Sustainability at UNK

UNK Recycle LogoWhat is sustainability? It’s a complex concept. The most often quoted definition comes from the UN Bruntland commission: “sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”

By focusing on UNK’s sustainability in development and operations, we recognize that resources are finite, and not only will sustainable practices support longterm human and ecological health, but our economic health and vitality.

The strategic plan committee identified responsible stewardship as one of the four values for the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Future generations depend upon our efforts to maintain sustainable practices in our day-to-day operations. The document states the need for UNK to secure, generate, and responsibly steward the resources necessary to execute the strategies outlines in the sustainability master plan.

Sustainability Master Plan

Recycling Guidelines

Acceptable Unacceptable
  • Paper
  • Plastic bags
  • Glass bottles/jars
  • Plastics #1, 2, 4, and 5 (check bottom of container for #)
  • Cardboard boxes, cereal boxes, pop cartons (flatten)
  • Plastic containers (rinsed)
  • Books
  • Post-it notes
  • Envelopes
  • Food
  • Styrofoam
  • Ceramics
  • Mirrors
  • Packing peanuts/plastic
  • Bubble wrap
  • Paper towels/cups
  • Everyday trash
  • Tissues/napkins