To reduce the waste that is generated by building occupants and hauled to and disposed of in landfills and incinerators.
Maintain a waste reduction and recycling program that reuses, recycles, or composts the following:
- at least 50% of the ongoing waste as specified in Materials and Resources Prerequisite: Ongoing Purchasing and Waste Policy (by weight or volume); and
- at least 75% of the durable goods waste as specified in Materials and Resources Prerequisite: Ongoing Purchasing and Waste Policy (by weight, volume or replacement value).
In addition, safely dispose of the following:
- all discarded batteries; and
- all mercury-containing lamps.
K–12 schools may exclude food waste from the final performance calculations of the total building waste stream by meeting both of the following requirements.
- Provide documentation that food waste composting services are not available in the region or are not economically feasible, based on the school or district’s operational budget for solid waste management.
- During the performance period, implement an awareness program that encourages occupants to reduce food waste. Compliant programs should include at least two of the following:
- signage in food service and cafeteria areas;
- food service employee training on reducing waste in food preparation and selecting menu options to reduce the potential for food waste; and
- extracurricular activities or student organizations that promote awareness of the environmental benefits associated with composting food waste.
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