Waste Reduction
GAME PLAN
Michigan Athletics is committed to the University's waste reduction goals by reducing the amount of waste produced and diverting as much waste as possible to recycling and compost facilities. In 2013, Michigan Athletics introduced composting for all back-of-house food preparation at Michigan Stadium. In 2017, compostable waste collection began in the fan areas of the stadium. Recycling is collected at all Athletic facilities.Â
Every year, Michigan Athletics strives to divert at least half of the waste produced from landfills by recycling and composting. We have achieved that goal for the last four years in a row. Waste diversion data is tracked here.Â
LONG-RANGE GOALS
- Limit solid waste production
- Achieve an average annual waste diversion rate of at least 50%
- Expand composting opportunities
INITIATIVES
- Customized recycling signage
- Standardized waste containers
- Back of house compost collection
WHAT GOES WHERE?
All athletic facilities have recycling, and many have compost services as well. Check the signs on and near bins for guidance on where to place items.
What Can Be Recycled?
- Cardboard (please flatten!): all paperboard, paper bags, corrugated cardboard, boxboard, milk cartons, juice boxes
- Paper: newspapers, magazines, catalogs, glossy fliers/mailers, junk mail, envelopes, non-metallic wrapping paper, office and notebook paper, telephone books
- Plastic bottles
- Plastic buckets, milk crates and plant pots
- Aluminum cans
- Aluminum foil
- Condiments (e.g., creamer containers)
What Cannot Be Recycled?
- Glass bottles and jars
- Plasticware
- Waxed-coated paper cups (e.g., Gatorade cups)
- Candy wrappers
Unsure Where Something Goes?
Use the U-M's Where to Throw tool. By avoiding contamination, you’ll help ensure that recyclables can be remanufactured into new items and that compostable items become quality soil!
