In 2024, UiA was certified as an Eco-Lighthouse. One aspect that was highlighted was the need to improve our recycling rate by effectively sorting our waste.
In 2023, UiA produced 282,796 kg of waste, of which 125,237 kg was residual waste. This results in a recycling rate of around 56 per cent, which is roughly the same as in previous years.
"Our climate and environmental action plan aims for a recycling rate of 75 per cent by 2030. The introduction of recycling stations in Kristiansand in 2020 boosted our recycling rate, but it has now stalled," says environmental adviser Katharina Reionn Bjørnestøl.
To achieve this goal, we need to take action – and both staff and students can help.
Test yourself - take our recycling quiz 😊
Six tips for recycling and waste reduction
1. Use a reusable cup for coffee and tea
Every year, 500 billion disposable cups are used worldwide (source: NHO, Confederation of Norwegian Enterprise), and most end up as residual waste, contributing significantly to waste production. Did you know you can bring your own cup when buying coffee at SiA?
2. Finish your coffee!
Did you know that each Swede pours an average of 300 cups of coffee down the sink every year? It's likely similar for us Norwegians (source: Eco-Lighthouse). This is "invisible" waste as it goes down the drain. Imagine how much money we could save by finishing our coffee.
3. Use reusable plates and cutlery
when you buy food in the staff and student cafeteria! This simple action can save a lot of packaging. Be sure to return the plate and cutlery when you're finished, making the job a bit easier for the cafeteria staff.
4. Finish your food!
On average, each Norwegian throws away 84.7 kg of edible food annually. Food waste contributes to 8-10 per cent of all global greenhouse gas emissions, so reducing waste has significant benefits for the environment (source: Mattilsynet, Norwegian Food Safety Authority).
5. Check the recycling symbol on packaging
Before disposing of waste, look for a recycling symbol on the packaging. At UiA, we use national recycling symbols for waste, so you'll see the same symbols and colours at our recycling stations as those on the packaging.
6. Use sortere.no
If you're unsure about the correct way to recycle, there's plenty of help available. You might even discover some tips to help you sort more effectively at home. Remember, recycling correctly can also save you money. (Note: Website is in Norwegian)