Say goodbye to single-use and hello to reuse
The future is now... and the future is TRASHLESS. Beginning fall 2025, Colman Commons, our residence dining room, will be 100% transitioning to the Friendlier reusable system.
Broadly used and accepted in communities across the country and beyond, UTM is hopping onboard the already successful and established Friendlier system. While we are starting with Colman Commons now, the plan is to expand the program to each dining space on campus in order to move completely toward a trashless dining experience.
How it Works
Step 1
Order your food
Step 2
Purchase your food
You will be required to pay a small deposit (which you get back!) for each Friendlier item
- Plate = 50¢ deposit
- Bowl = 50¢ deposit
- Takeout container = 50¢
- Cup with lid = 85¢
FYI: For Student Meal Plan holders the deposit will come out of your BASIC account
Step 3
Enjoy your food
Scrape any remaining leftover food remnants out and don’t worry about washing your container
Pro Tip: If you have leftovers, keep it for another day. Friendlier containers are freezer, fridge, and microwave safe!
Step 4
Using the Friendlier mobile app (download here) or the web version (access here), scan your Friendlier item(s) and drop them in the return box
There are many Friendlier return stations on campus to choose from:
The dish return room in Colman Commons
Each floor in Oscar Peterson Hall
Lobby of Roy Ivor Hall
Lobby of Erindale Hall
Additionally, each floor of Erindale Hall will have an additional return bin
Pro Tip: If you're looking for additional return stations, check the app to find additional return stations throughout the community
Step 5
Collect your deposit via e-transfer to the bank account you connect to the app
Pro Tip: Add your deposit funds back to your Meal Plan to ensure you always have enough!
Should you choose to donate your deposits to a charity, we have set up
the UTMSU Food Centre as an option within the Friendlier app.
QUESTIONS?
Contact Friendlier
Frequently Asked Questions
It's easy!
Step 1: Download the Friendlier mobile app (*download below*) or use the Web Version
Step 2: Scan the QR code on your container(s) & drop them in the return bin
Step 3: Receive your money through an e-transfer (1-2 weeks)
You will tap one time with your TCard to pay for everything.
No problem! No problem! Please email info@friendlier.ca.
No, but please scrape out all food residue in a food compost bin before returning.
Scan and return it anyways! Friendlier will ensure it gets properly recycled.
No problem! Please email info@friendlier.ca.
