Portland State University
OP-23: Waste Diversion

PSU Recycles! is dedicated to creating a sustainable campus by reducing waste, expanding recycling opportunities, and increasing campus recycling and composting rates. During FY15, PSU Recycles! was responsible for diverting over 464.2 tons of paper, cardboard, plastic and metal; 26 tons of glass, 241.2 tons of organic material, and 23 tons of other materials such shredded paper, rigid plastics, and Styrofoam from the landfill. Partnership with Sequential Bio-fuels to recycle all waste cooking oil into bio-diesel. Every gallon of waste cooking oil recycled into bio-diesel prevents 16 pounds of carbon dioxide from being released in to the atmosphere. Over 3 tons of cooking oil was recycled in FY2015. Food waste is collected for composting in all dining locations, including several post-consumer stations in Viking Food Court. A residential composting program was started in December 2015. Food waste in many department break-rooms is collected for composting. Toner cartridge recycling is offered across campus. Styrofoam, batteries, and electronics are all collected for special recycling through the work order system. The PSU ReUse Room redistributes donated office and school supplies for free to the campus community, and the Surplus Property Program redistributes reusable office and classroom furniture to PSU departments or the community. Approximately an estimated 5.6 tons of these items were saved for reuse in FY2015. Chuck-it-for-Charity program collects reusable items from departing students each term and donates them to charitable organizations. In FY2015, 10.9 tons of reusable items were donated from the program. Cardboard and Styrofoam recycling collection receptacles are provided during student move-in, and the waste hauler provides extra pickups. Tray-less dining in Victors Dining Hall reduces food waste by 25-30% per person. Water Bottle Refilling Stations around campus allow users to easily refill their water bottles with filtered water, reducing waste associated with purchased throw-away plastic bottles.

Leftover (pre-served) or surplus food goes to Blanchett House Charity.

All pre-consumer food waste is collected in the kitchens for composting.

Food waste is collected for composting in all dining locations, including several post-consumer stations in Viking Food Court. A residential composting program for students who live on campus was started in December 2014. Food waste in many department break-rooms is collected for composting.