A Sustainable Move-Out Tradition at Rice University
At the end of each semester, Rice University’s Office of Sustainability leads the charge in turning move-out into a movement. “Give a Hoot! Donate Your Loot!” is our annual campus-wide collection campaign that encourages students to donate gently used items instead of sending them to the landfill.
What began as a campus living lab project has grown into a celebrated sustainability success story. The program exemplifies how student-led innovation can evolve into a lasting institutional resource that benefits the entire Rice community.
How It Works
In partnership with Green City Recycler and Housing & Dining, we set up donation stations across residential colleges and key campus locations. Students can drop off:
- Clothing and shoes
- Small appliances and electronics
- Household goods and décor
Green City Recycler ensures that all textiles are responsibly resold or recycled.
Program Highlights & Awards
- As of August 2025, over 32,300 pounds of donations have been diverted from landfills
- Recognized by Keep Texas Beautiful as the 2025 Outstanding Program of the Year
- Recognized by Keep Houston Beautiful as a 2023 Mayor's Proud Partner award winner
- 2025 Honorable Mention Recognition - The Beth Brown Boettner Award for Outstanding Public Education/Outreach Program by the National Recycling Coalition (NRC)
Why It Matters
“Give a Hoot! Donate Your Loot!” is more than a move-out campaign—it’s a reflection of Rice’s commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and innovation. By participating, students contribute to a circular economy and help build a more sustainable future for Houston and beyond.
