A training session titled “Reducing Campus Waste and Establishing Recycling Infrastructure” was held at Mingachevir State University for students of Group 24 majoring in Ecology. The training was organized by Ayshen Salmanova, a lecturer at the Department of Physics and Ecology. The session focused on waste management on campus, waste reduction strategies, and the development of recycling systems. Students actively participated in discussions and exchanged ideas on implementing a sustainable waste management model within the university campus.
The main focus of the training was on strategies for reducing waste at the source. It was emphasized that minimizing the use of single-use products, promoting reuse systems, implementing paperless campus initiatives, adopting green procurement policies, and purchasing durable and repairable equipment play a key role in waste prevention. Practical measures such as encouraging reusable containers, offering discounts for bringing personal cups, and adopting a “think before you print” policy were discussed.
Significant attention was also given to the establishment of recycling infrastructure on campus. Detailed information was provided on the strategic placement of collection points, color-coding and labeling standards, dual collection systems, and the collection, temporary storage, and transportation logistics of special waste (including electronic, hazardous, and textile waste). International color standards were explained: blue (paper), yellow (plastic/metal), green (glass), and brown (organic waste).
A comprehensive presentation was delivered on organic waste management and composting. Sources of organic waste such as cafeteria kitchen waste, food leftovers, and garden residues (branches and leaves) were identified. Various composting methods, including open composting, vermicomposting, and the Bokashi method, were introduced. The use of produced compost as fertilizer in campus green areas and its potential distribution among students were also discussed.
In the final part of the training, issues related to awareness, motivation, and sustainability were addressed. Discussions covered student engagement, the establishment of recycling ambassador (volunteer) systems, organizing competitions among dormitories using gamification methods, installing digital displays showing collected waste amounts, maintaining monthly waste statistics, and preparing annual sustainability reports.
The session concluded with an interactive discussion, during which participants’ questions were answered. Students Fatima Aliyeva, Gulchana Mammadova, Hafiza Mustafazade, and Alakbar Zulfuliyev shared their impressions of the training. Fatima Aliyeva expressed interest in learning about campus metabolism and waste audit methods; Gulchana Mammadova highlighted gaining new knowledge about composting technologies and organic waste management; Hafiza Mustafazade and Alakbar Zulfuliyev emphasized the practical importance of recycling infrastructure and color-coding systems. It was noted that reducing waste and establishing recycling infrastructure on campus is a shared responsibility that requires the active participation of all students and staff.