COLUMBIA, SC -- The University of South Carolina shredded papers for a good cause Friday.

The school partnered with Cintas Document Management and shredded old documents. It is part of a national competition called Recyclemania against other universities to see which school gains the most recycled items.

Students, staff, and the public came out in full force to destroy old papers free of charge.

Cintas General Manager Barry Peters said it also protects against identity theft.

"Unfortunately, not everybody realizes all the dangers out there, particularly younger folks. Identity theft is something that is growing day by day. And to be able to make sure that everybody knows that there is a responsible outlet, that is something we offer."

The national competition will continue throughout the month of March.