Waste

NC State is a leader in waste research and strategies to conserve both environmental and economic resources.

NC State’s interdisciplinary waste research and management strategies play a vital role in conserving both environmental and economic resources on campus and beyond. This leadership contributes to global efforts to mitigate climate change and foster a culture of environmental stewardship.

NC State actively creates procedures and promotes a culture where source reduction of materials is the first priority for waste reduction followed by reuse and recycling.

61%

of campus waste was diverted from the landfill in fiscal year 2021.

Campus waste reduction efforts are guided by NC State Waste Reduction and Recycling.

Lance Newsome of the Central Receiving and Surplus Warehouse disassembles a computer tower, which contains precious metals. These metals can only be recycled if removed from the computer tower first.

Reuse

NC State uses reuse programs to extend a product’s life cycle and divert materials from landfills.

Learn more

Compost

Food waste and other organic materials can be composted at the NC State Compost Facility and Research Cooperative.

Learn how to compost

Mr Wuf holding a small blue recycling bin and putting a plastic water bottle inside while standing outside on campus grounds

Recycle

Recycling cans, bottles, cardboard and paper is one of the easiest ways recover economic and environmental benefits.

Read the Recycling Guide

NC State Waste Reduction and Recycling
Wolfpack Guide to Zero Waste – Use this guidebook for tips on how to live, learn, lead and take action for zero waste on campus.
Zero Waste at NC State – Learn how NC State strives for zero waste.
Recycling and Solid Waste Reduction – View resources on recycling from NC State Extension, the largest outreach program at NC State.

NC State’s waste reduction efforts are rooted in numerous data-driven studies and sustainability-related policies, procedures, and commitments.

CAMPUS COMMITMENTS

Wolfpack 2030: Powering the Extraordinary
University-wide Sustainability Policy
2019 Waste Characterization Study
2015 Waste Characterization Study
Campus Sustainability Standard Operating Procedures
Sustainability Strategic Plan, which provides a five-year comprehensive roadmap for advancing campus sustainability. Every year tactics are updated and progress is reported in NC State’s Annual Sustainability Report
Physical Master Plan
Centennial Master Plan
University Construction Guidelines
All new construction built to LEED – Silver standards, announced spring 2008
2011 Self Service Recycling and Waste

OTHER COMMITMENTS

University of North Carolina General Administration Sustainability Policy, – Universities shall develop policies and programs that
work toward achieving zero waste, 2009
Commitment to Environmental Sustainability-Guiding Principles, 1999

N.C. COMMITMENTS

Session Law 1989 (Senate Bill 111) – mandates state entities to recycle and reduce waste, 1989
North Carolina General Statute 130A-309.10(f-m) – establishes disposal bans on a wide range of materials such as oil filters, plastic bottles and wooden pallets, 1983
North Carolina General Statute 130A-310.60 – recycle fluorescent bulbs and thermostats generated in public buildings, 1983
NC Executive Order 156 – state government environmental sustainability, reduction in solid waste and procurement of environmentally preferable purchasing, 1998
NC General Statute 143-58.2 – purchase of products with recycled content, 1994
NC General Statute 143-58.3 – purchase of recycled paper and paper products, 1994

Student holds a mini green compost bin with Mr Wuf who is holding a blue recycling bin

1. Refuse: Just say no to unnecessary goods in your life.

2. Reuse: Make do with items you already own or borrow them.

3. BYO: Bring your own bag, bottle or “whatever” to avoid single-use items.

4. Compost: Food scraps, paper towels, & other compostable materials can all be diverted from the landfill by composting.

5. Recycle: Cans, bottles, paper and cardboard can all be recycled.

6. Get Involved: Join sustainable student organizations that promote zero waste, like the Zero Waste Wolves, Sustainability Stewards and Environmental Student Association.