DonateNYC helps achieve zero waste dorm move-out

When spring arrives at New York City’s 140 colleges and universities, departing students generate literally tons of waste each year on their way out of dorms and off-campus housing. Students leave behind unwanted items that can be reused or recycled. That’s when the city’s DonateNYC program steps in, offering resources and guidelines for a zero waste dorm move-out

Instead of tossing gently used goods, they can be donated and recycled, which not only helps students reduce waste and save energy and resources–it could help them save money. The NYC Department of Sanitation provides a range of programs and resources to help students and school facilities managers manage the disposal of unwanted items during the school year and when it ends.

Ways to make the big move-out more sustainable include identifying places where items can be donated; a free app locates donation centers. Damaged items that can’t be donated? No problem, look to the handy How to Get Rid Of tool for ways to get rid of stuff no one else wants.

A guide for school facilities managers offers some great ways to make the big move-out more sustainable with resources like these:

• RefashionNYC facilitates clothing donation through free and convenient in-building donation bins. Schools can enroll their dorms to receive the bins.
• EcycleNYC is a free and convenient electronic waste recycling service. Electronics are recycled domestically according to strict industry and environmental standards; any data on electronics is fully erased.
• DonateNYC’s online exchange connects schools looking to get rid of large items with local nonprofits in need. School facilities managers can register as exchange users on behalf of their schools to create listings for donation items, which can save money on disposal costs and help local community groups save on purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Keep unwanted items out of landfills by donating directly to local nonprofit organizations. DonateNYC Partners accept and distribute second-hand and surplus donated goods to support social services for New Yorkers. Facilities Managers can designate a drop off area for students’ items and arrange for a local nonprofit to pick up the donations.

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