Student move-out: 9 tons of material sorted for reuse

Every spring, the Office of Campus Sustainability works with Waste Management Services and U-M Housing to reduce waste associated with student move-out. In addition to helping divert landfill waste and give items a second life in the local community, the program helps educate students about thoughtful consumption. Likewise, collection and sorting provides operational staff an up-close look at potential education and communication needs, as well as opportunities for material-specific waste reduction programs.

The program encourages students in residence halls to donate lightly-used items rather than placing them in the landfill—as is often the default. This year, over 9 tons of material was picked up and sorted by dedicated OCS, WMS and other F&O staff.
Local non-profits, including Ann Arbor PTO Thrift Shop, Kiwanis Thrift Sale, House N2 Home, and Goodwill, picked up bedding, clothing, shoes and housewares. These items get a chance to be recirculated back into the community, not only reducing waste but making resources available to a broader community.
In addition to thrift shops, a new partnership was formed this year with U-M’s own Maize and Blue Cupboard. Student Life operates the cupboard to accept unopened food, kitchen tools, and personal care items to help ensure campus members have equitable access to healthy, nourishing food and the means to prepare it.