Waste Management
UF, through waste reduction and recycling initiatives, achieves a waste recovery rate of nearly 40%. Using a mixture of in-house and contracted resources, the University recycles over 6,500 tons of material annually. Additionally, UF strives to recycle at least 60% of its deconstruction debris.
To assure that electronic equipment with the potential to create environmental contamination is properly managed, UF established an Electronics Reuse/Recycling Policy as well as an accompanying step-by-step guide for disposal and recycling, and an asset recovery program that is administered by Asset Management.
UF has a TailGator Game Day Recycling Program. The Office of Sustainability, Solid Waste Management, PPD Grounds staff, and student groups work together to collect home-game recyclables. In 2006, this volunteer driven effort diverted over 17,000lbs from the landfill.
University Housing also provides recycling in the dormitories on campus and has a move out program that works with local area charities to recycle re-usable furniture and supplies.
Business Partner
Follett is working on a Green Textbook initiative for the University Bookstore. This program will help reduce the impact that a college education has on the environment by encouraging publishers to use a minimum of 30% post consumer recycled paper. In addition this program will work to educate professors and provide information as to which publishers are participating in the program.
Pepsi is committed to improving sustainability by participating in the
campus-wide recycling program and Dining Services reusable mug program.
Additionally, Pepsi is planning to test solar vending machines on-campus
this fall.
Give Us Your Feedback
University Solid Waste Management is responsible for handling waste management issues for the University.
Student
Housing Residents can submit proposals to the Department
of Housing Recycling Committee for projects that will improve
or increase recycling and recycling awareness in Village Housing.
In Context
Over 220 million tons of municipal solid waste or garbage is generated in the United States each year. This means each person generates an average of over 4 pounds of solid waste per day.
The University of Florida generates over 14,000 tons of waste. Currently,
about 40%, or about 6,000 tons is recycled. Much of the waste generated
and recycled is from construction debris and landscaping/grounds
management.
