After the recycling is collected on campus, where does it go?
All of WVU’s recycling is taken to the Republic Services Transfer Station in the Morgantown Industrial Park. Republic transports the material to a Materials Recovery Facility (MRF). This facility sorts and bales the materials to sell them to wholesalers that eventually turn the commodities into other materials and products.
What is the difference between recycling on campus and off campus?
There are a few different organizations that coordinate recycling in the Morgantown/Monongalia County area. WVU recycling coordinates efforts on WVU’s campuses and in owned and leased spaces off campus. The City of Morgantown has partnered with Republic Services to offer curbside single stream recycling inside city limits. The Monongalia County Commission runs drop off stations at various times and locations in Monongalia County.
Check out this quick video for visual reference of off-campus recycling!
How can I get a desk-side recycling bin?
If a building or department needs new or additional landfill or recycling bins, please contact your building supervisor so they may request these from the operations department in Facilities Management.
Does single stream recycling mean that I can throw used office ink cartridges and retired electronics in the recycling bin?
No. Single stream recycling applies to only plastics, paper, glass, and light metals like aluminum and tin cans. However, we do recycle used ink cartridges and electronics on campus. Please contact us at 304-293-9500 for further instructions on how to properly recycle such items.
Can I recycle paper towels, tissues, and napkins?
Not at this time. The items above are compostable, but WVU does not currently have a composting program. Please place those items in the landfill bin.
What do I do with shredded paper?
Shredded paper is recyclable. Please keep it contained in a separate bag before placing it in the recycling bin. WVU has partnered with PACE Shredding for confidential document destruction on a larger scale. PACE will pick up boxes of confidential materials, shred them securely, and offer a certificate of destruction and invoice directly to WVU departments. To learn more about this service, visit http://wecan.wvu.edu/sustainability/recycling/shredding.
Are books recyclable?
Yes. Paperback books can be directly deposited into the recycling bin. Hardback books must have the covers removed. WVU conducts a biannual book recycling drive free of charge, usually in January and July.
Can I put cardboard in recycling bins?
Many items used in an office setting come packaged in chipboard, which is flat cardboard found on items like tissue boxes and microwave dinners. Chipboard can be placed in the recycling bin. Cardboard that is used for items like computers and shipped packages is usually corrugated. Corrugated cardboard can be flattened and placed beside the nearest indoor recycling station or taken outside many buildings to a designated cardboard dumpster.
I couldn't finish my lunch. Can I recycle my plastic container with food remnants still inside?
Food and beverage contents can contaminate other recyclables inside the bin. In many cases, this will make commodities like paper virtually un-recyclable. Please rinse out all food and beverage contents from containers before placing them in the recycling bin.
Do I have to remove the lid from my plastic bottle?
No. We can recycle that plastic too!
What do I do when my bin gets dirty?
Wiping your bin down periodically with a wet, soapy paper towel or cleaning wipe should be all the cleaning it needs.
Why is single stream recycling important?
Single stream recycling and empty-your-own trash are two ways in which WVU has chosen to conserve resources. Dozens of universities across the country have introduced empty-your-own trash systems with great success. The capacity of desk-side bins means that many employees may only need to empty theirs a few times per week. In order to make the program successful, everyone must do his or her part.