Trent University is striving to achieve zero-waste by 2028, and a simple initiative by the Sustainability Office is making a big difference. 

Caretaking Services has switched washroom bins from garbage to compost collection across Trent's Symons campus, making it easier for the campus community to properly dispose of organic material. This move matches the efforts at Trent University Durham GTA, which has been using compost bins in washrooms for a few years.  

“Last year, the Trent community used 7,350 rolls of paper towels, much of which ended up in the garbage or contaminating recycling,” said Shelley Strain, sustainability coordinator at Trent. “Where to put paper towel causes general confusion as paper towel is compostable.” 

By properly sorting paper towel waste into our green bins, Trent can divert over 12 tonnes of material from landfills annually. 

Last year, Blackburn Hall served as a pilot area for this change with successful results.  

“We saw virtually no contamination, thanks to everyone’s cooperation,” said Shannon Brockbank, environmental services manager. “We’re excited to roll out this change to all washrooms across campus.”  

In-stall bins remain for personal items, and hallway stations now handle other garbage. 

“Together, we’ve already made significant strides as a community. Annual waste audits show consistent diversion rates of 70 to 80 percent,” said Shelley. “Zero-waste is defined as 90 percent diversion, and with this system in place and the Trent community showing time and again that they are committed to sustainability, we will keep getting closer to that goal." 

Learn more about the Sustainability Office and its initiatives.