Setup recycling bins for plastic, glass, and metal

Problem: Laboratories produce a large portion of the solid waste on campuses and the University of California has committed to divert 75% of their waste by 2012 and go zero waste by 2020. For more information on this commitment check out the UC Policy on Sustainable Practices. At this time reagent bottles are not recyclable.

Solution: Setting up recycling bins in the lab for commonly used items can divert useable materials from being dumped in landfills. Unless you are in Bren or Ellison Hall, lab occupants or other volunteers must bring these items to the recycling stations outside your building a minimum of every other day. This will prevent rodents and other pests and will help us reduce the use of more dangerous methods of pest control. Make sure the bins are clearly marked and visible. Please remove bottle tops. Be sure items are rinsed to further avoid pests.

Cost: Recycling bins take up space and can be time consuming having to take out more than just one bin.

Benefit: In 2006, UCSB diverted over 1000 tons of mixed recyclables and clean metal from going to the landfill.