Single use reduction
![BC government banner to promote the reduction of single use plastic](../../../assets/images/bc-single-use.jpg)
Reusable opportunities on campus
- Eco-Box: The Eco-Box/Eco-Card reusable container exchange program offers a zero-waste option for all takeaway meals at the Cove Dining Facility and Mystic Market kiosks. All on-campus residents receive a free Eco-Card as part of their welcome package, while others can join the program with a $5 investment.
- Beverage Cups: Customers can opt for reusable drinking options at the Cove Dining Facility, with glasses, coffee cups, and soft drink reusable cups available. Enjoy $0.25 off your drink purchase at any campus food outlet when you bring your own mug.
- Water refilling stations across campus support sustainability efforts.
BC single-use and plastic-ware prevention regulation
As of December 20, 2023, our campus adheres to provincial regulations to minimize single-use plastics and plastic waste. The Office of Campus Planning and Sustainability collaborates with food service providers to exceed compliance standards and meet upcoming regulatory deadlines.
Our actions include:
- Plastic Shopping Bags: UVic does not sell or distribute plastic shopping bags on campus, complying with municipal by-laws.
- Utensils: All food service utensils (forks, spoons, knives, chopsticks, stir sticks) are crafted from uncoated wood or bamboo, aligning with BC regulations.
- Straws: University Food Services chooses AARDVARK paper straws, which are made in the USA and decompose in 45-60 days. Aardvark paper straws are BPA-free, food safe, and FDA/EU compliant, CA Prop 65 compliant, PFOA and PF0S compliant and allergen free.
- Packaging: No polystyrene foam is used in food and beverage packaging. Compostable and oxo-biodegradable plastics will be entirely phased out by July 2024.
- Accessories: Food service accessories like lids, sleeves, utensils, napkins, wet wipes, and straws are not automatically provided to customers. They are available at self-serve stations for optional use. Lids can be included for mobile apps or delivery orders.
Continuous improvement:
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Incentives: We encourage reusable mugs with a $0.25 discount, promote on-site dining with reusable cutlery and plates, and offer the Eco-Box program—a reusable container share program at the Cove and Mystic Market.
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Reusable Water Bottles: With 89 water refill locations and an outdoor refill station (May-Oct), we promote reusable water bottles through a Google embedded map locater.
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Evaluation of Packaging Materials: We continuously assess packaging materials to increase the use of paper and plant fiber, ensuring compostable packaging is accepted by waste service providers. We aim to choose white, dye-free to-go coffee cups for a reduced environmental impact.
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Recyclable Plastics: We are shifting procurement practices to prioritize easily recyclable plastics (e.g., PET #1, HDPE #2, PP #5) by default.
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Eliminating PVC Film Wrap: By July 1, 2028, we will eliminate all Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) film wrap in alignment with BC legislation.