Most people do not know that trash is nearly FOUR TIMES more expensive than recycling.  It is also TWO TIMES more expensive than composting.  So why not compost and recycle the rightful items in our multitude of wonderful waste receptacles around campus?  Our goal is that our trash is 100% TRASH.  Not compost, not recycling, but all trash so that all other waste can be put in the appropriate containers.

In 2012 the annual Trash Bash recorded that we were hitting close to 80%! Almost there but not quite.  We want 100% trash in our trash bins!

According to our records of the 2013 Trash Bash (taking trash from the IDX Center, Hauke, Jazzman’s, and Ireland), we found that, by weight, there was  5% coffee cups, 27% compostables and liquids, 32% recyclables, and only 36% trash.

This actually shows a decline from years prior.  Be mindful of what you put into the trash and try to think if there is a better home for that compostable coffee cup.  It is a win-win when we help the environment while also saving money, don’t you think?

Make this next year 100% TRASH in the trash bins and swing by next year’s Trash Bash!

By Mae Sullivan ’17, Waste Reduction Coordinator