With state legislators proposing to slash funding to Penn State by 5 percent, the university is scrambling for ways to save money.

Recently, Penn State Vice President and Provost Rodney Erickson requested the help of faculty and staff in finding new ways to save university funds. He is also co-chairing a task force spearheaded by Penn State President Graham Spanier to search for belt-tightening financial initiatives.

University officials have identified several areas where they feel students can help offset rising tuition costs.

Students play a crucial role in the conservation process, Erickson said.

"Anything from turning off lights to using less paper can help save money," he said. "It's not only good for the university, but good for the environment."

Removal of recyclable waste such as newspapers, plastic containers and cans costs nearly one-fifth the price of removing garbage, said Al Matyasovsky, Penn State's recycling program coordinator.

"If we could recycle more, we would have a potential savings of $150,000," he said.

Each day, one maintenance worker spends five minutes in each classroom cleaning up trash left behind by students, Matyasovsky said. By disposing of the garbage themselves, the university could save an additional $100,000, he said.

But some students are skeptical that their actions will have a significant impact.

"I don't recycle because I don't think it helps much," said Julia Bonner (senior-journalism). "There isn't much of a difference I can make."

Money can also be saved in the dining commons, Matyasovsky said.

"Take only what you feel you can eat," said Matyasovsky. "You can always go back for more."

Post-consumer waste goes to the landfill and costs as much to dispose of as non-recyclable items, he added.

Students can also lobby state legislators to increase state appropriations to Penn State.

"If we have enough students [lobbying] in large numbers, it could have an impact," Penn State spokesman Tysen Kendig said.

Currently, the Undergraduate Student Government sponsors lobbying trips to Harrisburg. But some students wish there were more organized efforts to speak with state representatives.

"I'd be willing to contact my legislators if the school set up a program to make it easier," said Philippe Rouchon (sophomore-biology).

But students do not have to travel to Harrisburg to take action against rising tuition costs.

"A recycling program is one piece of paper at a time, one newspaper at a time," Matyasovsky said. "One person can make a difference."