Policy for Minimization of Disposable Items

Policy Adopted in: 2012

Last Updated in: 2023

Application

This Policy applies to all the students, staff and visitors

Purpose

1. To reduce the consumption of disposable items on campus, including single-use plastics, paper products, and other non-durable materials.
2. To encourage sustainable alternatives, reusable options, and responsible procurement practices within the university community.
3. To raise awareness and educate students, faculty, and staff about the importance of reducing disposable items and the benefits of sustainable practices.

Policy

Strategies for Minimizing Disposable Items

Procurement Guidelines:

The university adopts sustainable procurement practices that prioritize products with minimal packaging and items that can be reused, recycled, or composted. Where feasible, the procurement department will give preference to suppliers offering products with reduced packaging and environmentally responsible materials.

Reusable Options:

The university encourages the use of reusable items by providing accessible water refill stations and reusable utensils, plates, and cups at campus dining facilities. The sale of reusable bags and containers, such as coffee cups and water bottles is promoted at campus stores.

Elimination of Single-Use Plastics:

The university actively works to eliminate single-use plastic items, such as straws, cutlery, and plastic bags, in collaboration with food service providers and vendors.

Packaging Reduction:

The university works with vendors and suppliers to minimize excessive packaging for products and shipments. All incoming shipments adhere to packaging guidelines that prioritize sustainable and minimal packaging.

Campus Events:

Campus event organizers are encouraged to minimize disposable items, such as event flyers, pamphlets, and promotional materials, and opt for electronic distribution. Where disposable items are necessary, organizers ensure they are recyclable or compostable.

Education and Awareness:

The university conducts regular awareness campaigns, workshops, and educational programs to inform the campus community about the environmental impact of disposable items and the benefits of reduction. Prominent signage and communication is used to remind the campus community to reduce disposable item usage and embrace sustainable practices.

Monitoring and Reporting

The university measures and reports on its progress in minimizing disposable items through annual sustainability reports and periodic waste audits.

Key performance indicators include data on reduced consumption of disposable items, increased use of reusable products, and progress toward eliminating single-use plastics.

Compliance and Enforcement

All departments, faculty, staff, and students are expected to adhere to this policy and actively participate in minimizing disposable items on campus.

Non-compliance with this policy may result in disciplinary actions in accordance with university policies and procedures.

Campus Community Engagement

The university actively seeks input and engagement from students, faculty, and staff to foster a culture of sustainability and responsibility in reducing disposable items.

This policy reinforces the university's commitment to sustainability and responsible resource management. By minimizing disposable items and promoting reusable alternatives, the GU aims to reduce its environmental footprint and contribute to a more environmentally sustainable campus community.