Help ACC Achieve Our Zero Waste by 2040 Goal
Zero Waste is 90% or more materials diverted from the landfill. Austin Community College District has set the goal of becoming a Zero Waste institution by 2040 through various efforts to minimize waste generated, as well as prioritizing compostable and recyclable materials rather than using single-use items.
We Make 3-Stops: ACC utilizes a color-coded system to ensure that all waste ends up in the correct place. Please be sure to do your part by taking a moment to learn what goes where on campus.
Wondering what goes in which bin?
Zero Waste Programs
Zero Waste Food Options: Whether dining at one of the cafes, the Culinary Arts Grab & Go, or at an ACC catered event on campus, most materials are now fully compostable and should be disposed of in the green compost bin. Learn more about composting on campus.
Green Fountains: Green water fountains on all campuses help reduce the number of single-use water bottles. Each fountain displays how many plastic bottles have been kept out of the landfill since its installation.
Specialty Recycling Collections: Not all recycling goes in the single-stream bins. Learn more about ACC’s Specialty Recycling programs that help keep additional items out of the landfill. *ACC Employee Business Use Only — Not for Individual Use
Keep These Out of the Landfill: Disposal of bulk items such as metal, e-waste, furniture, equipment, light bulbs, or ink and toner should be arranged in advance with your Campus Manager via a Property Move Request Form. *ACC Employee Business Use Only — Not for Individual Use
ACC Surplus Free Store: Gently used office supplies can be donated or requested for inter-departmental sharing via the ACC Surplus Free Store (accfreestore.com). *ACC Employee Business Use Only — Not for Student Use
Reusable Aluminum QR Business Cards: In partnership with ACC’s IMPACT Lab and Office of College Relations & Marketing, custom aluminum* QR business cards are available to ACC faculty and staff. These cards are reusable, recyclable, and eliminate paper business cards that are often thrown away. Simply scan the QR code to import the contact information directly to your smartphone. Order cards for your department!
*Cards are made from Alcoa aluminum and include a percentage of recycled aluminum. All scrap and waste produced during the card’s stamping and manufacturing process is recycled. All manufacturing is done within the U.S. and ACC’s IMPACT Lab conducts the engraving process.
Rechargeable Battery Program: The Rechargeable Battery Program is designed to reduce the purchase of single-use batteries. ACC departments may request a charger and rechargeable batteries, provided at no cost by the Office of Energy & Sustainability. To participate, please submit the Rechargeable Battery Program Form. *ACC Employee Business Use Only — Not for Individual Use
Sustainable Purchasing: Looking to make your office, break room or event Zero Waste? Check out these approved supply lists:
