Waste Reduction and Recycling

In 2008/09, the University generated a total of 1,284 tonnes (1,079 based on measured data supplied by the waste contractor and 205 tonnes estimated from the number of bin lifts) of waste.  Twenty nine percent of the waste generated was recycled, 2% was incinerated and 69% sent to landfill.

The total amount of waste generated has been reduced from 1,404 tonnes in 2005/06 to 1284 in 2008/09.  Recycling has also increased from 12% to 29% over the same period.

In early 2010, the University successfully secured £10,000 of funding from the Recycle Zone project for internal recycling infrastructure.  This funding was matched by the University and as a result over 200 recycling collection points have been deployed, covering 50 areas across the Exeter Campuses. The Recycle Zone points give staff, students and visitors the opportunity to recycle their plastic, cans, paper and card.  This will further increase our recycling rates, reduce the amount of material sent to landfill, provide a visual illustration of the University’s commitment to sustainability and ultimately improve performance in external league tables.