Temple's Climate Action Plan established a goal of reducing the amount of greenhouse gas emissions derived from land-filled solid waste by 10% by 2015 relative to its 2006 baseline level. The Climate Action Plan estimates that Temple emitted 5,229 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO2E) in 2006. A 10% decrease is equivalent to 529 MTCO2E. The university successfully achieved that reduction in 2008. In fact, between 2006 and 2010, Temple reduced its emissions associated with solid waste by 19%.
Although it reached its 10% greenhouse gas emissions reduction benchmark, the Climate Action Plan identified additional waste minimization and recycling recommendations, which are listed below:
- Increase the recycling rate from 32% to 40% by 2015;
- Increase outdoor recycling opportunities to ensure that every trash can is accompanied by a recycling can;
- Explore composting of food waste;
- Review opportunities in the food service areas to replace disposable dinnerware and eating utensils in all dining halls;
- Review business practices that contribute to excess waste; and,
- Engage students in residence halls to reduce waste.
Pursuant to a recommendation of the Sustainability Advisory Group, a Recycling and Waste Minimization Committee was charged with developing a report that outlined ways to meet these goals. In 2011, Temple finalized its Recycling and Waste Minimization Report.
To view Temple's FY 2011 Recycling and Trash report, click here.
For a short presentation about Recycling at Temple, click here.
