University’s RecycleMania results show improvement

The 2018 RecycleMania competition results are in, and UNC Charlotte’s showing indicates improvement in sustainable practices across campus. More than 200 colleges and universities participated in this annual competition, which ran from Feb. 4 through March 31.

Highlights from the University’s participation include:

• The University placed in the top 15 percent in a category that evaluated the amount of waste produced per person. This means the campus community is increasingly mindful of consumption habits, eliminating the creation of trash and recyclables in the first place
• The University ranked 10th in a category measuring the number of aluminum cans and bottles recycled
• Halton Arena went from zero percent of waste diversion to more than 50 percent, kick starting the initiative of adding another zero waste facility on campus, alongside Jerry Richardson Stadium
• More than 450 pounds of electronic waste (e-waste) was collected. Donated computers and cell phones are being refurbished and given to economically disadvantaged families
• According to a public trash sort audit of bins around the Prospector Building and CHHS Plaza, 88 percent of waste was properly disposed of by the campus community

Sustainability Office personnel noted this year’s participation will serve as a benchmark for future involvement in RecycleMania competitions. The office will continue to encourage adoption of sustainable practices throughout the year, which should be reflected in further improvement in next year’s competition.