With increasing pressure on our precious resources, college campuses have come to play an important role in environmental stewardship. This guide provides an overview of strategies for the implementation and development of a college campus recycling and waste reduction program. It includes tools, resources and success stories to inspire collegiate recyclers everywhere.

There are many challenges in implementing and developing a campus recycling program. It is important to remember to start small, initiate pilot projects, and build new bridges while strengthening existing networks. Creating a program that has longevity is an evolving process which takes a lot of dedication and many small steps.

Campus Recycling Programs are leading colleges in positive directions by creating hands-on experiences for students, developing sustainable and conservation-focused practices, working towards smart economics, and creating positive public images.

The sections of this book can be read in any order; each chapter can stand alone and still be relevant. The book begins with the basics of starting a program and subsequent chapters go on to describe more specialized forms of waste management and reduction. Pick and choose chapters or read the book cover to cover.

Each chapter concludes with a list of substantive online resources. Some of the links will lead to other relevant pages and information about additional resources not found on the web. If a link is no longer working or you know of a website that should be included, send an email to: knowaste@uoregon.edu .

This handbook is a compilation of experiences and insights from college campus recyclers. Fellow collegiate recyclers are the best resource. If they do not have the answer, they will probably be able to refer you to someone who will be able to answer your questions. You can get in contact with fellow collegiate recyclers by going to the State Recycling Organization or by calling the State Department of Health and Environment. The EPA website (epa.gov) may also list valuable contacts. The University of Oregon Campus Recycling website maintains a list of college recycling programs. You will find that networking is indeed one of the greatest assets you have.

 

Enjoy this guide and thanks for recycling!

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