Play your part in looking after the planet

We get it - sometimes separating out your waste can be a drag, especially if you're new to the area and need to learn the local recycling rules! But, for just a little initial investment in learning what goes in each bin, you can massively help LSE to improve it's recycling rates - we really do rely on you.

What can be recycled?

First things first, let's get familiar with the bin system in your Hall and what goes in each bin. You will find on campus and likely in your accommodation that bins follow a colour-coded system. 

Here's a rundown of the items you should be disposing of in each:

1. Dry mixed recycling (Usually green bins)

• Plastic bottles
• Paper and card
• Glass
• Drink cans and tins
• Drink and food cartons

No coffee cups, tissues, food or drink. 

2. Paper and card (Blue bins)

If there is no specific paper recycling, use the recycling bin.

3. Food waste (Usually brown bins)

• Any food scraps (fruit, vegetables, meat etc.)
• Teabags (if plastic free)
• Coffee grounds

The packaging in which the food comes in does not count so dispose of this separately.

4. General waste (Usually black bins)

•  Everything leftover that currently can't be recycled e.g. plastic film, used tissues, crisp packets, etc. 

Any cardboard should be folded/flat packed and placed near appropriate bins (which will be taken care of by the assigned cleaner). 

If you come across a bin that isn't any of these colours then it will usually have symbols on it to represent what waste it is for. Keep an eye out for the right bin and what kinds of items can be disposed of in them to prevent items that could have been recycled from being destroyed. 

What about more niche items you might need to recycle?

There will be times when you have items that need to be dropped off to a special recycling point. 

LSE have you covered when it comes to any items that can't be recycled in a standard bin. Over time you will see lots of these special items such as used batteries, clothes and old electronics build-up, so why not remove that clutter from your life and feel good about it?

Check out this handy map below:

For any more details on what can be recycled in these points, or other LSE policies head to LSE's waste and recycling page. Or you can contact the team directly on any issues at Sustainability.Team@lse.ac.uk.

Outside of LSE, you will find a bunch of charity shops that are more than willing to take certain reusable items off of your hands. They even run pick-up services depending on the item. Any donations to the closest British Heart Foundation will help fund life-saving research and if you're feeling extra generous then you can volunteer your time to help out in the store. 

Want to know more about sustainability at LSE? Take the module on Moodle, subscribe to the monthly Green Flash newsletter or follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and the LSE Student Hub @SustainableLSE.