Recycling

 

Policy Summary

The  university is  committed  to  protecting  and  improving  the  environment  by recycling commonly used materials such as mixed paper, cardboard, plastic/glass containers, and aluminum/tin/steel cans (referred  to as the  “Commingled-Single  Stream  System”),  scrap metals, hazardous materials such as batteries, electronic equipment, mercury-containing lamps, and motor/cooking oil. All members of the university must comply with the recycling requirements in this policy.   

Related Regulations

The university is required to have a recycling program pursuant to regulations issued by both the D.C. Government and Loudoun County, Virginia. The university also must dispose of hazardous materials in accordance with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations. 

Who is Governed by this Policy 

• Students
• Staff
• Faculty

Policy

GW disposes of recyclable materials produced on GW campuses in accordance with local and federal recycling regulations and GW provides and maintains containers for recyclable materials throughout GW-owned buildings and on the streets within campus boundaries. For reference, description and photographs of collection stations for most items as well as how to dispose of various types of recyclables, see: https://facilities.gwu.edu/recycling-and-waste or https://sustainability.gwu.edu/resources.

Definitions

Common Recyclable Material: Recyclable materials include: mixed papers and cardboard, plastic bottles, glass bottles (clear, brown, Material and green), aluminum/tin/steel cans, electronic equipment, toner cartridges, and cooking grease/oil. 

Hazardous Material: Hazardous materials include: motor oil, rechargeable batteries, mercury containing bulbs and computer 

Related Information

Procedures for Recycling and E-Cycling

GW Roadmap to Zero Waste

Electronic Equipment Recycling Policy 

Hazardous Waste Management Policy

Mercury, Asbestos & Lead-Based Materials Policy

Chapter 1088: The Loudoun County Solid Waste Reduction and Recycling Ordinance

D.C. Municipal Regulation (DCMR) Chapter 20, Title 21

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Standards for Universal Waste Management, 40 CFR Part 273

Contacts