RYE BROOK, N.Y., Oct. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading U.S. foodservice provider, Chartwells Higher Education Dining Services, will announce a new bicycle usage program aimed at improving associates' health, wellness, and the environment on college campuses.  Chartwells is exhibiting at the 2013 Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) Resiliency and Adaptation conference, and chose to coordinate the timing of the Green Fleet bicycle program announcement with the kick-off of AASHE's annual event. AASHE is committed to advancing sustainability within college and university campuses by serving as a thought leader that provides invaluable resources to an engaged and diverse community.

Chartwells' dining operations are introducing bicycles to associates on campuses by providing pedal power for short-trip transportation as well as for exercise. In an effort to help reduce unnecessary use of catering trucks or personal vehicles for intra- or inter-campus travel and deliveries, Chartwells hopes that the promotion of this transportation alternative will not only help the environment, but also support associate health.

According to Patti Girardi, Chartwells' Vice President of Marketing and Creative Services, "Chartwells' Green Fleet supports sustainability initiatives and reinforces Chartwells' strong health and wellness commitments in more ways than one. Whether bicycles are being used for food deliveries or personal wellness, bicycling is an energy-efficient, zero emission mode of transportation. Chartwells' program is suited to support any existing campus bikeway infrastructure or bicycling development plan, contributing to a safe cycling environment."

Campuses participating in the pilot launch currently include: Green Mountain College, The University of Texas at Dallas, University of Central Oklahoma and Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Chartwells anticipates at least 50 bicycles in action on campuses by the end of the spring semester 2014.

Chartwells partnered with Republic Bike of Dania Beach, Florida, to design the custom bicycle fleet and accessories which include helmets, food delivery carts and baskets.

About Chartwells Higher Education Dining ServicesChartwells is the recognized leader in foodservice management, hospitality and award winning YouFirst guest service within college and university dining environments throughout academic institutions across the United States. We take tremendous pride in our high standards and dedicated service culture while providing nutritious cuisine that satisfies the unique appetites, lifestyles and dietary needs for every guest dining on campus.

Chartwells is committed to practices that honor ethical values, embrace diversity and inclusion, support the environment and value communities through demonstrated leadership, professionalism and new innovations.

Chartwells provides opportunities for personal growth and development while offering rewarding and promising careers in support of the clients, students and campus communities we serve.

For more information about Chartwells, visit our websites at www.EatLearnLive.com, www.DineonCampus.com and social media pages at www.Facebook.com/ChartwellsHigherEd, www.Twitter.com/ChartwellsHE and http://www.YouTube.com/ChartwellsHigherEd.

SOURCE Chartwells Higher Education Dining Services

RELATED LINKShttp://www.eatlearnlive.comhttp://www.dineoncampus.com