Undergraduate Abstract

Tara Pike
August 1994

An Improved Recycling Program for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas

A Thesis submitted in partial satisfaction
of the requirement for the degree of

BACHELOR OF ARTS

In

Environmental Studies Program
University of Nevada
Las Vegas

by

Tara Pike

Summer 1994

Thesis Adviser: Dr. James Deacon
Environmental Studies Program
University of Nevada, Las Vegas

ABSTRACT

UNLVs current recycling program is operated through a joint effort between Silver State Disposal, UNLV Grounds and Maintenance and the UNLV Custodial department. The current program does not have an educational or promotional program or a waste reduction/ reuse campaign. The current program has a low participation rate and recycles only 6% of the campus's waste stream. UNLV does not receive revenue from the program, but was given a $3,000 scholarship during one academic year. The current system has labor costs for both Silver State and the campus. Other universities have designed programs to divert large amounts of recyclables from their waste stream, save money and involve the students. Improvements in UNLVs recycling program are needed and they will provide a wide variety of benefits to the campus. In this paper I have undertaken to evaluate the options for recycling at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. I have done so by summarizing recycling programs at other universities, performing a waste stream assessment that included a physical analysis of the trash, economically evaluating the current disposal and recycling programs and assessing attitudes about recycling. I have recommended a plan to increase UNLVs current 6% diversion rate to 20-25% while saving the university money by reducing disposal costs.