Upgraded recycling program underway to increase awareness, recycling across campus

An upgraded recycling program is underway on the West Lafayette campus to help increase recycling and reduce waste sent to the landfill. Two types of receptacles located throughout several buildings have new, attached signs that include illustrated examples of recyclable and nonrecyclable items and QR codes linked to additional resources.

The program is an initiative by Campus Planning, Architecture and Sustainability (CPAS) to support the 2020 Physical Facilities Sustainability Master Plan. The plan calls for an annual campus waste recycling rate of 50% by fiscal year 2025.

“The signs are designed to make it easier for students, faculty, staff and visitors to know what to put in each receptacle,” says Tony Gillund, director of Sustainability. “Small actions combined together can create a significant impact, and that is what we are hoping to accomplish with this project.”

CPAS worked with the Tippecanoe Recycling and Solid Waste Management District and local recyclers to ensure alignment on what items are currently recyclable. A list of recyclable items and items that should be disposed of in landfill bins is available on the Sustainability website.

CPAS also worked with several other departments within Physical Facilities’ Administrative Operations organization, including Building Services, Grounds and University Surplus, as these groups are all involved in the handling of generated recyclables and waste. 

“Our custodians are our eyes and ears in campus buildings,” said Russ Wetli, director of Building Services. “Their work is vital to maintaining a healthy environment for students, faculty, staff and visitors. Part of that work is the proper disposal of trash and recycling from the building.”

The signs are currently posted in 15 high-traffic academic buildings. The goal is to add the signs to more buildings throughout this semester. The Sustainability department is measuring specific data, including how many times the QR codes are scanned, as a way to assess the effectiveness and usefulness of the enhancements. 

The Administrative Operations organization supports the university through safe, reliable and transformative services. Putting programs in place to increase recycling and reduce waste is just one of many ways the organization powers Purdue.

Questions about recycling or feedback regarding the program may be directed to the Sustainability department at sustainability@purdue.edu.