Recycling Programs for Schools and Universities

Schools, colleges, and universities generate more recyclable waste than most people realize. Cardboard from cafeteria supplies, aluminum cans from events, paper from classrooms, and packaging from deliveries add up across a campus. Without a system, that material fills dumpsters and drives frequent, costly pickups.

RME helps education facilities implement baling programs that reduce costs and support sustainability education. A Central Phoenix high school saved over $21,000 annually by switching to RME's baler system, one of our most compelling success stories.

The Campus Waste Stream

Education facilities generate cardboard (cafeteria and supply deliveries), aluminum (beverage cans at events and dining halls), paper (classrooms and offices), and plastic (packaging). Each of these can be baled. See materials we recycle for the full list of accepted materials.

Sustainability as Education

Beyond cost savings, baling programs create hands-on sustainability education opportunities. Students can see diversion data, understand material flows, and participate in recycling programs that produce measurable results. Many schools use RME's waste data reporting in sustainability coursework and environmental clubs.

The EPA's environmental education resources support campus sustainability programs, and real diversion data makes those programs tangible.

How It Works for Schools

RME installs a baler onsite, trains facilities staff on operation, and sets up an on-demand pickup schedule. Schools bale cardboard and aluminum as generated, then call for pickup when bales accumulate. The process is covered in detail in how our system works.

Want to cut your campus waste costs? schedule a free onsite assessment and we'll evaluate your facilities.