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28 Waste and Recycling G. Waste Minimization Reduce, reuse and recycle are three critical factors in an effective waste minimization program. Iowa State University (ISU) is committed to the creation of a sustainable campus. Iowa State University works to reduce the volume and toxicity of materials purchased, reuse materials on campus or in the community when possible, or recycle materials that have reached the end of their usable life. ISU maintains a recycling committee and several recycling efforts. Hazardous chemical waste minimization is required by the EPA as part of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. Generators of hazardous waste are required to reduce or recycle hazardous chemical waste whenever possible. ISU has several active hazardous waste minimization practices in place. Recycling/Reuse Appliances Used appliances are collected by Facilities Planning and Managment (FP&M) for demanufacturing and recycling at a local scrap yard. Ballasts PCB and non-PCB ballasts are collected by FP&M and recycled by Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S). Batteries Iowa State University returns automotive and large sealed gel-cell batteries to a local distributor for recycling. Smaller rechargeable batteries are collected and recycled through the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Company (RBRC). Chemical Redistribution Unwanted chemical products suitable for reuse are segregated from waste chemicals and offered for redistribution to campus users. These chemical products still need to be submitted for pick up similar to a routine waste pick up. Computers and Electronics Computers and electronics are first offered for resale to the public through the Iowa State University Surplus department. Unsold items are recycled by a contractor. Campus users are encouraged to upgrade electronic components when possible and replace only when necessary.