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The University of Kentucky Recycling Program’s goal is to facilitate the waste reduction efforts of the University, including recycling, to become a zero-waste campus. We strive to significantly reduce the University’s waste by offering comprehensive recycling and waste reduction programs, outstanding service, and excellent outreach and education.

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Initiatives

Recycling



UK Student recycling in the Gatton Student Center

Recycling reduces University of Kentucky’s landfill waste while also supporting local Kentucky recycling centers and jobs.

At UK, we have various resources to help you recycle properly.

  • Recycling containers — Check out the containers we have to recycle different materials.
  • Recycling operations — Learn how recycling works at UK.
  • BBN Tackles Plastic — A plastic bag collection program available in the residence halls.
  • Recycling flyer — Print out your personal copy of the recycling flyer to have in your dorm or office space. Available in multiple languages.
  • All in the Hall — Learn about our classroom building initiative to improve recycling in the hallways.
  • Residence halls — Do you live in the dorms? Learn how to recycle in the dorms today.
  • Compactor and dumpster map — Looking for a recycling dumpster near you? Check out this map!
  • Behind the Blue Bins — Watch and discover what happens when you recycle on campus!

Composting



the augur moving at UK Recycling's new composting system

UK’s composting operation began 2019 in partnership with Sustainability, Recycling, Dining, and the College of Agriculture, Food, and Environment.
Learn more about our composting programs: 

 

Get Involved



UK Student making a smoothie on the smoothie bike at the Sustainability Festival.

At UK, there are many ways for the wildcat community to get involved with our zero-waste initiatives. Learn of various ways you can get involved:

 

Zero-Waste Resources



A student filling a reusable water bottle at a hydration station

UK Recycling provides various resources to help you reduce your waste whether you’re hosting events or looking to audit your own waste.

  • The Thrifty Cat — University of Kentucky's campus free store.
  • IDK Recycling bin — Curious if a specific item is recyclable? The IDK Recycling bin is here to help.
  • Hydration Station — Hosting an outdoor event on campus? Consider requesting the free hydration station for your event!
  • Reuse Resource Map — Selling unwanted items and buying secondhand is a great way to reduce your waste. Check out this map for local spots where you can donate or thrift.
  • Food Waste Resources — A list of resources to help you manage your waste!

Our Journey to a Zero-Waste Campus



UK's Wildcat recycling a plastic bottle outside the Gatton Student Center.

Check out the reports below to see how we're progressing towards our goal of becoming a zero-waste campus.