Waste Audits

Every year a campus-wide waste audit is conducted at Western. The goal of waste audits is to determine waste composition, the success of current waste diversion (i.e. source separation) programs, and to identify possible program improvements in reducing, re-using, and recycling waste.

Western's waste diversion rate has remained around 50% over the past few years. We are working to increase our waste diversion by reducing the amount of waste generated on campus, and by improving waste station signage and education across campus so our community knows how, and is committed, to Sort It Right!

Historical Waste Diversion Rates from 2017-2020

Graph of Western's waste diversion rate from 2017-2020

There are a few things that we can all do to help reduce waste on campus and improve Western's sustainability with waste.

Reduce waste by choosing reusable items, such as travel mugs instead of disposable coffee cups. Look for ways to reuse items instead of throwing them away. For example, used furniture can be donated to community organizations during move-out instead of thrown away or left at the side of the road. Before choosing to recycle or throw things away, please consider whether the item can be repaired or repurposed.

When it does come time to dispose of items, make sure you are placing them in the correct waste stream so that we divert as much waste as possible away from landfills. Common items found in the landfill bin include beverage containers, paper, and cardboard - all items that can be recycled! Help the campus community learn how to Sort it Right by volunteering with our Trash Talkers!

If you have any suggestions or would like to learn more about our waste reduction strategies at Western, please email us at sustainability@uwo.ca or follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter to stay updated with our initiatives!