DePaul's recyclables are collected by Lakeshore Recycling Systems (LRS) to be sorted, compacted and sold. LRS practices single stream recycling, meaning that no separation of recyclables is required. So why are there so many types of recycling bins on campus? The different bins help to reduce contamination (e.g., when paper is kept separate from bottles and cans, less of it gets wet and dirty which makes it unfit for recycling) and spread awareness.
On Campus
General Recycling Bins
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All types of paper except: NO coffee cups, food containers, paper towels, napkins, tissues, glossy receipts or paper that is excessively wet
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Aluminum & Tin Cans
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Glass Bottles
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Plastic Bottles & Jugs marked as #1-5 or 7 (leave caps/lids on!)
Other Items
Gently used shoes of any size/type can be placed in the Share Your Soles bin in the Ray Meyer Fitness & Recreation Center lobby.
Ink & toner cartridges can be sent for recycling to the mailroom.
Off Campus
If you live in Chicago in a building with 4 units or less, you are part of the
Blue Cart recycling program. Check out the Recycle By City - Chicago site for tons of helpful information about what you can & cannot recycle.
As of January 1st, 2017, an amended version of Chicago's 20 year old recycling ordinance is in effect. The ordinance has always required residential buildings with more than 4 units to provide recycling services, but has been updated to provide greater clarity to property owners and equip City officials with stronger enforcement capabilities. Residents may report non-compliance to 311 or
My Building Doesn't Recycle, who will pass the information on to Streets and Sanitation.
If you live outside of Chicago, your local government can provide you with information about their recycling program. If one is not in place,
Earth911's recycle search is a good place to start for nearby options.
We're happy to answer any/all of your recycling questions.
Ask away!