Frequently Asked Questions

Sustainability is ensuring that resources are used responsibly. It is our ability to meet the needs of the present without compromising future generations. Sustainability is comprised of three pillars: environment, society, and economy. When all three are working together equally, an efficient sustainable system is being utilized.

Recycling bins are located throughout the main and west campus. Howard University’s recycling is multi-streamed, meaning each recyclable material must be sorted into its own bin. Plastic bottles and metal cans should be placed in blue recycling bins. Paper should be placed in green bins or other specified bins (paper recycling in libraries or technology centers are often metal and gray in color). All cardboard can be broken down and placed neatly between the green and blue bins. It is important that all materials are clean before placing them in bins. If any items are contaminated, they cannot be recycled.

Composting is offered in the Halo G.R.E.E.N. Garden, located to the left of Howard Plaza Towers West. The garden has a compost cooperative on the second and fourth Sunday of every month from 10 – 11 a.m. Students and staff can participate by bringing their waste at these times. Please reach out to hucommunitygarden@gmail.com to learn more.

We love to hear that students are making programs on campus more sustainable. The easiest way to make an event more sustainable is for you or your organization to use reusable, recyclable, or compostable materials. Utilizing technology as much as possible is also important so that you can limit paper waste. If you would like any more tips, please contact sustainability@howard.edu.

If you have a project that you would like to propose to The Office of Sustainability, please reach out by contacting sustainability@howard.edu to discuss your idea in further detail. We can help you refine your project and determine the feasibility. The office strives to support students and implement their ideas in all projects, so do not hesitate to reach out.

Environmental Studies/Science majors and minors are offered on Howard’s campus. If you are passionate about sustainability and the environment, we suggest you look into the opportunities here: https://ids.howard.edu/academics/environmental-studies. This program focuses on environmental problems currently plaguing our nation and the global community, but pays particular attention to issues disproportionately affecting people of color. Issues such as climate change and toxic exposures require leadership and solutions that include the full diversity of all people.