Waste

Zero Waste

Sacramento State is committed to achieving Zero Waste by 2030, with a goal of diverting at least 90% of campus waste from landfills through reduction, reuse, recycling, and composting. Through innovative programs and strong campus engagement, Sac State makes waste reduction both accessible and impactful. Students, faculty, and staff are empowered to make responsible choices by properly sorting materials, reducing single-use items, and participating in reuse initiatives. Our three-stream centralized waste stations, reuse programs, and advanced on-site composting systems work together to keep valuable materials in use and out of landfills. By combining education, infrastructure, and community action, Sac State is building a culture where sustainability is part of everyday life.

A sunny picture of the waste bins on the sac state campus.

Picture of the AI waste sorter located in the Sac State Union.

Be a Zero Hero and help Sac State become a Zero Waste campus!

Sac State is leading the way in sustainability with innovative programs that make waste reduction simple and impactful. Use Oscar, our AI-powered trash bin, to sort waste correctly, or test your skills in the interactive Hornet Waste Challenge. Need help? Check out the Printable Waste Sorting Guide, attend Hornet Trash Talk, or book a training session. Exchange items through Hornet Reuse and discover valuable surplus goods for departments via Hornet Surplus. Additionally, our advanced on-site composting systems convert organic waste into a useful resource.
Join the movement. Be a Zero Hero—because every item sorted makes a difference.

Centralized Waste

Sacramento State has implemented a campus-wide Centralized Waste Program to improve waste diversion, reduce landfill contamination, enhance custodial efficiency, and ensure compliance with California Senate Bill 1383. The program moved from individually serviced deskside trash bins to strategically placed shared waste stations in common areas, where building occupants transport and sort materials into landfill, recycling, and organics streams. This streamlined system improves sorting accuracy, reduces contamination, and directly supports campus climate goals.

Centralized waste systems are a proven best practice across higher education, strengthening sustainability outcomes while improving day-to-day operations. Through this redesigned approach to waste management, Sacramento State is enhancing operational efficiency, maintaining regulatory compliance, and reinforcing its commitment to environmental leadership. See our Helpful Links section for additional information.