The Recycling Committee was initially formed in the spring of 1998, from students of the Biology Students' Society and the Environment club and was chaired by Prof. Sonia Nasr. In March 1999, the AUB President, Dr. J. Waterbury, formally appointed the University Recycling Committee (URC) and the recycling Project has been since then going steady and strong in fulfilling its objectives and making AUB a more environment-friendly place.

I. Phase One: Paper recycling

This phase was initiated in Spring 1998. Posters and brochures were prepared, and messages were sent out to the AUB community explaining the objectives of the project and requesting full collaboration.

AUB community responded very favorably to the project, and 7.37 tons of paper were collected from the main campus in the first month. As of February of 2000, all AUB premises became equipped with paper recycling bins and boxes.

In March 2000, a formal mechanism was set and approved by the President for the collection. It involves full collaboration between several university units.

II. Phase two: Glass and aluminum recycling

This phase was initiated in March 2000. Collection units for glass and aluminum recycling were established in faculty apartments, the university cafeteria, and the Engineering milk bar. As of February 2001, special cans and glass collection units (see photo) have been distributed in various locations throughout the campus.

III. Phase three: Printers ribbons and cartridges

This phase was initiated during spring 2001. It involves recycling of various cartridges and ribbons used for printers and plotters. Administrative, and academic, units are urged to contact URC for assistance in collection.

IV. Phase four: Used oil

By the end of 2005, URP has initiated a new phase for collecting used cooking oil from the AUB cafeteria, and residences. A local firm will purchase the collected oil and reform it for further use.

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