On-Campus Recycling

On November 15 join in and celebrate America Recycles Day!

Recycle Paper

America Recycles Day promotes and celebrates recycling in the United States. The national recycling rate has increased over the past 30 years. Over the past several years, Brooklyn College and Campus Sustainability have been taking important steps to expand the college’s recycling, composting, and waste-reduction initiatives. We want to encourage the campus community to learn what materials are collected for recycling and take action by following our Brooklyn College Campus Sustainability recycling signs!

Download, Print, and Share—and Make an Impact

Download, print, and share with your office our useful reminders to take action and help the college’s initiatives to reduce waste.

• Recycle Paper (PDF)
• Reuse Plastic (PDF)
• Reduce Trash (PDF)

Reuse Plastic

Learn More

• Campus Sustainability 10-Year Plan (PDF)—Brooklyn College waste-management and recycling initiatives
• GrowNYC—Community recycling events are being held across the city
• DSNY Recycling—The Department of Sanitation provides curbside recycling collection and drop-off programs to simplify getting rid of recyclable items
• What to Recycle in NYC Video—Recycling is the law in New York City for all residents, agencies, and institutions that receive DSNY sanitation collection. Watch and learn what can, and can’t be recycled.

Reduce Trash

Three Ways to Celebrate (that you not might think of)

• Avoid “wishcycling.” Arrow symbols and “please recycle” signs used on products and packaging doesn’t necessarily mean an item is accepted for recycling in your area. To recycle in New York City it is best to follow DSNY’s guidelines.
• Buy products with post-consumer recycled content. Whether it is paper, plastics, glass, or metal, check the product and its packaging label to see if the product, the packing or both are made from post-consumer recycled content.
• Use the Recycle Right resources. New York State and New York City offer materials that are free to download or be mailed. These can be used to promote good recycling habits.

Special Waste Items

• Batteries: Alkaline and rechargeable batteries can be dropped off in the recycling tubes located on the first floor of most buildings across campus. Batteries accepted: A, AA, AAA, C, D, 9V, nickel cadmium, nickel metal hydride, nickel zinc, lithium ion, magnesium batteries, rechargeable batteries, and batteries from the following electronics: two radios, cell phones, cordless phones, laptop computers, portable power tools, hand-held scanners, field equipment, and back-up batteries (UPS). Leaking batteries should be placed in bags and sealed.
• Toner/Cartridges: Printer ink toner cartridges can be recycled by returning them to the company or taking the item to participating locations. Many programs may charge a fee, but some do not and even cover the shipping cost. If you are on campus, visit the manufacturer’s website, print the return label, package the item, and drop off or request a pick from mailing services. Learn more by checking the Take-It-Back NYC guide.

Be sure to visit RecycleRightNY to discover the journey of recyclables, what happens at every stage of the recycling process, how you can help improve our environment through better recycling habit, search through their “Recyclopedia” for recycling and more.