At Amherst, we strive to reuse and recycle as much as we can and have aspirations to be zero waste! Reuse and recycling not only reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and help conserve natural resources, but they also help reduce pollution and save energy and water. In addition to the standard recyclables like paper, plastic, and aluminum, we also recycle small electronics, light bulbs, batteries, and computers.
We have single stream recycling, and so all recyclabes can be placed in the same bin.
We recycle all plastics #1 - 7 as well as cans, paper, cardboard, and glass.
Pieces of clothes given away at the free clothing event!
At the end of each semester, the Office of Sustainability in collaboration with Housing and Facilities distributes donation bags and sets up designated drop zones for any clothing, room decor, and furniture donations. Donations are collected, sorted, and made available to students during the Fall Move In Week at giant free yardsale held in the college's ice rink. Clothes are made available at a fall free clothing extravaganza at a separate event at the ice rink in September. Keep your eye out for announcements!
Check out the college's sustainable living guide for a list of what can and what cannot be recycled.
For more information about our recycling efforts and programs, contact Kenny Lauzier in Facilities at klauzier@amherst.edu.
For more information about yard sales, clothing swaps, and the Sustainable Living Guide, contact us at sustainability@amherst.edu.