1. Mary Ellen Mallia, Ph.D. Director of Environmental Sustainability Mmallia@albany.edu Greening SUNY Albany Helping to green New York

2. Sustainability at SUNY Growing awareness and emphasis placed on sustainability in the last few years Sustainability has become part of strategic plans though out the system Almost half of the SUNY schools have signed the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment

3. Sustainability at SUNY Goals are being set for recycling and waste diversion rates Many schools compete in Recyclemania Constantly seeking new ways to recycle and divert waste

4. Recycling Programs Mixed Paper Commingled items (plastic, glass, aluminum) Metals Electronics C&D Tires, batteries, lights, ink jets, toners, cell phones UAlbany currently recycles the following materials:

5. Waste Diversion The following items are diverted from the landfill: Universal waste Yard waste Wood chipping Kitchen grease oil Wood pallets Use of dishware/silverware in dining halls as opposed to disposables Elimination of trays Movement towards bulk items (such as condiments)

6. Special Waste Diversion Programs Move out programs Move in programs Personal electronics collection drives Returnable collection drives Installation of a reverse vending machine Clothing Exchanges (other items too: books, purses) Distribution of refillable mugs and canvas bags Discounts for reusable items at campus outlets The ban on purchasing of bottled water via state funds (EO 18) affected catering practices

7. Green Purchasing Green Cleaning products 100% recycling paper Alternative fuel vehicles (electric and hybrid) Energy Star rated appliances Items with recycled content Regionally sourced items LEED standards for new buildings

8. Accomplishments Increased recycling rates Diminished waste rates Expansion on types of goods recycled and diverted Green cleaning procurement policies and procedures Promote overall awareness via outreach to campus community

9. Challenges Not resting on accomplishments Meeting state waste reduction goals Less control in leased facilities Having a supporting infrastructure for recycling and waste diversion Finding cost effective markets for some products Getting the word out to campus community Currently investigating: Composting/organic waste diversion Mattress recycling

10. Outreach to campus community Work with purchasing department Meet with offices that create a large amount of external publications Communicate with sustainability coordinators or other relevant staff members Tabling at major events Blast email Electronic bulletins Web pages, facebook and twitter

11. Questions? Contact info: Mary Ellen Mallia, Ph.D. University at Albany Office of Environmental Sustainability Mmallia@albany.edu Website: www.albany.edu/gogreen Facebook: UAlbany Green Scene Twitter: UAGreenScene