A waste audit helps schools identify the types and quantities of materials in their waste streams. Through audits, students become "garbologists"—scientists who study garbage—while gathering data to improve campus recycling and composting.
Why do a waste audit investigation? Waste audits help your school:
- Assess how well materials are being sorted
- Identify items frequently placed in wrong bins (contamination)
- Measure progress toward waste reduction goals
- Engage students in hands-on environmental science
By understanding your waste stream, you can identify opportunities and develop strategies to educate your peers and reduce waste.
Resource List
Getting Started
Waste Audit How To Guide
This quick how-to-guide provides a general overview of the steps to conduct a school waste audit.
School Binventory Assessment Worksheet
A tool to help inventory your current bin setups around campus.
Custodial Letter Template
Template letter for coordinating with custodial staff, who play a critical role in waste audit success. Also available as an editable doc.
Resource List
Conducting the Audit
Waste Audit Procedures
Step-by-step presentation for training student auditors. Also available as a slideshow.
Sample Waste Audit Data Sheet
A template for recording audit findings. Also available as a spreadsheet.
Resource List
Real World Examples
Dublin High School Waste Audit Report
Waste audit report created by the Dublin High School Student Climate Corp.
King Middle School Waste Audit Report
Example waste audit report for King Middle School in Berkeley.
Next Steps
After completing your audit, use your findings to:
- Update signage for commonly mis-sorted items
- Adjust bin placement and labeling
- Develop targeted education for students and staff
- Set measurable waste reduction goals
Ready to take action on your findings? Connect with StopWaste to support your actions.
Get Support
Questions about conducting a waste audit?