University of Ottawa
OP-T2-43: Move-Out Waste Reduction

The Dump n’ Run program was created four years ago to reduce the waste produced every year when students moved out of residence in May and December. 3 weeks before the big move-out date, bins and tables are conveniently placed at the entrance of residences where students can bring their unwanted goods (unopened canned food, books, clothing, kitchen-ware, office supplies, anything). If living off campus, students can stow their goods in clearly marked boxes and bags on their front porch, and they will be collected by a team of volunteers on the last day students can live in those homes. As a result, 50% of things donated to the Dump n’ Run are sorted and then donated to local charities and community programs. The rest is donated to the Free Store for students to take freely (namely international student who usually have to purchase all new items due to travels). As a side note, as a result of students participating in the program at uOttawa, the Dump and Run has spread to two other institutions: one in Quebec and one in France Other At the same time, we have teams of volunteers who are dumpster-diving; to collect items in good condition, or to be recycled. We also have recycling/composting sorting teams going through the residence floors to collect all recyclable and compostable materials left behind in the kitchens, rooms, etc.