Recycling at Northeastern

Recycling at Northeastern

Preserving the Environment

Our goals are to preserve the environment, reduce the cost of waste disposal, and keep the design of the program simple and convenient to maintain university wide commitment.  To help achieve this, Northeastern uses a multi-stream recycling system.  This practice of separating the different types of recyclable materials reduces contamination, which ensures a higher quality recycling stream and maximizes the value of materials for reprocessing.  Northeastern and our hauler, JRM, follow state guidelines and practices regarding which materials are suitable for recycling.  

 

Multi-Stream Recycling System

 

Mixed Paper 

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placed in separate recycling bins
co-located with trash containers 

 

Glass / Metal / Plastic Containers

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placed in separate recycling bins
co-located with trash containers 

 

Cardboard

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collected in larger hampers located at residential recycling rooms & central areas, or collected by cleaning staff in academic areas

Suitable Recycling Materials

Recycling Can Be Confusing

Practices vary from place to place on how recycling is collected, with many locations collecting recyclable materials all mixed together as a “single stream”.  In addition, items that are acceptable for recycling at home may not be the same for recycling on campus, particularly for students and visitors coming to campus from outside of Massachusetts.  The most common contaminants and recycling mistakes on campus are the following. 

In Doubt? Check the Recyclopedia

Not sure of the recyclability of a specific item, try using the Recyclopedia

Massachusetts DEP Recyclopedia

Quick Links

Related Links

Composting

Composting

Facilities Waste & Recycling has collaborated with Northeastern Dining Services to integrate composting in main dining areas.

Learn more about Composting
Specialty Items

Specialty Items

In addition to commonly recyclable materials, there are numerous items that can be recycled with special handling.

Learn more about Specialty Items
Climate Justice and Sustainability Hub

Climate Justice and Sustainability Hub

Northeastern University Planning, Real Estate, and Facilities plays a significant role in the policies, guidelines, and systems that help Northeastern accelerate the greening of all its campuses.

Learn more about Climate Justice and Sustainability Hub