McMaster rethinks recycling

[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/andrew_cooper_1.jpg” caption=”Andrew Cooper”]A new era of waste-management has come to the McMaster community.

Rethinking Recycling is a program developed to support the University's renewed commitment to recycling and to address issues that have historically plagued recycling programs at McMaster.

Signs of the new multi-faceted initiative have been appearing around campus, the most obvious ones being new recycling bins. However, Rethinking Recycling is about more than blueboxes and trashcans. The program also comes with new guidelines and protocols designed to help make it efficient and easy to follow for the entire McMaster community.

“Rethinking Recycling will increase the amount of material we recycle at McMaster University, and do so without compromising quality of service or the efficiency of our waste disposal system. Our goal is a system in harmony – where recycling is made as easy and efficient as disposing of garbage, and members of the McMaster community will actively and freely choose to reduce their environmental impact by recycling,” says environmental assistant Andrew Cooper.

“Setting realistic goals and creating a workable timeline are key to the success of Rethinking Recycling,” says Linda Axford, University Planner. “A program of this magnitude requires a long-term plan with checkpoints and opportunities for feedback and support from the community.”

People are encouraged to e-mail recycle@mcmaster.ca with comments or questions.

For people walking around campus, a uniform system of containers and bags will help to eliminate confusion of what goes in what slot. All garbage will be collected in clear bags, while recycling will be collected in blue bags. The colour coding makes sorting easier for custodial and office staff, and also helps users to distinguish recycling from garbage.

Additionally, new garbage and recycling containers have been installed in high-traffic areas. These new bins are easily identifiable and clearly labeled. Posters will be added detailing the recycling guidelines for quick and easy reference.

Concludes Cooper, “We intend to change the way members of the McMaster community think about recycling, and to make recycling an automatic component of everyday life.”

An important part of the Rethinking Recycling initiative is public feedback. E-mail comments or questions to recycle@mcmaster.ca.

Top trash tips (and recycling too)

1. All cans and bottles must be emptied before recycling. Spills and spray can be dangerous for workers at the recycling plant. Drink it or sink it before you recycle it.

2. Tim Hortons or styrofoam cups are not recyclable. Every cup that is mistakenly thrown in a recycling bin brings everything in that bin one step closer to being thrown out as trash.

3. Tissues or napkins are not recyclable. Tissue, paper towel and napkins are all considered personal hygiene or clean-up products, which are not accepted as recyclables.

4. You don't have to remove paper clips and staples from recycled paper. Windowed envelopes and taped pages can also be recycled.

5. Where can I get a small recycling bin for my office? Physical Plant is working on an online system to requisition recycling bins for office and lab settings. For the time being, contact the customer service clerks at ext. 24740.

6. What can I throw in my desk-side recycle container? What you place in your desk-side recycler is pretty much up to you, as long as you are able to sort the items yourself. Cans and other recyclables that could spill onto paper should be left outside your bin, and carried along when you dump it.