Paper Towel Composting
Paper towels from bathrooms can be collected for composting, instead of trash. This change has been implemented in the Fretwell building, Popp Martin Student Union, and the University Recreation Center (UREC) as of Spring 2025.
Why
Studies of UNC Charlotte buildings show that paper towels and compostable paper make up about 20% of the waste collected. This is the largest single item that we can keep out of the landfill – with your help.
how
New collection bins (see right) in restrooms will help you separate trash from the paper towels. Staff will add the paper towels to the food waste being collected from the dining facilities in Fretwell and the Student Union. Earth Farms Organics, a commercial composting facility, will make this material safe for return to the soil and possible use on campus landscapes.
who
The program is supported by Recycling staff, Building Environmental Services staff, and the Office of Sustainability. With this support of the program, paper towel composting will continue to expand to other campus buildings. For more information on this program, contact Shannon Caveny-Cox at sccaveny@charlotte.edu.
Students, via a grant from the Charlotte Green Initiative (CGI) provided funding to purchase the collection bins for the Fretwell building.
Read the Feb. 8, 2024 Niner Times article about the project: New recycling compost program launched in Fretwell to reduce paper waste