Wise About Our Waste System

Stanford University has proudly attained a landfill diversion rate of 69% through its robust initiatives in reuse, recycling, and composting. By contracting directly with a third-party waste hauler, the university benefits from customized services, enhanced transparency, and efficient customer support in managing campus waste disposal. Through responsible purchasing practices and strategic sorting methods, Stanford’s waste system helps drive the university towards zero waste.

Faculty member working on a computer next to a window

Waste Wise Purchasing

Stanford’s waste system starts with individuals. Everything purchased and brought to campus eventually needs to be responsibly managed to protect people and the environment. The less waste produced, the less that needs to be managed.

3 dumpsters for waste services outside a building with Hoover tower in the background

Waste Services

The Stanford community can access waste services for all their needs – whether residential, laboratory, construction, food, event, reuse and donation, or hazardous waste. Services are provided by family-owned Peninsula Sanitary Service, Inc. (PSSI) along with Stanford’s Environmental Health & Safety Department (EH&S).

Extended arm of a person with a banana peel in their hand sorting it into a compost bin.

Waste Sorting

Proper waste sorting is one of the simplest daily actions you can take to address climate change. Not sure what to do with your waste?

Zero Waste Action Planning

Interested in getting involved with waste reduction on campus? The Office of Sustainability convenes the Zero Waste Campus Committee to help guide waste reduction at Stanford. 

A group of staff and faculty posing for a picture on a rainy day with recycle, compost, and landfill bins.

Wasteless YOU

Get inspired by stories from students, staff, and faculty across campus who are taking action.

Waste
Data Hub

Stanford Energy Systems Innovations (SESI) building front facade.

Waste Resources