Sustainability stands as our third and a vital cornerstone, reflecting our team’s goals towards environmental stewardship and responsible campus management. In 2023 and 2024, the Operations team worked closely with the Office of Sustainability to drive impactful initiatives that reduce waste, promote reuse, and align with Stanford’s broader sustainability goals.

Key accomplishments included the pilot of Soap 2.0, implementation of the Biom refillable sanitizing wipe system, and the redesign of waste receptacles to align with our hauler’s waste stream standards—establishing a unified, easy-to-follow system across campus.

To deepen our understanding of waste processing and improve internal practices, the Operations team partnered with the Office of Sustainability and our custodial vendor to tour the Shoreway Environmental Center in San Carlos. Hosted by Recology, the visit offered valuable insight into how the campus’ recyclables are collected, sorted, and processed, as well as the evolving landscape of composting.

Beyond infrastructure, we have also led efforts to educate and engage the campus community through behavior-focused sustainability training. These efforts have reinforced our commitment to building a culture of environmental responsibility and continuous improvement.

Key Initiatives

• Eliminated plastic liners in restroom waste bins to cut down on unnecessary plastic use.
• Conducted waste sorting training for custodial staff and campus occupants.
• Replaced single-use Clorox wipes with the Biom refillable wipe system.
• Soap 2.0 pilot in Academy Hall, which uses refillable soap containers, reducing our carbon footprint and waste.
• Sponsored a Living Lab Fellowship project to test behavioral interventions aimed at improving waste sorting and reducing landfill waste.
• Participated in the university’s Zero Waste Committee to advise and implement reduction strategies campus-wide.

Surplus Program at SRWC

SRWC proudly hosts Stanford’s Surplus department, offering unused campus furniture a second life—either through internal redeployment or sale to staff. Surplus also oversees the proper recycling or disposal of furniture, ensuring responsible end-of-life handling.

Waste Station Standardization

Waste stations across SRWC were redesigned for clarity and consistency, with updated signage and streamlined sorting options based on our waste hauler’s specifications—making it easier than ever for occupants to dispose of waste properly.

Looking Ahead

Our progress reflects an ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship. We’re proud to contribute to Stanford’s sustainability journey and look forward to further innovation in waste reduction and resource conservation in the year ahead.