The University of Alabama’s efforts in recycling are having a positive effect on both the environment and the bottom line.
UA’s recycling program provides jobs, offers an economic impact through the sale of recycled material and helps to educate students, said Tony D. Johnson, UA senior executive director for logistics and support services.
“I am so very thankful for the involvement and participation we receive from our students, faculty and staff,” Johnson said. “Their efforts of placing recycling materials in the correct bins and their involvement contributes to our success.”
UA has thousands of recycling containers around campus with hundreds of collection points. In the fiscal year 2018, one ton of recycling materials brought in an average of $201.53. By the numbers:
- Tons of recycling diverted from the local landfill: 1,439.77.
- Revenue generated from the sale of recycling materials: $184,287.6.
- Landfill fee savings ($28 x 1,439.77 tons recycled): $40,313.56.
- Performing inhouse shredding services (free to departments): $65,560.
- Total revenue + cost savings: $290,161.17, or $201.53 per ton.
Using the most efficient methods also counts. By baling cardboard, sorted office paper and mixed paper, the recycling program receives higher prices for these recycling materials. In addition, this process helps reduce UA’s carbon footprint by sending out a full tractor-trailer load of recycling materials all at once.
UA also pursues other cost-saving methods that don’t factor into the recycling program. For example, UA works with departments so they will order less paper, and with the purchasing department to place Requests for Proposals to use a certain size pallet. Those pallets can later be sold to a vendor for $2 each.
Many organizations perform bin audits to determine the amount of recycling items that go into the landfill. UA uses these processes as well. UA audits delivery trucks coming on campus so staff members can plan to recycle those items. The department gives three tours a week to students, faculty and off-campus businesses, Johnson said.
UA provides a drop-off area for both students living off campus and members of the community to recycle aluminum, paper, glass, plastic and other items.
The department also has applied for grants to support sustainability initiatives. Over the last five years, UA has been awarded $291,609 in grant funds. These awards have contributed to the success of sustainability programs on campus. Organizations are encouraged to maintain records of the amount of recycling materials.