Waste Management

Effective waste management is a vital part of Mount Royal University’s sustainability efforts. It takes all of us - students, staff, and faculty - to make a difference. Every year, our campus produces more than 450 tons of waste, recycling, and organic material, that’s the equivalent of over 25 full-sized school buses!

Why Reduce Waste to Landfill?

Landfills are designed to store waste, not break it down and most are quickly running out of space. No one wants a landfill in their backyard, and sending material abroad for processing is becoming increasingly expensive. These costs ultimately impact institutions like MRU.

A 2020 City of Calgary landfill study found food scraps, grass clippings, and even a newspaper from the 1970s, completely intact after more than 50 years underground. Clearly, what we throw “away” doesn’t just disappear.

What We’re Doing

Facilities Management is committed to working with campus vendors to:

  • Reduce garbage generation

  • Increase recyclable and reusable materials

  • Expand access to convenient, clearly labelled recycling stations

By making it easier to sort materials properly, we can significantly reduce our environmental impact.

If you would like a specialty recycling container or have questions about what materials are accepted, email sustainablemru@mtroyal.ca.
When requesting a container, please include the location and container type(s) you need.

 

Campus Recycling Programs