MTSU Recycling Program Overview

MTSU’s Recycling Program is supported by a small staff and a team of student workers who routinely collect recyclable materials from specific routes throughout campus.

If you are an MTSU student and are interested in working for the MTSU Recycling Program, please contact us!

• MTSU Recycling Program Office: 615-898-2822
• Center for Energy and Sustainability: 615-519-8096

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Commitment to Environmental Stewardship

Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) is dedicated to promoting sustainable practices through the recycling program. This initiative focuses on protecting and enhancing the environment by reducing non-hazordous waste, conserving energy, and recovering valuable resources. In addition to its environmental benefits, the program also helps reduce disposal costs and generates revenue to support scholarships.

Key Objectives:

• Conserve energy
• Recover valuable resources
• Protect the environment
• Reduce disposal costs
• Generate funding for support programs

Responsibilities

The Facilities Services Department oversees the implementation of the recycling program, with the Center for Energy and Sustainability managing and coordinating waste reduction efforts. This program has been operational for over 50 years, having been created by Dr. Patrick Doyle and the MTSU Biology Club in 1972.

Collection and Materials:

• Campus and Community Recycling: Aluminum cans, mixed and white paper, newspapers, magazines, printer cartridges, cardboard, maintenance metals, and more.
• Community Drop-Off: Currently closed; please refer to the Rutherford County Waste website for alternative options.

Items Accepted for Recycling:

• From the Community:
  • Aluminum cans
• Campus Only:
  • Any paper/books
  • Cardboard (corrugated and other)
  • Plastic drink bottles
  • Printer cartridges
  • Maintenance metals
  • All types of batteries
  • Pallets
  • E-waste
  • Fluorescent light materials (lamps and ballasts)
  • Motor oil
  • Roofing materials

Sustainable Practices:

• MTSU promotes green purchasing by encouraging the procurement of recycled content materials whenever possible.
• The university aims to incorporate recycling initiatives in renovation and construction projects, including managing construction and demolition debris.

Support and Funding

The recycling program has received support from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, including a donation of over 65 recycling bins. Additionally, it has benefited from funding through the Sustainable Campus Fee project.

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For more information about recycling at MTSU or to request a pickup, please contact the Recycling Program at 615-898-2822.