Sustainability FAQ
Can I recycle electronic items?
Yes! There are specially marked "Techno Trash" Recycling bins in various areas of campus! These bins take a variety of electronic items such as CDs, tapes, cell phones, ink cartridges, headphones, cables, rechargeable batteries, and many more!
Visit the Recycle page on our site to learn more. If you notice that a techno trash bin is full, please fill out the Recycle Request Form to request a pick up!
What if I have a large pickup, like furniture, wooden pallets or stacks of books?
If you have a special pickup, please complete the Recycle Request Form. Facilities Planning and Management will be in touch to accommodate your request. All UTC property must be reported to Surplus, and will be picked-up for redistribution or recycling.
What about glass?
UTC has a very limited amount of glass in academic areas of the campus. If you work in an area where you might generate regular amounts of glass, please email [email protected] and we can discuss! Housing does NOT collect glass recyclables at this time. Students are encouraged to recycle off-campus at any one of the City of Chattanooga's recycling centers, which you can find here.
What CANNOT go in the recycle bins?
Styrofoams that are NOT marked with a recycle stamp, batteries, aerosol cans, frozen food containers, plastic wrap, food wrappers, aluminum foil, plastic 6-pack holders, napkins, and anything soiled with grease or food.
Does this really matter? Doesn't it take energy to truck those recyclables to the recycling center?
Yes, and yes!
Remember: The best, cheapest way to make a difference is to REDUCE YOUR USE!
Recycling reduces the use of non-renewable resources, landfill waste, pollution, and impact on the environment. It takes 95% less energy to make aluminum from recycled aluminum than from raw materials – 70% for plastics, 60% for steel; and 30-40% for glass and paper. Each ton of recycled paper can save 17 trees, 380 gallons of oil, and 7,000 gallons of water.
If you have any further questions, please email our Sustainability Coordinator, Lisa Darger at [email protected].
Housing, University Center, the ARC, and Auxiliary Services have contract recycling pick-up through Orange Grove, funded by Student Green Fees. Cans and bottles are collected together, and separated from paper.