Recycling & Waste
Lakehead is committed to reducing waste and lessening our impact on the environment. To these ends, Lakehead has implemented a number of waste diversion initiatives:
Waste Centralization and Standardization
In the winter of 2023, Lakehead Thunder Bay transitioned to a centralized and increasingly standardized waste and recycling program. By eliminating office and classroom garbage bins, Lakehead will save over 25,000 single-use plastic garbage bags while promoting increased recycling at its centralized sorters. Each sorting station contains not only trash receptacles, but receptacles for paper and container recycling along with educational signage that directs users to the correct receptacle for their item(s).
Consistent bin placement, type, and signage all promote a greater awareness of how to engage with our recycling programs maximally.
Bottled Water Policy in Orillia
Our Orillia campus is proud to be plastic water bottle free! The Bottled Water Policy in Orillia prevents the sale of single-use bottled water. The program reduces plastic waste, treats water as a right instead of a commodity, and saves money.
Reusable Containers and Dining Ware in our Dining Facilities
Lakehead has long implemented reusable mug incentives on our campuses, often providing a discount to those who supply their own cup. In addition, trayless dining and reusable dining ware in our cafeterias eliminate unnecessary waste from single-use plastic containers. In the fall of 2023, Lakehead will take our commitments in this area even further by implementing reusable container programs for takeout food and beverages on both campuses.
Recycling Initiatives for Difficult-to-Dispose of Items
The Office of Sustainability works with both campus (Physical Plant, Residence & Housing, student groups, and Student Health & Wellness,) and community partners to offer regular recycling opportunities for Difficult-to-Dispose of items such as e-waste, cigarette butts, office supplies, and gently used clothing and household items.