Born in the spring of 1976, CU’s recycling program has come a long way since its days of collecting aluminum cans and newspapers with rented trucks and volunteers. Today, it enjoys a national reputation for its broad and innovative program development and successful campus and community participation.

Recently, CU Recycling was named a model campus recycling program by the Office of the Federal Environmental Executive. This recognition is due to CU’s partnership approach between the Facilities Management and Housing departments as well as student government. Together, recycling operations continue to expand efficiently while maintaining a strong student presence in the program.

Another recent award, the Environmental Protection Agency’s Global Climate Protection Award, was presented to CU’s Environmental Center—home to student government’s recycling office. CU Recycling documented a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to taking 7,500 cars off the road for a year. CU-Boulder was the only university among 19 international companies, organizations, and individuals presented with the award at a Washington, D.C. ceremony.

While these awards highlight CU’s progress in waste reduction and recycling, plans are underway to build on the accomplishments of the first twenty-five years. Operationally, the “next step” is well underway with the second year of a capital expansion plan funded by student government. New equipment, collection methods, and exciting awareness campaigns are being introduced to campus. Academically, student researchers are improving programs on campus, in the community, and around the country.

Person-by-person and pound-by-pound, CU is making a difference. An e-mail listserver is available to get periodic updates from the program. For more information, contact CU Recycling at 303-492-8307 or cure@stripe.colorado.edu.

EcoCycle congratulates CU Recycling for 25 years of award-winning campus recycling!