The University of Alabama has taken a major initiative in recycling this waste and they are keen to do something about the growing heaps of landfills.
According to geographical details, the Mount Cheaha is the highest point in Alabama and it stands over 2.400 feet. But a recent study has shown the growth of several small mountains in the region. These mountains that are growing at a steady pace are landfills and as per the latest reports they are getting higher and higher. The University of Alabama has taken a major initiative in recycling this waste and they are keen to do something about the growing heaps of landfills.
Tony Johnson, one of the major initiators of the recycling movement along with his colleague Steve Gregory has done wonders. The recycling initiative taken by the two have resulted in the collection of 885.8 tons of recyclables between the years 2008 and 2009. There has been an increase of 86%. The 885 tons which have been diverted from the landfills have managed to save an amount of $24,802 for landfill fees. The initiative which started in small scales has resulted in phenomenal growth. According to Johnson, there has been a raising consciousness about recycling and recycle industry. The increased awareness has helped the movement to gain momentum.
According to him, people who are interested in the recycling program have come up with suggestions. Now not even the faculty members, but students also feel interested about the recycling program which has known to do wonders for one and all over the campus. Johnson along with Gregory has met student groups and has placed a lot of recycling containers in different academic buildings. This is one of the many efforts taken by Johnson to increase awareness among everyone in the campus. A lot of recycling materials have come from unexpected sectors.
The lists of materials which are recycled have grown over the years. Now grease, wood and electronics have been included in the list of recyclables. This means that Johnson will see a growth of 230 tons of recyclables. Apart from these three, scrap metal, cardboard and office papers have increased the amount to 591 tons. Along with it, one could also see an increase in recycled materials like 2,580 gallons of oil, 650 hall mattresses used in residences, 616 car batteries, and 6600 light bulbs. Johnson feels that everything should be recycled and as such there are no specifications what could be recycled and what could be not recycled.
The good news is that the recycling program of the university has been recognized as one of the finalists of Southern Association of College and University Business Officers’ Best Practices. If the university manages to become of the grand finalists, it will receive $ 1500.