University of Kentucky boasts record waste diversion during football season

The University of Kentucky (UK) and UK Athletics are working toward a goal to make Kroger Field a zero-waste facility by 2030.

To reach that goal, the university’s recycling and athletic departments have encouraged stadium goers to recycle glass bottles, aluminum cans, plastic bottles and jugs and empty pizza boxes. A full list of recyclable items at UK can be found here.

This past football season, Kroger Field diverted 32 percent, or a total of 59.2 tons, of waste from landfill. This is a 10 percent increase from the last season.

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“The 2023 season was exciting for all. We appreciate the effort of all fans and staff that participated in our sustainability efforts,” says Scott Geisinger with UK Athletics Operations. “We look forward to carrying that momentum in 2024.”

Additionally, UK Recycling piloted a food waste composting program at Kroger Field this season, collecting 1.24 tons of food waste. UK Recycling plans to expand this program next season.

UK Dining also reached a waste reduction milestone this season, reducing the amount of food leftover after each game by an average of 135 pounds compared to last season.