In 2015 the University of Michigan’s President’s Office formed a committee with the goal of reducing waste. That effort led to color schemes, terminology, and signage that has become familiar to University staff, faculty, and students.

With the goal of improving waste management within the community, the city of Ann Arbor has decided to adopt those standards. Aligning signage between the university and city was seen as a common-sense approach to sustainability, and will start with Ann Arbor City Hall and Ann Arbor city parks.

The Office of Campus Sustainability’s mission includes identifying, supporting, and coordinating opportunities to reduce energy consumption and increase sustainable operations on campus that may go beyond what is required to meet campus goals. Ann Arbor’s sustainability framework includes a goal of responsible resource use – to produce zero waste and optimize the use and reuse of resources in our community. By working together, the city and university advance their mutual goal of a more sustainable community.