Accelerating a zero-waste future

Zero Waste

A zero-waste future requires a systemic approach. At Harvard, we aim to sustainably manage all waste streams—including plastics, electronics, recyclables, and organics, as well as construction, demolition, and hazardous waste—while prioritizing waste prevention and reduction.

Explore upcoming Zero Waste events:

Framework for Waste Stewardship

Zero Waste Future

In 2025, Harvard launched “Accelerating a Zero Waste Future: A Framework for Waste Stewardship,” a new plan to transition our campuses to zero waste. Developed by the Waste Stewardship Steering Committee in collaboration with University leaders, the framework prioritizes waste prevention, reduction, reuse, and responsible recovery, and aligns with Harvard’s Sustainability Action Plan.

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Cover page of the PDF “Accelerating a Zero Waste Future: A Framework for Waste Stewardship” layed over a photo of a person picking up trash outside.

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0 events 13 0 events, 13	1 event 14 1 event, 14 11:30 am – 5:30 pm Plaza Open Market July 14 @ 11:30 am – 5:30 pm Plaza Open Market Building on the success of the long-running Farmers’ Market, join us for the exciting “Plaza Open Market” this summer and fall featuring the farm-fresh vendors you know and love, treats to eat at the Plaza or take home, and monthly neighborhood and campus partners pop-up promotions, performances, and showcases.	0 events 15 0 events, 15	0 events 16 0 events, 16	0 events 17 0 events, 17	0 events 18 0 events, 18	0 events 19 0 events, 19
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July 14

July 14 @ 11:30 am – 5:30 pm

Plaza Open Market

There are no events on this day.

How is Harvard reducing waste?

Harvard is taking a systemic approach to waste prevention and reduction, aiming to ensure the materials that the University purchases and handles are used effectively and for as long as possible. Harvard is also strategically preventing waste throughout our value chain, while minimizing on-campus municipal solid waste (or trash) and sustainably managing other waste streams.

We are focused on piloting solutions on campus to reduce waste. The Waste Stewardship Committee developed guidance and resources to help Schools and Business Units create their own zero-waste plans and goals.

Harvard will continue to measure and report data annually for Harvard’s major waste streams.

Graphic that prioritizes waste hierarchy: Rethink, Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Rot, Recycle. — When making decisions about managing our waste, prioritize Rethinking and Reducing waste. Source: Recycle Smart

Harvard Recycling & Waste Management

Harvard Recycling and Waste Management, the primary campus waste hauler office at Harvard, manages all waste streams across Harvard’s Cambridge, Allston, and Longwood campuses. Explore their resources:

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