Stanford
Sustainable Stanford

Waste Initiatives

Stanford’s waste reduction efforts require participation from the entire campus community. A number of initiatives aim to engage the campus in achieving zero waste by using fewer disposable materials, and supporting campus recycling and composting efforts. Implementation of a Zero Waste Plan is underway with the aim of reaching zero waste—90% diversion or higher—by 2030, as laid out by the President and Provost in the long-range planning process. 

Zero Waste Building and Behavior Transition

The University's Zero Waste Plan has adopted a new waste system that incorporates best practices, industry standards, and efficiency standards to ensure all waste is disposed of correctly. This new system will not only help us reach our Zero Waste Goal, but will also reduce touchpoints, keep bins more sanitary, and meet future state regulations. Eight buildings have been selected to pilot the university's new waste system, which implements 8 distinct changes to ensure waste gets disposed of correctly. Read more about the Zero Waste Building Pilots and which buildings are currently participating.

Waste Training and Tours

Over half of what ends up in the trash at Stanford isn’t actually trash, according to Stanford's detailed waste characterization study. Learn how to properly sort your waste, recyclables, and compostables to help Stanford maximize its diversion rate. Contact Office of Sustainability to set up a training.

Tours are also available for various Stanford recycling and waste management facilities. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, we are unable to schedule in-person tours at this time. 

Cardinal Green Event Program

The Cardinal Green Events program offers customized training and resources to help event planners make their events more sustainable. Learn about best practices in waste reduction, catering, and outreach to reduce the environmental impact of your event. Learn more about Cardinal Green Events.

Additional Sustainability Programs