NEWS - 12/4/03

Media Advisory
Contact: Jack DeBell, 303-492-8307

CU Recycling to conduct waste composition study

WHO: CU Recycling
WHAT: A waste composition study and diversion potential analysis
WHERE: University of Colorado Recycling's Intermediate Processing Facility (IPF). The IPF is located in the Grounds Building on Stadium Drive, just east of the Dal Ward Athletic Center and Recreation Center.
WHEN: Friday, December 5 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. ***Best Photo Opportunity: 12-2pm****

CU Recycling has contracted Skumatz Economic Research Associates, Inc. (SERA) to dissect a statistically significant portion of CU's trash in a waste composition study set on Friday, December 5. Students and recycling staff, along with waste management experts, will don their lab coats and gloves to separate, weigh, and record specific components of CU's waste. More than 100 bags of trash are expected to be measures in this visually-graphic exercise which is bound to generate important findings.

CU Recycling needs to conduct the analysis to make recommendations on waste diversion or suggest improvements for the recycling program. Based on volumes of materials found in the trash, suggestions will be made for needed additions to the program.

In the spring of 2003, CU conducted a business plan review of the recycling program, and findings showed that the program saves the campus financial and environmental resources. This analysis is meant help take campus recycling into the future - keeping more materials out of the landfill.

CU Recycling is a partnership between the UCSU, Facilities Management, and the department of Housing.

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