Waste minimization is a priority for the university. By focusing on the waste hiearchy, particularly reuse and recycling, we can produce less waste and divert as much as possible from the landfill. 

A comprehensive, single-stream recycling system was introduced in 2012. 

• Learn More About Campus Recycling

Hazardous waste generated at the University of Saskatchewan through research, academics or other activities is collected, organized, and disposed of by Safety Resources through its Waste Management Facility in accordance with prescribed university standards and applicable regulations. Hazardous waste collection and management services are provided for both regulated and non-regulated chemical waste.

The University of Saskatchewan maintains an institutional chemical inventory that provides improved tracking and management of chemicals and other hazards materials on campus. There is a central chemical repository is designed to facilitate the reuse or exchange of unused chemicals among users. Safety Resources also handles spill response and reporting. There are several provincial environmental regulations that require reporting and responses for spills.

Waste audits are conducted regularly at the university to understand our waste profiles and issues.

2019 Waste Audit Report

Compostable organic matter* now represents ~60% of material that goes to the landfill, up from 44% in 2008. This represents a major issue for not just the University of Saskatchewan, but also for the City of Saskatoon as they face their own organic waste issues.

In 2018, the City of Saskatoon proceeded with a city-wide curbside organic collection program. As infrastructure and programs develop, the university will continue to work with the City to ensure that composting and organic waste management is available at the U of S campus.

^{* This does not include waste from university grounds management. Currently most grounds waste is composted.}