The Campus Race to Zero Waste is underway, and Ohio State is once again stepping up to compete with colleges and universities across the country. Over the next eight weeks, Buckeyes will work together to increase our landfill diversion rate and prove that sustainability is a team sport.
This competition isn’t just about numbers. It’s about everyday actions adding up to real impact. Whether you’re in an office, classroom, lab, or residence hall, your choices matter, and they can help Ohio State rise to the top.
Simple Ways to Make an Impact
Know What Goes in the Recycling Bin
Ohio State’s recycling program accepts a wide range of materials, including:
- Plastic cups, jugs, tubs, and bottles (please leave the lids on!)
- Clear clamshell containers (like carry-out containers, berry containers, and egg cartons)
- Paper, cardboard, paper coffee cups/fountain drink cups, and cartons (like soy milk or broth cartons)
- Pizza boxes (a little grease is OK!)
- Glass bottles and jars
- Metal food and beverage cans
- At the Wexner Medical Center, paper documents should go in shredding bins to protect patient privacy.
Keep It Clean
Empty, clean, and dry recyclables help keep the recycling stream working properly. Food and liquids cause contamination and can prevent materials from being recycled.
Recycle Where You Are
Every campus building is equipped with recycling - look for the red “RECYCLE” bins or other clearly labeled containers.
When in Doubt, Look It Up
Unsure about an item? Ohio State’s recycling FAQs are a quick way to get clear answers and recycle with confidence.
Think Beyond the Bin!
Some materials don’t belong in the commingled recycling bins. Use SWACO’s search tool to find local recycling options for specialty items that aren’t accepted on campus.
Compost Counts
Food scraps and compostable items make up a large portion of our waste stream. Use the green compost bins available across campus, or sign up for Ohio State’s free compost drop-off program to divert even more from the landfill.
Every bottle, box, and banana peel sorted correctly helps move Ohio State closer to zero waste. Let’s show the rest of the country what Buckeyes can do together!
If you have any questions about recycling or composting on campus, contact recycle@osu.edu.