How UCLA Increases Recycling on Campus

How UCLA Increases Recycling on Campus through its partnership with Athens Services, promoting zero waste initiatives, source-separated recycling, and sustainable student practices.

UCLA and Athens Services have partnered since 2008 to advance zero waste initiatives and reduce landfill waste. Over the years, this collaboration has become a leading example of how universities can implement effective campus recycling programs.

Recently, UCLA and Athens Services worked together to produce an educational video highlighting the importance of source-separated recycling and demonstrating where campus waste goes after disposal.

Educating Students on Zero Waste Practices

The video aims to educate students, staff, and the broader community about proper waste sorting and sustainable habits.

“As longstanding partners with Athens Services, we are very excited to release this video showing our community where their waste goes and highlighting the importance of proper waste sorting,” said UCLA Zero Waste Manager Kikei Wong. “By educating our fellow Bruins and beyond, we can provide foundational knowledge that leads to long-term sustainable behavior change.”

Collaboration Between UCLA and Athens Services

The project was developed through close collaboration between the UCLA Recycling Team, including both staff and students, and the Athens Services team.

“We worked closely with the UCLA Recycling Team to gather ideas and recommendations on what they wanted to see in this video. The Athens team did a great job transforming that vision into reality,” said Jennifer Cilloniz, Director of Program Compliance & Outreach.

Advancing Sustainability Through Partnership

This initiative highlights how strong partnerships can drive meaningful progress in sustainability and waste reduction.

Promotes zero waste campus goals
Encourages proper recycling behavior
Reduces landfill waste through education
Builds long-term environmental awareness

UCLA and Athens Services will continue working together on programs that aim to increase recycling rates, reduce waste, and support environmental stewardship both on campus and in the surrounding community.

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