Recycling

At Durham University we strive to recycle as many things as possible, aiming to recycle 70% of our waste by 2042. We offer a mixed recycling provision across the estate that includes metals, plastics, and card and paper. 

Outside of the standard recyclable streams, we also offer a range of recycling provisions for other items: 

Vapes: You can recycle your vapes at the large bin inside Bill Bryson Library. Please do not throw vapes into the general waste or other recycling streams as this can cause a fire. See below for two useful links on the dangers of not recycling vapes properly. 

Food: At all our cafes and retail outlets and all of our catered colleges, we measure the amount of food generated at the University.  Food waste is collected and sent for anaerobic digestion, generating useful biogas and fertiliser. We are expanding this service to include self-catered colleges in 2025. In academic year2022/2023 we recycled 442tonnes of food waste, in 2023/2024 we recycled 250 tonnes of food waste, almost 15% of our total waste footprint. 

Batteries: We use Valpak EcoBat to recycle all batteries across the estate. Each department has a central battery collection point. You can email the waste.collections@durham.ac.uk team to arrange for disposal once full. 

Confidential Waste: We utilise on site shredding service for confidential waste. Please contact waste.enquiries@durham.ac.uk for arrange a collection. 

Useful Links 

Recycle Your Electricals Vapes Film 

Vape Processing: Electrical Waste (WEEE) Disposal and Recycling - Gap Group