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

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 flyer — Print out your personal copy of the recycling flyer to have in your dorm or office space. Available in multiple languages.
Recycling Operations — Learn how recycling works at UK.
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!
Recycling Containers — Check out the containers we have to recycle different materials.

Composting

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:

Wildcat Composting Program — Explore UK's composting opportunities for campus.
Food Waste & Organic Composting Program — Learn about food and organic waste composting at UK.
Brown Paper Towel Program — Learn how brown paper towels are being composted at UK.
UK Composting video — See UK's composting operations in action.

Get Involved

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:

Events — Check out the waste reduction events we host on campus! Follow us on social media to stay up to date.
Sustainable Office Certification Program — Learn more about this exciting opportunity for on-campus offices!
Big Blue Recycling Crew — A group of students who focus on reducing waste at home football games.
Student Sustainability Resources — Learn more about UK Sustainability's involvement opportunities.

Zero-Waste Resources

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

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 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.
DIY Fix it — Do you want to learn how to fix your bike or tips on mending clothes? These Fix it guides are perfect for you.
Waste Audit Worksheet — Are you curious about how much waste you generate? This worksheet was made just for you.

The Path to a Zero-Waste Campus

Check out the reports below to see how we're progressing towards our goal of becoming a zero-waste campus by 2030.

UK Recycling's Annual Report — Check out our annual report to see our current waste reduction efforts.
UK's Waste Characterization Study — Want a more in-depth look at the waste generated at UK? Check out these studies to learn more.
FAQ — Have questions about UK's operations? Check out the FAQ!

Stay up to date with UK Recycling!