Clemson University recycling program recognized as 'outstanding' by DHEC

Published: April 1, 2010

By Mark Sublette

CLEMSON — Clemson University won the Outstanding Waste Reduction and Recycling Program award from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control Recycle Guys in the college or university category.

Recycling on the Clemson campus is now at the 20 percent level, "a decent rate within the state," said Dave VanDeventer, recycling and custodial services manager.

The award is based on several questions evaluating the Clemson recycling program, which has expanded considerably in recent years with all-new construction and demolition contracts now required to meet a 75 percent or better recycle rate to become LEED certified. LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and is the nation's premier program for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings

"This increased our recycling rate tremendously," said VanDeventer, "as has the increase in the number of cardboard balers on campus from two to four, with a fifth soon to be installed. We have them at Schilletter, Harcombe, the Madren Center and the Hendrix Center."

VanDeventer said landscape services also contributes to the overall recycling and waste reduction by using tree limbs and grass clippings as mulch around campus. Landscape staff members also service the cardboard-recycling containers, which they empty weekly around campus.

Clemson was recognized for the capital improvements made through grants to improve metal recycling, as well as for upgrades made to the Kite Hill recycling facility, which makes it much easier to handle metals, paper and plastic, VanDeventer said.

“When the state looks at overall waste reduction and recycling programs for this award, the criteria go beyond recycling percentage rates. Through this award they show their interest in a good model program, which Clemson has achieved this year.” said VanDeventer.

END