Recycling, compost and garbage
More and more people are producing more and more waste. Landfills are filling up faster than we can find new sites for them. And landfills create new types of waste. Since 1993, the University of Ottawa has actively worked to reduce, reuse and recycle campus waste.
Target
- To become a Zero Waste Campus that diverts all waste - Current recycling diversion rate of 51%
Objectives
- Expand recycling program
- Launch Recycling Awareness Campaign
Campus Initiatives
- Recycling on campus
- Composting on campus
- Furniture Recycling Program
- RecycleMania
- The Free Store
- Green Reps program
- Dump and Run
- Lug a Mug campaign
Recycling on campus
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The University of Ottawa recycles 12 different types of materials ranging from the standard fine paper, plastics, glass and metal to batteries, computers and refrigerators. (details) |
Composting on campus
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The University of Ottawa utilizes two separate composting systems on campus; a vermi composting system and a mechanical composting system. Combined the two systems allow the campus to compost over 100 tonnes of organics every year. (details) Related article: The Story of our composting system |
Furniture Recycling Program
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Initiated in 2008, the Furniture Recycling Program (FRP) aims to redistribute used furniture to campus community members. In 2010 the Furniture Recycling Program diverted 88.5 tonnes of waste and saved the University approximately $500,000 in avoided furniture costs. |
RecycleMania
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RecycleMania is a friendly competition and benchmarking tool for college and university recycling programs to promote waste reduction activities to their campus communities. (details) |
The Free Store
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The Free Store is a reoccurring event that allows you to drop off stuff you don’t want anymore and pick-up things you do want for FREE. The Free Store occurs once every month in the University Center. (details) |
Green Reps
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Green Reps are students who represent their residence by leading other students on their floor in various green initiatives. Being a Green Rep is an excellent way to get involved in protecting the environment. (details) |
Dump and Run
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Twice a year, the Sustainable Development Office and Housing Service organise the Dump and Run with a group of engaged volunteers to collect clothing, kitchenware, laundry detergent, unopened food, and books left behind by students. The collected items are given to the Free Store and donated to community groups. (details) |
Lug a Mug
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Launched in 2000, this student led initiative seeks to draw attention to the environmental and economic benefits of carrying a reusable mug. All uOttawa foodservices outlet offer discounted prices for those using a reusable mug. University of Ottawa embossed stainless steel travel mugs are available at the campus bookstore. |
