Compost Pilot Program
Join UIC in reducing waste and creating a more sustainable campus
PSPM is piloting a compost program that is available to everyone in the campus community. Participants collect their own food scraps and compostable material and bring it to a compost bin located near the south entrance to the Commons West residence hall. A short online training is required to become part of the program.
Why compost?
How does the program work?
To keep the compost stream clean and effective, this pilot program uses a secure bin with controlled access. To join the program and gain access to the bin, complete the following steps:
Step 1: Read this page carefully.
Step 2: Take a short quiz to confirm your understanding.
Step 3: Upon passing, you’ll receive access to the compost bin located outdoors at the south entrance to the Commons West residence hall.
Step 4: Start bringing your compost to the central bin.
NOTE: UIC employees will not accept compost from program participants. They must bring their food scraps to the bin themselves.
Why compost?
A 2019 waste audit showed that about 30% of what is currently thrown away at UIC is food waste and other compostables. When food waste and other compostable materials end up in landfills, they release methane, a powerful greenhouse gas. Composting helps:
- Reduce landfill waste
- Cut greenhouse gas emissions
- Turn food scraps and certified compostables into nutrient-rich soil
- Support the UIC Zero Waste and Carbon Neutral climate commitments
Composting is a small action that makes a big impact on the environment.
What can be composted?
- All food scraps
- Paper napkins and soiled pizza boxes
- Coffee grounds, tea bags and wooden stir sticks or chopsticks
- BPI compostable products that clearly show the BPI certification label
Download a detailed list of what is okay to compost.
UIC compost is taken to a commercial compost facility that can accept more types of products than home composting.
Remember: “When in doubt, throw it out” so the compost doesn’t become contaminated.
Have questions or need more information?
Email sustainability@uic.edu