Recycling FAQs
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?
The recycling crew is only able to collect from the recycle receptacles.
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, you're almost there. All you need to do now is take your personal bin to the
nearest centrally located recycle bin. If your department doesn’t have a centrally
located bin, please email uaa.recycle@alaska.edu or call 786-1129 to request a bin.
Can I recycle my plastic soda and water bottles, plastic bags, and food containers?
Yes, you can recycle plastic soda and water bottles. The bottles must be #1 PETE bottles
with neck and #2 HDPE jugs with neck. You cannot recycle food containers. Avoid placing food containers in recycle bins as it will contaminate the entire bin
and it will all need to be thrown out. ( As of September 15, 2019 we will no longer collect plastic bags or stretch film.)
Can I recycle used paper plates, cups, napkins, and towels? They’re made from paper
right?
While it is true that these materials are generally made from paper, most of these
items (once used) have food residue on them. For example, if pizza boxes have cheese
or grease on the cardboard, they cannot be recycled.
How do I reach UAA Recycling?
You can reach us by email at uaa.recycle@alaska.edu or call 786-1129
Why doesn’t the recycling get picked up at night when the custodians do their regular
maintenance?
The recycling team is made up of student employees so collection is done during the
day.
Can I recycle coffee cups?
Unfortunately, no. Coffee cups come with a lining which inhibits it from being a
recyclable material.
Can I recycle batteries?
Personal batteries such as AA can be taken to Total Reclaim. Batteries purchased for and consumed by UAA can be recycled at UAA. Just tape the
anodes, collect in a box or plastic bag, and place them on or beside the nearest recycling
bin.
Can I recycle glass?
Yes! For beverages or food items bought or consumed on campus, place the glass container
in either bins designated for can or plastic recycling. The UAA Recycle Crew will
sort it out for you!
Can I recycle books?
Yes; however, here are a few rules to keep in mind. Paperback books may be recycled
and it's okay to keep both the front and back covers in tact. Hardcover books must
have the front and back covers removed before recycling. Books that are bound must
have the bindings removed before recycling.