A MSU Community Initiative

Montana State University’s updated Zero Waste strategy makes waste reduction a campus-wide effort: every student, staff member, faculty member, and partner has a role. Zero waste means designing systems to prevent waste at the source and keep materials in use through reuse, recycling, and composting, sending as little as possible to the landfill. MSU’s goal is 90% diversion by 2035, guided by three connected pillars: Upstream Waste Management, Culture Shift, and Landfill Diversion; powered by unified purchasing, shared waste-tracking data, and a continuous improvement loop that tests what works and scales it across campus. Montana State Univeristy currently sits at a 28.5 percent diversion rate. For more information please visit our Fiscal Year 2025 Annual Zero Waste Report (LINK) maybe dont need this graph, can live on other page 

Since the recycling/composting program began, MSU has diverted nearly 16,073,378 pounds of material from our local landfill (Through November of 2025).

History of Zero Waste at MSU

Learn about how Zero Waste innitiatives started at Montana State Univeristy

 

Recycling at MSU

Ever why Bozeman does not recycle glass or what types of plastics are recycable? 

Composting at MSU

Did you know composting is one of our largest contriubtions to Zero Waste at MSU?

Hosting Zero Waste Events

Hosting an event on campus and want it to be zero waste or curious about large campus events? Click here

Zero Waste Reports & Strategies

Part of progress is being able to communicate where we are. Find more information our reporting here.

Zero Waste Best Practices & Doing Your Part

These projects are made possible through the generosity of our donors.

So What Goes Where?

The number one way to support Zero Waste Efforts at Montana State is to know what material recycle, compost, and trash. Reading signage and being an engaged user helps our Zero Waste goal every day!

    A table describing what can and cannot be recycled at Montana State University.

Have questions, ideas, or concerns? Please reach out to the Office of Sustainability!