Your browser is unsupported

We recommend using the latest version of IE11, Edge, Chrome, Firefox or Safari.

Recycling and Zero Waste

What is Zero Waste?

Zero waste is a concept that minimizes waste production and recycles any other waste. Recycling is not only  required by Illinois Law, but it keeps waste out of landfills and incinerators and provides manufacturers with recycled instead of raw materials to make new goods.

Zero waste also helps address social inequities by reducing the sourcing and production of raw materials which contributes to pollution and ecological damage that destabilizes communities and impacts human health. It also helps keep materials out of landfills, which reduces the need to build new landfills - which are often built in areas that already carry higher environmental justice burdens.

Here you will find what and where you can recycle on campus, more sustainable alternatives, and information about zero waste events.

Did you know that 42% of all greenhouse gas emissions are caused by the production and use of goods, including food, products, and packaging? That’s why at UIC, everyone has a role to play in the zero waste university goal to achieve a 90% diversion rate by 2050.