Universal Waste

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What is Universal Waste?

Universal Waste is a category of waste materials not designated as "hazardous waste” but contains materials that need to be prevented from free release into the environment. The Environmental Protection Agency's Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) requires all facilities to comply with proper disposal. When sites fail to comply, fines can be as high as $71,264 per day, per violation.

Universal Waste Includes:

  • Batteries
  • Fluorescent Lamps
  • Pesticides
  • Aerosol Cans
  • Mercury Containing Equipment
  • Mercury Containing Thermostats
Universal Waste Example One

Universal Waste Drop-off/Pickup

Lightbulbs: Facilities staff will remove defective/old/damaged fluorescent lamps when replacing them with new lamps. You will not have to create a separate work order for their disposal.

Batteries and Ink Cartridges: Battery recycling is available across campus for students, faculty, and staff. Yellow Slim Jim Bins are placed near every cardboard recycling station, which also serves as a collection point for ink cartridges. Drop-off locations are:

  • Welch Hall: 3rd and 4th floor in corridors A and B
  • University Library North: 1st, 3rd, and 4th floors near the central elevators
  • University Library North: 2nd floor inside the Office of Sustainability - LIB 2514
  • College of Education: At main entrance 
  • Social & Behavioral Sciences: 3rd floor
  • Natural Sciences & Mathematics: 1st floor, corridor A, across from room A146
  • Student Activities Center (SAC 3): Athletics entrance

Yellow Battery Recycling Bin

The Office of Sustainability has partnered with staff in select buildings to offer these additional drop off areas are for batteries only and have a different style container. 

  • Welch Hall: Visitor's Information Center
  • La Corte Hall: Room E-303
  • College of Education: -Mailroom 1403
  • Innovation & Instruction: 4th floor, room 4500
  • Physical Plant: Room 107
Battery Recycling Bin

Questions about Universal Waste?

If you generate any other universal waste, contact one of the offices below:

CSUDH Sustainability Office - Batteries & Ink Printer Cartridges

CSUDH Work Control - All Other Universal Waste

CSUDH Environmental Health and Safety  - All Other Universal Waste