Waste Sorting & Recycling

Not sure how to dispose of or recycle something? Use the Waste Wizard, explore what goes beyond the bins, and find options for reuse and specialty recycling on campus.

A bin setup with different signs and containers for liquids, recycling, trash, and compost

Waste Wizard: Which Bin Does It Go In?

Single-Stream Recycling	Compost	Trash
Plastic bottles, jars, jugs, and tubs Paper and cardboard - including hot coffee cups! Metal cans and foil Glass bottles and jars	Food scraps Coffee grounds Compostable containers and utensils Napkins and paper towels	Foam and black plastic Single-serve packets, straws, and utensils Wrappers Plastic bags and stretchy film (unless you have access to film recycling collection)

Beyond the Bins

These items and materials require specific handling.

Textiles

Clothes, bedding, towels, and shoes, even torn or stained!

Banned from trash disposal in Massachusetts; recycle or donate instead.

Batteries

Do not put in trash or recycling due to fire risk, especially lithium-ion, rechargeable, and button batteries.

Electronics

Computers, TVs, phones, printers, accessories - anything with a plug or a battery! Many contain hazardous materials and valuable parts.

Securely recycle any electronics with data; explore IT's guide for disposing of electronic waste.

Mattresses

Mattresses and box springs are banned from trash disposal in Massachusetts; donate or recycle instead.

Plastic Film

Stretchy plastics, like bubble wrap, plastic mailers, or grocery store bags.

Either recycle this in a special collection, or put it in the trash (not recycling).

Ink/Toner Cartridges

Most vendors on campus have takeback programs to recycle your cartridges.

Reusable Goods

Donations of all kinds - furniture, mattresses, household goods, office supplies, athletic equipment, and more.

Other Waste Ban Items

Construction materials, including metal and wood

Leaves, grass and brush

Appliances

Unsure where to donate or recycle something?

Find the Right Contact