Ohio State University has been awarded the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 2024 Recycle Ohio Grant to support the Post-Consumer Waste Bin Transition Project at Ohio Stadium, furthering the university’s commitment to sustainability and waste diversion. The grant enabled Ohio State to upgrade 20 waste stations in the club levels, transitioning from a two-bin (recycle/compost) system to a three-bin (trash/recycle/compost) system.
The installation of these new three-bin stations enhances waste sorting by providing clear distinctions between trash, recyclables, and compostable materials. Consistent, visually aligned signage across all waste stations ensures that event attendees and staff correctly dispose of waste, reinforcing Ohio State’s Zero Waste goals. Zero Waste Interns play a key role in the initiative, conducting periodic waste audits to measure effectiveness, track contamination levels, and identify areas for improvement.
This initiative, made possible through the support of the Ohio EPA, Ohio State Athletics, and Ohio State Facilities Operation and Development, aims to enhance waste diversion rates during non-football events, supporting Ohio State’s long-term commitment to divert 90% of waste from landfills as part of the university’s zero waste goal.