Campus Race to Zero Waste 2022

Learn about Campus Race to Zero Waste 2022 events and programming from now through mid-March!

What is Campus Race to Zero Waste?

Join us for the University of Pittsburgh’s Campus Zero Waste (CRZW) 2022. Zero waste programming will take place throughout February and March and includes programming for both students and staff as part of Campus Race to Zero Waste. This friendly competition is a national benchmarking opportunity for colleges and universities to promote waste reduction and material diversion activities over an 8 week period.

Check out their website to see where Pitt placed in previous years.

Pitt is having events throughout February and March as part of Campus Race to Zero Waste. Below are a list of events – make sure to check back soon as more details are still being added!

Campus Race to Zero Waste Schedule

Zero Waste Challenge

The Zero Waste Instagram Challenge encourages the Pitt community to use reusable items across campus and reduce waste. Progress will be tracked by pictures sent through Instagram DMs or email pitteats@pitt.edu. All food orders MUST be in a reusable container to qualify for points. 

Reach 15 points – Prize = Latte voucher 

Reach 25 points –Prize = Meal voucher 

Reach 45 Points – Prize = Reusable Gatorade bottle & cutlery 

Reach 60 points – Prize = Sustainability prize pack & $100 Pitt Bookstore gift card

Get Points:

  • Use a reusable container at CrEate, 10 points
  • Use a reusable container at Eatery or Perch, 10 points
  • Use a reusable container at PA Tacos, 10 points
  • Use a reusable container at Paper Lantern, 10 points
  • Use a reusable cup or mug at a coffee shop, 5 points
  • Use a reusable bag at Forbes Street market or Markets, 5 points
  • Get a plant forward meal from Eatery or Perch, 5 points
  • Find the new Wicked Pie Pizza Box composting bins, 5 points

The Period Talk: Menstrual Equity Info Session & Reusable Menstrual Product Giveaway

March 18 from 3-4pm, Student Office of Sustainability (WPU 510)
You remember “The Period Talk,” right? That super awkward time you first learned about menstruation? Well get ready for an updated version! Join us as we talk about menstrual equity – the affordability, accessibility, and safety of menstrual products – and how it relates to sustainability. Stick around to receive a FREE reusable menstrual cup or pad (pre-signups only) Event open to all students and employees. Hosted by: Planned Parenthood x Pitt EcoReps x Free the Planet.

Sign up to receive a product & learn more.

Recycle Your Bicycle

March 17 – 19
Donate bikes, bike parts, bike clothing, and all other bike-centric items to benefit the Pitt Bike Cave, Free Ride, and Red Lantern!
Donations of bikes, tricycles, scooters, and skateboards (all ride-able and not ride-able), will be accepted, along with bike clothing, bike parts, bike tools and accessories.
If bikes are rust covered or not ride-able, they may be pared down for parts.
Helmets will not be accepted unless they are new and unused.  Learn more.

Donation Drop-off Dates:

  • Thursday, March 17 at 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Friday, March 18 at 12:00pm to 4:00pm
  • Saturday, March 19 at 10:00am to 12:00pm

Uplifting BIPOC Voices in the Environmental Movement

March 25  from 3 to 5 pm, Student Office of Sustainability (WPU 510)

Join Free the Planet and the Student Office of Sustainability for a discussion on uplifting BIPOC voices in the environmental movement as part of Campus Race to Zero Waste. Learn More.

Thriftsburgh’s Birthday Party and Dollar Sale

March 25th 11am-4pm, O’Hara Student Center  

Stop by Thriftsburgh on May 25th to help us celebrate our 7th birthday with a dollar sale, cupcakes and special treats! Visit us on the socials for more info!

Sustainable Valentine’s Day Workshop

February 11 from 3-5 pm  |   Center for Creativity, University Store lower level
Join the Student Office of Sustainability for this to learn more about CRZW, the importance of being sustainable on Valentine’s Day, and participate in sustainable activities + gift making!  Learn more and RSVP Here!

Pitt Pantry x Plant2Plate Food Insecurity Workshop 

February 20 from 5-6 pm |  William Pitt Union 510 (SOOS)
Join the Plant 2 Plate Student Garden as they discuss the issue of food insecurity at the University, in the area, and in the country. This workshop will talk about how we can address food waste and food insecurity in our community and beyond.  Pizza and prizes!  Learn more.

Zero Waste Career Panel

Monday, February 28 from 6 to 7p.m. (Virtual)
Do you or someone you know want to work in sustainability, but are unsure of your options?  Or , are you interested in just learning more about sustainable careers in generally?  Get to know some eco-friendly alumni from the Student Office of Sustainability — and the sustainable careers they have gone on to pursue.  Learn more.

Clean & Swap Day

March 9 & 10 from 9 am-3 pm  |  O’Hara Student Center 

Spring break is the perfect time to de-clutter your workspace! Bring unwanted items, equipment, expired medical supplies, and plants to the O’Hara Student Center. If you like, leave with a useful item someone else left behind!

This event will take place March 9 & 10, 2022, in the O’Hara Student Center, including access to a temporary parking spot that can be used to drop off items. 

All donated items donated will find new homes with other Pitt departments and/or local nonprofits OR be recycled or disposed of properly (i.e., electronics). 

We will NOT be accepting chemicals. If you have unwanted chemicals. please use EH&S’s free Chemical Redistribution Program 

Register Now 

Uplifting BIPOC Voices in the Environmental Movement

March 25 from 3- 5 pm  |  William Pitt Union Room 510 

Join Free the Planet and the Student Office of Sustainability for a discussion on uplifting BIPOC voices in the environmental movement as part of Campus Race to Zero Waste.

Have questions about waste diversion on the University of Pittsburgh campus and in general? Learn more!

Pittsburgh community resources on materials diversion and recycling;

TAGS: Engagement & Awareness , Materials & Waste ,