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Centralized Waste Collection

As part of its commitment to promote sustainability, Ontario Tech University is taking steps to reduce the volume of waste generated on campus and sent to landfills; and improve our recycling rates. To help reach these goals, the university has introduced a centralized garbage and recycling collection system.

With this system, you sort and dispose of waste and recycling in communal bins positioned in designated common areas around campus, including each floor of all university buildings and high-traffic areas.

Note: Classrooms will continue to have waste and recycling bins available. Office areas have the option for desk-side recycle bins, but they must be sorted by the occupant into the commual bins. 

For more information, contact sustainability@ontariotechu.ca.

Contribution to Sustainability

  • Contribution to Sustainability

    Waste diversion rate—it's important

    The waste diversion rate measures the amount of waste removed from campus without incineration or landfill disposal. The university conducts annual waste audits with Waste Management Services to track this rate.

    Contribution to sustainability

    Centralized bins help us sort waste better, keep recyclables out of landfills, and reduce our environmental footprint. The bins encourage mindful waste disposal and recycling habits by:

    • Promoting awareness of waste production and disposal.
    • Providing clearly labelled bins that aid in identifying recyclable materials and proper sorting, reducing contamination.
    • Eliminating plastic liners for small desk-side garbage bins, which often become contaminated and are discarded prematurely.

    Community consultation during implementation

    Consultation occurred throughout the planning and implementation process, and it continues as part of our communication strategy. Input was gathered from the Sustainability Committee, Student Union, various committees, and departments, as well as from other institutions with similar programs.

  • Using the Bins

    Locations

    The bins are located in designated common areas around campus, including every floor of university buildings (one to four bins per floor, depending on capacity). They can also be found in high-traffic areas, such as near food services and atriums.

    Features

    The bins are clearly labelled with words and icons indicating the type of waste for each receptacle.

    Organic waste disposal

    At this time, organic (food) waste is not collected in the centralized bins. The university is developing a campus-wide composting program based on the positive response to a food waste collection pilot program at the downtown Oshawa campus location. For now, place all organic waste in the centralized bin's ‘Waste’ receptacle.

    Accessibility considerations

    For individuals with accessibility issues who cannot carry their waste to the centralized bins, contact sustainability@ontariotechu.ca. We will work together to resolve the situation on a case-by-case basis.

    Centralized waste bin management

    Housekeeping staff monitor the centralized bins daily and empty them three times a week or more frequently as needed. This helps prevent bins from overflowing and reduces unpleasant odours.

  • FAQ

    How do centralized waste bins reduce waste?

    The removal of desk side waste bins reduces the amount of single-use plactis bags that are used across campus for all those bins. Furthermore, when you are responsible for disposing of your own waste, you are consciously engaging with the materials rather than discarding them with minimal consideration. This may lead you to choose a reusable item next time (example: swapping a plastic sandwhich bag for a reusable container).

    Can I still have my own desk bin?

    You are welcome to have your own desk side waste bin but plastics bags will not be provided and you will be in charge of emptying it out and managing any smells.

    We do also want to point out that having a personal desk bin tends to show lower rates of waste diversion. We reccomend opting out of the desk side bin and walking to the closest central waste bin to sort your waste properly.

    Is the centralized waste program unique to Ontario Tech?

    No! Many other institutions such as universities, hospitals, municipal offices and large corporations have implemented centralized waste programs. This includes:

    • University of Toronto
    • Durham College
    • Toronto Metropolitan University
    • University of Guelph
    • Harvard University
    • Queens University
    • University Health Network
    • City of Winnipeg
    • Rogers Communications

    Will getting up to throw something out disrupt my work flow?

    Uninterrupted sitting has been shown to be bad for your health. Getting up for a walk to throw out your garbage at the closest central waste bin can reduce your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. For more healthy workplace tips visit the Wellness at Work website.