“Do I need to separate my mixed paper or cardboard from the regular trash? Doesn’t the recycle crew do that before it goes to the landfill?” No, we don’t pick through the regular trash receptacles around campus. We only collect from the blue recycle bins, and we only take mixed paper and flattened cardboard.

“I have a separate box or bin full of recycling at my desk, why hasn’t the recycling team been by to pick it up?” Well, your almost there. All you have to do now is take your bin to the nearest recycle bin. See “Bin Locations” for a complete list of where these main recycle bins are located. If your department doesn’t have a main bin, fill out the “Request a bin or Pick up” form and we’ll set you up with everything you need to recycle in your area at UAA.

“Can I recycle used paper plates, cups, napkins, and towels? They’re made from paper right?” This is true, these materials are generally made from paper, but, most of these items, once used, have food residue on them. The same rule applies with pizza boxes, once they have been used, we can’t take them.

“How do I reach the UAA Recycle Program?” Our e-mail is: recycle@uaa.alaska.edu and our number is 786-4634.

“Why doesn’t the recycling get picked up at night when the custodians do their regular maintenance?” There are a few different answers to this question. The recycling team is made up of student employees here at UAA. Because school and studying can be very intense, we need to perform the regular recycle pick ups during the day. We also would like to interact and meet those who work and study at UAA. 

“Can I recycle coffee cups?” No, unfortunately, coffee cups come with a lining which inhibits it from being a recyclable material.

“Why doesn’t the program recycle glass, aluminum and plastic?” We currently don’t have the resources needed to take on such a huge addition to the program. We continue to look into adding these materials and we hope that we can implement it in the near future.

If you have any additional questions regarding recycling here at UAA please e-mail us at: recycle@uaa.alaska.edu, or give us a call at: 786-4634. Thanks