Every day, Oregon State University produces an average of nearly 20,000 pounds of solid waste. Each year, a smaller portion of this waste is finding its way into the landfill. Currently, OSU is diverting 51% of its waste away from the landfill.

Still, 3,150 pounds of recyclable materials are being thrown away and sent to the landfill EVERY DAY. The majority of that material is paper, both color and white. OSU Recycling has continually increased the number of recycling bins and bags on campus. Please take the time to place your recyclables in this bins and help us reduce the amount of solid waste that we send to the landfill.

Source: OSU Campus Recycling Audit (1999-2000)

OSU Campus Recycling recycles a wide variety of items:

Recycling these items is quick and easy. Most buildings have labeled recycling bins placed in convenient locations. For those items not commonly recycled (cartridges, books, CD's, styrofoam peanuts, etc.) call Campus Recycling at 737-2925, or fill out a special pick-up form on their web site: www.property.orst.edu (Click on Campus Recycling).

The most important part of recycling efforts is SOURCE REDUCTION. Everyone can use less materials than they currently do. Here are some simple tips:

• Bring your own cloth bags to stores
• Make double-sided copies and print double-sided papers
• Buy products with limited packaging - even better, bring your own container and buy in bulk.
• When possible, email documents instead of printing them out
• Reuse printed paper by using the back-side for notes
• Bring your own mug when getting drinks on campus - you get a discount!
• Submit class assignments via email