Zero Waste

Trash

What is trash and how is it processed at Sonoma State University?

Most folks consider trash to be anything to dispose of.  Trash is also known as waste.  However there are many important reasons to consider what happens to something when you no longer need or want it. Sonoma State University is committed to minimizing the amount of waste diverted to our landfills. 

Recycling

Recycling takes something you've used and allows it to be reused, remanufactured or repurposed into something that can be used again. 

Keep your recyclables loose and clean - all containers need to be cleaned and rinsed of all food material prior to recycling. Recycling items need to be placed in recycling bin as individual items un-bagged. Please do not put plastic bags in the recycling bins as they tend to jam our recycling machinery. Note: Kitchen/waste trash bags are not recyclable. Please empty recyclable contents into the recycling bin and dispose of your kitchen/waste bag into the trash bin

Composting

Food waste thrown in the garbage ends up in the land fill and creates methane gas. Both greenhouse gases (GHG), methane gas is 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide, as it traps heat more efficiently. With your help, SSU is keeping close to 156 tons of food waste and compostable materials out of the landfill each year.

Electronic Waste 

Also known as E-waste, it is important that these items are separated from trash that ends up in the landfill as some contact toxic chemicals that can be leached into the soil or the components can be repurposed for other uses. We have collection containers identified as E-Waste where you can leave used:

• Batteries
  
• Small electronics
• Discs and CDs
• Ink Cartridges
• Cell phones
• Monitors (LCD or CRT)
• If you have a large item, please place a work order 

Items you no longer want

If you have an item such as clothing, furniture, an appliance, etc. that you no longer have a need for, but that is still in usable condition, please consider donating it.  There are many organizations throughout the area that accept donations and this enables them to support their organizations and the critical work they do.  

Landfill

Anything you can not recycle, compost or does not qualify as E-waste should go in the landfill/trash receptacle.

Franchise Agreement

In compliance with AB 2048, we have made available the franchise agreement with Recology, the company that provides Sonoma State University's Recycling, Compost and Landfill Service. 

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Sonoma State University is devoted to implementing sustainable practices in every way possible.  A clear way to measure our performance is through The Sustainability Tracking Assessment & Rating (STARS) System in addition to receiving updates from committed staff members. Our initiatives are constantly changing with developing programs and regulations—check back regularly for the latest achievements and plans.