Sustainability Spotlight: Allison Tietz

Each month, we will highlight a UNC Charlotte community member who is an advocate for sustainability on campus. This November, we are highlighting Allison Tietz, the Sustainability Coordinator for Dining Services at UNC Charlotte, plays an active role in promoting sustainable practices throughout campus dining. Through her work, Allison helps support initiatives that reduce food waste, encourage responsible resource use, and make campus dining operations more environmentally friendly.

What is your name?

Allison Tietz

What is your job title?

Sustainability Coordinator for Dining Services

How long have you been at UNC Charlotte?

4 years in my current role, and the year prior I was one of the Horticulture Technicians at UNC Charlotte’s Botanical Gardens.

What does sustainability mean to you? 

 It started with an appreciation for the natural world since childhood and being taught “leave a place better than you found it.” That developed into understanding that taking care of the earth depends on taking care of each other and the future. The most sustainable avenue is usually not the easiest, but knowing you’re doing good should make the effort worth it. 

How do you implement sustainability into your day-to-day role at UNC Charlotte? 

 I co-lead the Zero Waste football program, reuse decorations and giveaway items from past marketing events, communicate with the Recycling Program for bulk/weird work requests, and train associates on waste sorting (check out the new Mecklenburg County recycling guidelines!). I also keep a pile of scrap paper for notes and collect plastic bags and film wrap in my office to recycle.  

How can we keep sustainability at the forefront when cooking/prepping for Thanksgiving? 

Plan ahead- Create a menu, check your pantry, and make a list for the grocery store so you don’t buy more than you need.

• Serve smart- Start with one portioned plate before going back for seconds of your favorites to help reduce food plate waste.
• Freeze properly- Pack leftovers in small portions in shallow containers and label the contents and date.
• Love your leftovers- There are things other than turkey sandwiches! Check out our Holiday Remix Demo Kitchen on November 17th at 12 PM for new leftover ideas. Sign up on Niner Engage 72 hours before the event. 

What is your favorite way to practice health and wellness? 

Gardening! It’s well documented that fresh air and interacting with plants make us happier. Digging holes in clay dirt and mixing soil amendments creates a workout as well. 

Is there a specific person, quote, etc. that inspires you?

 The book Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer. I read it in college and felt so deeply connected to her experiences and hope for the future.