Waste management
We use differently coloured bags during daily collections of waste:
- red bags for general waste (anything that can’t be recycled or isn’t food waste)
- clear bags for recycling (cans, glass, paper and plastic)
- green bags for food waste (food scraps, tea bags and coffee grounds).
Birkbeck's waste is processed under contract with Biffa:
- General waste, which used to go to landfill, is now converted into electricity.
- Mixed recycling is sorted at a recycling facility and made into new products.
- Food waste in anaerobically digested to create biogas.
Find out more about how much waste Birkbeck produces annually.
Find out more about sustainability at Birkbeck.
Disposing of other items
To dispose of items that can't be included in everyday waste/recycling, please raise an ASK.
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Bulky items
- Raise an ASK query about the removal of bulky items, including large boxes, cardboard, unwanted furniture or any large packaging.
- If you need the cleaners to remove bulky items after 9am, you may incur a charge.
- In order to discourage fly-tipping, please do not take your own waste items to the bin area in the passageway between Birkbeck and Student Central.
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Equipment, furniture and wood items
- Raise an ASK query about the removal of furniture, equipment and wood items. You will need to pay a fee for this service.
- These items must be disposed of in accordance with ISO14001 regulations.
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Fridge and chiller disposal
- Raise an ASK query if you have an unwanted fridge, freezer or chiller.
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Confidential waste shredding
- Raise an ASK query for sacks and security tags for your shredding.
- Raise an ASK query to arrange collection of sacks. (Please do not overfill the sacks.)
- Find out more about secure waste disposal from Biffa.