Even with the best intentions it can be easy to get waste and recycling sorting wrong. Unfortunately, small mistakes can have a big impact, like sending entire bins to landfill.
We’ve explored ten common misconceptions about bin use on campus. In the PDF below, you can explore each misconception in detail and discover our top tips to reduce waste and increase resource recovery at ANU.
Download PDF (17.76 KB)
Takeaway coffee cups are not always recyclable
Most takeaway cups and lids cannot be recycled in the ACT due to plastic linings or types. Put them in landfill.
Many iced drink takeaway cups cannot be recycled
Many plastic and cardboard iced drink cups are not accepted in recycling due to mixed materials or can only break down under specific conditions not available in the ACT.
Biopak food containers are not always recyclable
Many plastic and cardboard containers are lined with plastic or wax that is not recyclable. Therefore, they belong in landfill.
The triangle symbol does not mean ‘recyclable’
The triangle symbol is a plastic identification code, not a guarantee it belongs in the recycling bin.
Some cardboard cannot go in the recycling bin
Some cardboard has a plastic or wax lining, are covered in sticky tape or still have food scraps and need to go to landfill.
E-waste and batteries cannot go in landfill
These items contain hazardous materials that leak into the environment. They should be disposed of at dedicated areas on campus.
Biodegradable items do not always break down naturally
Many biodegradalbe products require industrial composting facilities to break down properly.
Guessing the correct bin causes more contamination than you think
Guessing can cause contamination, and we may have to send the whole contents to landfill. Even as little as 5% contamination rates affect our bins.
Old clothes and furniture do not go in landfill
These items decompose at different rates or not at all. When they go to landfill we also waste the embodied resources used to create the item.
Vapes must be disposed of at a resource management centre
These items contain batteries, electronics and hazardous substances. In the ACT, they are hazardous waste and need proper disposal.
Drop them off at a Resource Management Centre (Mugga Lane or Mitchell) for safe disposal. If you have a damaged or leaking vape handle with care and deliver as soon as possible to a disposal facility.
Please remember ANU is a smoke-free campus, this includes the use of all smoking products like vapes. The ANU Medical Center or your local doctor can provide advice on options to help you quit smoking, and the Staff Employee Assistance Program and Student Counseling Services provide counseling support for people managing change and stressors. Details of online QUIT programs and other resources are available on the ANU Smoke-Free website.
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