Michigan Tech is committed to reducing waste on campus through recycling, composting, and repurposing items whenever possible. We currently divert about 140 tons of material each year from the landfill and are working on increasing that number through targeted programs on campus.
We also have unique programs to help encourage waste reduction among our campus community:
- HuskyFANfood pantry
- Clothing Closet free store in Douglass Houghton Hall (DHH)
- Husky Exchange green move-in and move-out program in all residence halls
- Michigan Tech's Dining Services offers reusable to-go food containers through the Mr. Lid Program
Recycling Programs
Single Stream Recycling
Books • Beverage Containers • Cardboard • Cards/Envelopes • Copy Paper • Cardboard • File Folders • Glass Jars & Lids • Magazines/Catalogs • Metal Cans • Newspaper • Paper Bags • Plastic Bottles/Jugs
All items must be clean and empty, free of food residue
Small Household/Office
Batteries (AA, AAA, D, etc.) are accepted in these clear tubes around campus. We collect and deliver the batteries to Remy Battery (1550 Brickyard Lane, Houghton) and as a result, all MTU employees and students receive a discount on Remy products.
Plastic Bags and Films
Grocery Bags • Ice Bags • Reclosable Food Storage Bags • Cereal Box Liners • Case
Overwrap • Bread Bags • Newspaper Sleeves • Dry Cleaning Bags • Bubble Wrap • Plastic
Shipping Envelopes
All items must be clean, dry, and free of food and organic residue
Through a partnership with Tadych’s Marketplace, the plastic film collected goes to Trex to live a second life as composite decking. For more information and a complete list of acceptable items, visit NexTrex.
Razors, Toothbrushes, and Writing Utensils
Look for these special bins in Wadsworth Hall (main lobby by cafeteria), McNair (main lobby by front desk), and the Library (first floor, just inside 24 hour entrance).
E-Waste
IT recycles many common electronic devices such as computers, laptop batteries, cameras, and printers. You may email it-help@mtu.edu or call 906-487-1111 for more information.
Questions? Reach out to us at sustainability@mtu.edu.