The Office of Sustainability’s annual move-in weekend cardboard recycling program introduces new students to campus recycling efforts.
This year, volunteers helped students and parents recycle 14 tons of cardboard during move-in weekend.
The event is held each year as an effort to move the University toward its stated sustainability goal of increasing its campuswide diversion rate to 50% by fiscal year 2035. Almost half of everything thrown away was recycled.
Cardboard is a high-volume recyclable throughout the year on campus, and as part of the WVU single stream recycling system, it can be placed in the same bin as other recyclable materials. Other materials include paper and drink cartons, aluminum and steel cans, plastics and glass — brown, clear, and green.
The following are some tips to ensure recycling success for faculty, staff and students:
Empty liquids from containers before recycling.
Avoid “wish-cycling.” If you’re unsure whether an item is recyclable, place it in the landfill bin to reduce contamination.
Plastic bags can be recycled at most local grocery stores but not on campus.
Paper towels and napkins are commonly misplaced in recycling bins. These items belong in the landfill bin.
Find more information on how to get involved in sustainability efforts.
To learn more about WVU Sustainability, follow @letsconservewvu on Instagram and X, and @wvusustainability on Facebook.