Recycling and Waste Management
NIU is committed to recycling as part of our long-term goal of achieving a waste diversion rate of 100% (zero waste). Our contract with Waste Management, our waste hauler, determines some of our current recycling practices, which include:
- Commingled (single-stream) recycling of plastics, paper, glass and aluminum across campus
- Collection/recycling of electronic waste (e-waste) generated by university departments according to state regulations
- Proper recycling of batteries, lightbulbs and ink/toner cartridges used on campus
Building Services, Environmental Health and Safety and Materials Management work together to support campus recycling.
Learn more about recycling procedures at NIU.
Goals and Actions
The university continues to explore ways to reduce and/or divert waste, including that generated by food and dining operations and construction/demolition projects. We work toward our goal of zero waste by:
- Conducting an audit to gain a more thorough understanding of campus waste streams
- Developing/implementing a variety of programs and methods to reduce/divert waste, including the possible installation of biodigesters that use food waste as an alternative to natural gas
- Encouraging education on waste diversion and providing data on campus waste generation, as well as resources on recycling, composting and waste disposal
Huskie Closet
The Huskie Closet began as a student project. It provides a way for the university community to divert used clothing from landfills, while supporting Huskies in need. The closet accepts donations of clothes, shoes and seasonal items from students, employees and community members. Students can then visit the closet to get needed items for free.