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Sustainable Stanford tables sporting the zero waste t-shirts with the phrase "wise about waste".

Waste System

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Getting to Zero 

In 2023, Stanford hit its highest diversion rate ever at 69% through reuse, recycling, and composting. Learn how Stanford is creating a wasteless community.

 

Waste Wise Purchasing

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

Waste enclosure outside of Hoover Memorial, dumpsters from left to right landfill, compost, recycle.

Waste Services

All waste generated at Stanford -- from regulated waste to recycling, compost, and landfill -- is handled responsibly. Learn more about Stanford's reuse options, waste operations on campus, and request service.

Designing for the Right Behavior

Stanford’s waste standards are designed to provide access for all and to encourage proper waste sorting. Together, these standards not only streamline the sorting process but also encourage positive behavior change. Learn more about Stanford's design guidelines and system standards. 

What Happens to Stanford's Waste

Sorting into bins on campus is just the beginning of the story for materials generated at Stanford. Learn how Stanford's recyclables are made into new products while the compostables are rejuvenating the soil.