The University of Arizona

Materials

Sustainable practices for material use on campus have been addressed in a number of ways. These include reducing the waste stream, obtaining materials closer to their end destination, recycling, developing specifications for recycled content and other sustainable qualities, limiting hazardous characteristics of materials, and properly managing hazardous wastes. Investigate the links below to learn more.

RecyclingReuse of site materials in new campus construction reduces the need for new materials keeps old materials out of landfills. A recent example of this on campus is with the Architecture Addition landscape, where masonry waste rubble was used as cobbles in water conveyance swales.

Facilities Management Recycling and Waste Management Program


The UA Recycling and Waste Management Program coordinates recycling and waste hauling for the UA Campus and outlying areas. It also coordinates education, events, and waste reduction efforts.

The program's goal is to provide efficient, friendly trash and recycling services to the Campus community. We seek to divert as much material from the landfill as possible, therefore saving landfill costs and earning revenue.

Residence Life Recycling Program


Residence Life at the University of Arizona is dedicated to preserving the environment by facilitating an ongoing recycling program in each residence hall and in La Aldea graduate student housing. We provide education on recycling as well as environmental preservation by enabling students to become ecologically responsible individuals through the use of programming and practices. The recycling program through Residence Life collects a massive amount of recycling during student move-in and move-out and also coordinates an extensive Recylemania competition between the halls.

Residence Life Recycling was awarded the Governor's Pride in Arizona Award for its outstanding recycling program. Governor's Pride in Arizona Awards recognize the efforts made by individuals and groups to enhance their communities and protect Arizona's environment. This is the only statewide environmental award program that recognizes Arizona communities, businesses, and organizations that have demonstrated a commitment to the environmental quality of Arizona through innovative, sustainable programs to improve the quality of life.

Reducing Impacts of Toxic and Hazardous Materials

The University creates the same types of waste that typical businesses and residences do, but also manages wastes related to specific research conducted at the University.

Below are several examples of how the University is working to reduce the presence and/or need to dispose of toxic wastes:

  • Many mercury thermometers have been traded in for alcohol thermometers.
  • More effective tracking and management of substances have been implemented (80+ tons per year).
  • Biowaste is now segregated in a way that allows for disposal by autoclave instead of incineration of 1,000 pounds of biowaste per year.
  • Fluorescent light bulbs: current specifications call for low-mercury fluorescent bulbs (green ends) that are safe to dispose in the trash.
  • The UA Chemistry Department implemented use of micro-glassware in order to reduce chemical costs and reduce hazardous waste.
  • Chromate is no longer being used in chillers.

Indoor air quality impacts the health and productivity of residents and employees. Following are several examples of how the University is working to reduce these impacts:

  • Use of low-impact cleaning products is being explored.
  • Steps being taken to reduce mold include the use of water-resistant drywall and preventive measures to avoid potential flood/leak problems.