Waste Reduction & Recycling

Help keep campus sustainable by reducing waste, recycling correctly, preventing contamination, and supporting reuse, composting, and responsible materials management.


Recycling Basics

With an expanding campus and community, it is important to recycle correctly. Contamination in recycling bins can result in large quantities of recyclable material being sent to the landfill instead. Recycle right, and when in doubt, throw it out.

Recycle Right

Use campus recycling bins for accepted recyclable materials and help reduce landfill waste across campus.

Avoid Contamination

Food residue, mixed materials, and non-recyclable items can contaminate a bin and prevent materials from being properly processed.


Campus Recycling Awareness

CSU has participated in RecycleMania since 2005 as a nationwide voluntary recycling competition that promotes student, faculty, and staff awareness of waste minimization and recycling efforts.


Additional Diversion Options

CSU offers several ways to help divert usable or recyclable materials from the landfill, including Surplus Property, the move-out donation program, and battery collection.

Surplus Property

CSU Surplus Property supports reuse, resale, and recycling of university-owned items. Special e-waste collection is also available for unwanted or broken electronics for a service fee.

Move-Out Donation Program

The move-out donation program helps keep gently used items out of the landfill during student move-out while supporting community partners and local nonprofits.

Battery Collection

Special battery collection buckets are located around campus. Accepted batteries include alkaline, NiCad, gel pack, and rechargeable types.

Call for collection support:
970-491-0113


Zero Waste Events

Planning a zero waste event starts with the basics: provide compost, recycling, and trash bins in visible locations, choose reusable serviceware when possible, and help attendees sort materials correctly.

Place Bins Clearly

Provide compost, recycling, and trash bins in visible, convenient locations.

Choose Reusables

Use reusable plates, cups, and utensils when possible.

Sort Correctly

Help people sort items correctly and keep recyclables clean.

Need Help Planning?

For expanded planning resources, Green @ CSU also offers a sustainability event guide.


Questions About Trash, Recycling, or Composting?

For questions about trash, recycling, or composting at CSU, contact Jennifer Williams at 970-491-0122 or email the Trash & Recycling team.