Reduction and Recycling

Pass on Plastics 

  • Started in 2019.
  • In 2015 Black Hawk County’s Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) was 166,314 tons.
  • Allen College generates approximately 56 tons of waste a year.
    • Of this it is estimated that 14,400 pounds is plastic waste.
  • The Pass on Plastics program resulted in a 55% reduction of plastics waste.
    • 55% Reduction of plastics waste.
    • 33% Increase in plastics recycling.

Pass on Plastics II

  • Focused on the continuation of reducing overall plastic consumption and increasing plastic recycling rates.
  • Our goal is to:
    • Reduce plastic waste an additional 15% or 2,160 pounds.
    • Increase plastics recycling rates an additional 10% for an increase of 1,600 pounds.
  • To help accomplish this Allen College will:
    • Add (2) single-stream recycling units to McElroy Hall.
    • Add recycling bins to the outdoor patios in McElroy Hall and Barrett Forum.
    • Replace the outdoor metal benches and tables with recycled picnic tables and benches.

How can you help:

  • Cut down on your waste!
    • Bring a refillable water bottle to campus for use. Water bottle filling stations are located in:
      • McElroy Hall
      • Barrett Forum
      • Gerard Hall – 1st and 2nd floor
      • Allen Hospital DPT 5th floor lab
    • The breaks rooms have reusable dishes, cups and cutlery for usage.
  • Separate your garbage
    • Bins are located across campus for cans and bottles that can be redeemed.
    • Single stream recycling stations are in Winter Hall and Barrett Forum and being added to McElroy Hall.
      • Separate items that can be recycled by:
        • Plastic Bags & Sacks
        • Styrofoam
        • Cardboard, paper, tin and aluminum
  • Get Involved!
    • Become a member of the Allen College Student Ambassador Green Committee.
    • Organize a campus wide donation drive for charitable organizations.
    • On America Recycles Day, November 15, plan on bringing any unwanted items to your local recycling center.
    • Celebrate Earth Day on April 22 by helping with a community or campus clean up event.