2012 SURF: Tiny Trash Initiative

Tiny Trash Initiative

Mentor: Tyler Kidder, Assistant Director for Sustainable Programs, Facilities Management

The University of Southern Maine (USM) has created its own office waste reduction initiative called My Tiny Trash (MTT). This initiative was launched on all three campuses—Lewiston/Auburn, Portland and Gorham. Offices were given a small desktop trash can to replace the larger desk side trash can and users were asked to empty their own Tiny Trash. Spaces were outfitted with desk side recycling bins as well as communal waste stations in which to empty tiny trashes.

MTT was created to increase recycling and reduce waste in offices at USM. By reducing waste generated on campus, the University saves resources, reduces its carbon footprint, and saves money on waste disposal costs. This program was rolled out in the summer of 2012 by the Office of Sustainability in Facilities Management.

Learn more about the initiative at http://usm.maine.edu/sustainability/tiny-trash.

Start Slideshow

Tiny Trash Initiative 1: Planning The research fellow planned the approach to convince employees to participate. View Full-Size	Tiny Trash Initiative 2: Dissemination Offices and departments on the Gorham and Portland Campuses were visited. View Full-Size
Tiny Trash Initiative 3: Distribution Tiny trash receptacles were provided to collect waste instead of trashcans. View Full-Size	Tiny Trash Initiative 4: Education Users were educated regarding the features of the Tiny Trash Initiative. View Full-Size
Tiny Trash Initiative 5: Weighing A portable waste station was designed, built, and used to measure results. View Full-Size	Tiny Trash Initiative 6: Utilization My tiny trash containers are being seen on desks in offices throughout USM. View Full-Size