This website explains how the recycling program in residential properties at Columbia University Medical Center works: what materials are recyclable, how and where to recycle them, and what happens after they leave your sight. Columbia University Medical Center complies with all New York City, state and federal regulations. Recycling bins for paper and bottles and cans are available in most buildings, usually in central locations such as lobbies and hallways. Residential Facilities oversees the recycling program at CUMC.

The recycling program depends on your participation. Protect your environment by participating correctly.

Paper and Cardboard

Columbia University Medical Center complies with New York City’s recycling program in all residential buildings. The program requires separating the various kinds of recyclables including all types of paper and cardboard. Paper and cardboard can be discarded together into any receptacles designated for paper. Receptacles marked “Paper” are generally found in central areas such as hallways, lobbies and trash rooms. If a recycling receptacle is missing, contact Residential Facilities. (Note: Towers residents are issued clear plastic trash bags for the disposal of paper waste.)

The custodial staff collects all paper for pickup by the New York City Department of Sanitation.

YES - PLACE IN RECYCLING

NO - PLACE IN TRASH

White, colored and glossy paper (Staples OK, but not spiral bindings.) Mail and envelopes Wrapping paper (Remove ribbon and tape.) Smooth cardboard (Shoe boxes, tubes from paper towel and toilet paper rolls, cardboard from product packaging. For food boxes, remove inside and outside plastic wrappers.) Paper bags Cardboard egg cartons and trays Newspapers, magazines and catalogs Phone books, soft-cover books (Paperbacks, comic books, etc.) Corrugated cardboard (If flattened boxes are large, place them next to the recycling bin.)

Hardcover books (Recyclable, if the cover is removed.) Used napkins, paper towels or tissues Soiled paper cups or plates Heavily soiled paper Plastic- or wax-coated paper or cardboard (Candy wrappers, take-out containers, etc.)

Glass, Metal and Plastic Containers

Columbia University Medical Center complies with New York City’s recycling program in all residential buildings. The program requires separating the various kinds of recyclables including some types of glass, metal, plastic and beverage cartons. Not all plastics and glass are recyclable under New York City’s recycling program; see below for a description of which items are recyclable. Receptacles marked “Bottles & Cans” are found in central areas such as hallways, lobbies and trash rooms. If a recycling receptacle is missing, contact Residential Facilities. (Note: Towers residents are issued clear plastic trash bags for the disposal of glass, metal and plastic container waste.)

The custodial staff collects these recyclables for pickup by the New York City Department of Sanitation.

YES - PLACE IN RECYCLING	NO - PLACE IN TRASH
Glass bottles and jars (Glassware from laboratories is recyclable under a separate program.) Metal cans (Tuna cans, empty aerosol cans, empty and dried-out paint cans with lids removed, for example.) Aluminum foil wrap and trays Household metal (Wire coat hangers, pots, pans, for example.) Plastic bottles and jugs Beverage cartons and drink boxes (Milk and juice.)	Any glass items other than glass bottles and jars (Mirrors, light bulbs, ceramics, and glassware, for example.) Any plastic items other than plastic bottles and jugs (Deli and yogurt containers, plastic toys, cups, plastic tops, bags and wrap, for example.) Styrofoam (Cups, egg cartons, trays, for example.)

Computer and Other Electronic Equipment

Fluorescent Lamps and Other Mercury-Containing Devices

Mercury-containing devices such as fluorescent lamps and ballasts are classified as hazardous waste. Columbia University Medical Center complies with federal regulations for their disposal and recycling in all residential buildings. Incandescent bulbs are not recycled and should be placed in the trash.

If you need a lamp changed, contact your building superintendent. Facilities staff will remove the item to a central area. The Morningside Campus Environmental Health & Safety staff oversees the removal of the material by Northeast Lamp Recycling.

Batteries

Bulk Waste

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