Single-Stream Recycling at U-M

By: 
U-M Recycling
Release Date: 
9/3/2010

U-M is joining the City of Ann Arbor in offering Single-Stream Recycling, the recycling system through which paper and container recyclables are collected in the same bin.

While dumpsters across campus will be relabelled in August to reflect the changes in the recycling program (to be effective starting August 20, 2010), recycling bins within buildings will have lids replaced, where possible. Lid replacement in buildings will occur gradually throughout the 2010-2011 academic year.

While bins may continue to be labeled "Paper" or "Containers," campus community members can place recyclables in either bin. New materials that can be recycled in this single-stream recycling program include all plastics except for #3, plastic grocery bags and other plastic films and Styrofoam. Regulated wastes (e.g. batteries, bulbs, etc.), confidential items and hazardous materials are not a part of this program and should continue to be disposed of per OSEH and/or your department's policies.

"I thank you in advance for your patience as we transition campus to this new system," says Tracy Artley, Recycling Coordinator at U-M. "We anticipate the need to change the frequency of recycling bin and dumpster emptying as well as the confusion some campus members may feel given the inconsistent recycling bin labeling that will be present this academic year."

Click Links Below for More Information

If you have any questions or concerns, now or as the transition continues, please feel free to emailrecycle@umich.edu.