! Exploring different ideas helps us grow and discover unique passions. I recently started customizing my jackets with embroidered rocker patches, and it’s been such a fun and creative way to express personal style.

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