Reducing Waste and Boosting Sustainability

Bentley recently completed its first waste minimization plan. The plan is a key part of Bentley’s Sustainability Climate Action Plan that aims to reduce the total volume of waste generated by the university and enhance sustainable purchasing and contracting practices. 

The waste minimization plan was created by the Waste Minimization Task Force, which was led by the Office of Sustainability and consultant GreenerU and includes members from Facilities Management, Dining Services, Residential Center, Procurement, waste provider Casella, GreenerU, students and staff all participated in the plan’s creation.  This group is also responsible for the execution of the plan. 

The plan outlines four focus areas — reduce, reuse, engage and dining. Bentley has already made significant strides, achieving a 42% diversion of waste from landfills over the past 16 years. The university aims to reduce overall material disposal by 10% and increase sustainable purchasing by 2026.  

According to Natalie Hayes, director of the Office of Sustainability, engagement within the campus community is crucial to generate policy and behavioral change. Dining is an important partner that has already made a large impact in waste diversion, but they have committed to helping move the needle even further. 

Hayes says the university acknowledges the environmental and health impacts of waste, particularly on marginalized communities. “Through comprehensive policy changes, operational overhauls and community education, Bentley’s waste minimization plan represents a proactive approach to mitigating these challenges and fostering a more sustainable future.”