Recycling and Waste Management

Trash and Recycling

• The University uses single stream recycling in offices, which means all recyclable waste goes into the same container — lined with clear plastic. Recyclables include paper, glass, pop cans, plastic containers and tin cans.
• The University has implemented a Landscaping and Wood recycling program that collects construction wood, pallets, and landscape material. This product will be diverted from the landfill and will be recycled as compost or mulch.
• Recycling boxes for ink and toner cartridges are found at various locations or contact Kathryn V. Twining by e-mail or at 214-768-2163. More information.
• Old batteries
• Old and broken computers are collected by ITS. Contact the Help Desk at help@smu.edu for pickup.

Custodial

• The University has mandated that Custodial Contractors use Green Seal Certified chemicals.
• The University converted to roll paper towels made with 40% recycled material and reduces waste. In locations where roll towels could not be implemented we use a 100% recycle content multi-fold hand towels. Both products are Green Seal Certified.
• The University has switched to a Green Seal Certified coreless toilet tissue made with 20% recycle material.  The elimination of the cores and the decrease packing material has reduces the amount of waste going to the landfills.   
• The University has converted to High Density Liners. The switch to High Density Liners was based on Source Reduction. Source Reduction is considered the best “Green Option” based on less raw material consumed, less energy consumed, less packaging required and lower material handling cost, reduces the amount of waste that is placed in landfills by the manufacturer.  
• The University conducted an audit to properly size the liners for trash and recycle containers which eliminated the unnecessary usage of oversized bags.  

More on recycling at SMU.