Queen鈥檚 University is committed to reducing the environmental impact of waste through comprehensive waste disposal and recycling practices. By following proper waste management guidelines, members of the campus community can help minimize landfill waste, support sustainability initiatives, and contribute to a cleaner, more environmentally responsible campus. These guidelines apply to all individuals on Queen鈥檚 University property, including employees, students, contractors, service providers, and visitors.
Queen's Recycling Program
General Waste (Landfill)
Items that cannot be recycled should be appropriately disposed of by placing them in the designated Landfill bin. It is crucial to ensure that these items are not mixed with other bins to prevent contamination of recyclable materials. Common examples of Landfill Items include and are not limited to: Fountain Cups & Food Wrappers, Condiment Packages, Foil, Plastic Shopping Bags, To-Go Coffee Cups (unless deemed as compostable, which should be placed in the green Organics bin).
Cans, Glass & Plastic
Plastics, aluminum, and glass materials can pose a significant threat to wildlife and the environment if not properly managed. To prevent harm to the ecosystem and promote the reuse of these materials, please make sure to place items such as plastic food containers, soda cans, and glass bottles in the designated Cans, Glass & Plastic blue bin. Common examples of Cans, Glass & Plastic items include and are not limited to: Plastic Food & Beverage Containers, Aluminum and Glass Bottles & Jars. Please note that all items placed in the blue bin need to be rinsed first. Additionally, check if the plastic item(s) are made of compostable plastics - if so, they should be placed in the green Organics Bin.
Mixed Paper
Paper and cardboard-based materials should be placed in the designated Mixed Paper recycling bin. Please ensure that the paper and cardboard items are free from any food residue or contamination. Any food contaminated cardboard/paper items should be placed in the Organics bin. Common examples of Mixed Paper Items include and are not limited to: Newspaper, Shredded Paper, Printed Paper, File Folders, Magazines Boxboard (i.e., Cereal Boxes). Cardboard boxes should be flattened and placed behind recycling bins.
Organics
Composting is an effective way to reduce landfill waste and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, any leftover food items, materials classified as compostable (such as compostable cups and plates), and food-soiled cardboard should be properly placed in the designated green Organics bin.
Waste & Recycling Signage
Below are downloadable Waste & Recycling signage posters that can be distributed to staff, posted in your office or displayed when hosting a conference or event.
Waste Disposal & Recycling Handbook
Check out our Guide to Recycling and Waste Disposal Handbook on the right!
This handbook outlines disposal guidelines for items ranging from office supplies to furniture to lab equipment. In the development of this handbook, we strove for accessibility, readability, and overall ease of use. We hope to continually improve this handbook, so please feel free to contact our Resource Recovery and Sustainability Specialist if you have any questions or feedback.
We hope you find this handbook useful and take the time to explore its contents!