Ohio State is in the process of revising websites and program materials to accurately reflect compliance with the law. While this work occurs, language referencing protected class status or other activities prohibited by Ohio Senate Bill 1 may still appear in some places. However, all programs and activities are being administered in compliance with federal and state law.

Tagged: Sustainability

  • Six Tons of Hard Cover Books Diverted from Landfill Thanks to Office Cleanouts

    In 2024, the Recycling and Refuse Services team helped divert more than six tons of hard cover books from the landfill through our hard cover book recycling program, thanks in large part to faculty and staff who reached out during office cleanouts.

    These cleanouts provide an excellent opportunity to responsibly recycle large volumes of materials that accumulate over time. Whether you're moving offices, clearing out storage, or just doing a bit of spring, or (fall) cleaning, Ohio State’s Zero Waste team is here to help make your efforts more sustainable.

  • Buckeyes Take Top Spot in Big Ten Recycling Rankings

    The results are in, and The Ohio State University is leading the Big Ten in recycling - and leaving that team up north in the dust.

    Ohio State placed first in the Big Ten and among all Ohio colleges in the Per Capita Recycling category of the 2025 Campus Race to Zero Waste competition, with an impressive 16.9 pounds of recycling per person. This category measures how much material is diverted from landfills per person - a true team effort from the Buckeye community.

  • Tips for an Eco-Friendly Holiday

    Are you preparing for an Independence Day holiday gathering? Here are a few tips to help you and your guests have an eco-friendly 4th of July. 

  • Ohio State Launches Textile Recycling Program

    The Ohio State University is taking steps to address a growing environmental issue: textile waste. From June 1 through August 1, Ohio State faculty, staff, and students will have the opportunity to responsibly dispose of their end-of-life clothing through a dedicated recycling drop-off location on campus.

  • Celebrating Trees and Teamwork for Arbor Day

    The 2025 Arbor Day Celebration hosted by Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens brought together students, faculty, staff and volunteers in a tribute to Ohio State’s ever-growing tree canopy and the dedicated crews behind it. 

    Among the event’s highlights was the recognition of Ohio State’s Tree Campus Higher Education Certification, a prestigious designation that reflects the university’s long-standing commitment to tree care and education. 

  • In the News: Ohio State Awarded 2024 Ohio EPA Recycle Ohio Grant

    The Ohio State University has been awarded the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 2024 Recycle Ohio Grant to support the Post-Consumer Waste Bin Transition Project at Ohio Stadium, furthering the university's commitment to sustainability. The grant enabled Ohio State to upgrade 20 waste stations in the club levels, transitioning from a two-bin (recycle/compost) system to a three-bin (trash/recycle/compost) system.

  • Reducing Campus Waste One Drop at a Time

    In an effort to promote sustainability and reduce plastic waste, six new water bottle refill stations have been installed across The Ohio State University Columbus campus, thanks to a grant from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The initiative, led by former university student and current Zero Waste coordinator, Logan Gould, aims to provide accessible hydration options while encouraging the use of reusable water bottles. 

  • Ohio State Recognized for Encouraging Environmental Excellence, Reducing Carbon Emissions

    The Ohio State University has been awarded the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) most prestigious recognition, the Encouraging Environmental Excellence (E3) Platinum Achievement Award for 2024. 

    “This honor reflects Ohio State’s commitment to resource stewardship and efficiency,” said Mary Leciejewski, associate director of environmental sustainability for Facilities Operations and Development (FOD). “It reaffirms our position as a leader in higher education and healthcare sustainability practices.”

  • The Ohio State University Earns Tree Campus Higher Education Distinction

    The Arbor Day Foundation recognized The Ohio State University as a 2024 Tree Campus for its dedication to enhancing community well-being through tree education, investment and community engagement. 

  • Scarlet, Gray and Green: Ohio State’s Race to Zero Waste Starts Now!

    Campus Race to Zero Waste has officially kicked off! For the next eight weeks, Ohio State will be competing against universities across the nation to see who can achieve the highest landfill diversion rate! This is our chance to show our commitment to sustainability, and we need your help! 

    How You Can Make a Difference 

    Whether you're in the office, classroom, or lab, everyone plays a part in reducing waste on campus. Here’s how you can support Ohio State’s zero waste goal and help us lead the pack: