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Questions? Email sustainability@gsu.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sustainability, and what does it have to do with me?

Sustainability is the compromise between the wants and needs of human life and the environmental stress caused by this connection. We determine the success of our own sustainable living depending on how we apply environmental-consciousness to our everyday lives.

What is single-stream recycling?

Single-stream is a system that allows various approved materials to be collected in one bin. At Georgia State, our single-stream consists of cardboard, metal, paper and plastics #1-5.

What is a diversion rate, and why does it matter?

It’s the amount of waste that isn’t sent to landfills and is instead recycled, reused and/or composted. A high diversion rate indicates that Georgia State is positively contributing to decreasing the volume of waste going to landfills.

Where does Georgia State’s sustainability fee money go?

The funds accrued are granted to Sustainability Initiatives and other groups based on a proposal and committee approval basis. The money awarded funds projects and events for Georgia State students. To see how it works, click on the Sustainability Fee section on the Initiatives page on our website.

Where can I recycle on campus?

For items like cardboard, paper and plastic (single-stream), there are small bins throughout classroom buildings and large bins on the third parking level of the University Commons (for students in housing only). For special materials, there are bins in the Student Center, and we often hold special material drives on campus. Hang onto your items and look out for a drive date.

Where is Georgia State's recycling processed?

Single-stream recycling and baled cardboard is processed at Greif. Glass and plastic film are taken to the Center for Hard to Recycle Materials (CHaRM). Batteries and e-waste are taken to eWaste ePlanet. Printer cartridges go to Evolve, and clothing/textiles are sent to the Kidney Foundation of America. Styrofoam is densified at the Georgia State recycling center, then sent to BlueGoblin.

How can I make sustainability a part of my degree?

Georgia State offers certificate programs, undergraduate and graduate courses, and the GSURC (Georgia State Undergraduate Research Conference) in sustainability. For details, look on the Academics page on our website.

How can I get involved outside of academics?

Georgia State boasts a handful of volunteer opportunities, internships and student groups devoted to the environment. For details, check out the Get Involved page on our website.

What can I do to be more sustainable?

Use less water, recycle what you can, buy items secondhand, eat less meat, walk and bike more, drive less and stay informed. It’s easier said than done, but every little change helps.

Schedule a Tour

Schedule a Tour

Sustainability Initiatives is proud to offer official tours of our recycling center at Georgia State Stadium. Learn about our programs, the stadium’s history and our special materials recycling operations.

Email recycle@gsu.edu to set up a tour for yourself or a group.

Meet us at Georgia State Stadium (755 Hank Aaron Dr. SE, Atlanta, GA 30315). Our center is located inside the first roll-up door past the intersection of Ralph Abernathy Blvd. and Pollard Blvd. Look for our Georgia State Recycling Center sign and feel free to park there. Tours vary in length depending on the number of questions we’re asked but usually last 20-30 minutes.

Tours will take place rain or shine. The recycling center is covered but open to the outside air, so please dress warmly on chilly days.

Please let us know if you are unable to come.

Submit an Idea

Submit an Idea

  • Contact Information

  • Project Information

  • Please describe your project's main purpose, anticipated outcomes and relation to Georgia State Sustainability Initiatives in 500 words or less.
  • Please list any known funding sources and/or projected resource needs for the project to be completed in 500 words or less.
  • Please advise of any possible external funding or grants that could benefit Georgia State's Sustainability Initiatives.

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