Minimization of disposable items use policy

Policy Statement

An-Najah National University is dedicated to reducing its environmental footprint by minimizing the use of disposable items and promoting sustainable practices across its operations. Recognizing the significant environmental impact of single-use products and waste, the university is committed to transitioning to reusable alternatives, digital governance, and effective recycling and waste reduction practices. This policy aims to integrate responsible consumption practices into all aspects of university life and operations.

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to:

• Minimize the use of disposable items across all university operations, including administrative processes, campus events, catering services, and research facilities.
• Promote digital governance to reduce reliance on paper-based processes and other disposable materials.
• Encourage the adoption of reusable and recyclable alternatives to minimize waste and support environmental sustainability.
• Foster a culture of sustainability through education, awareness, and continuous improvement in waste management practices.

Scope

This policy applies to all members of the university community, including students, faculty, staff, and visitors. It encompasses all areas where disposable items are used, including but not limited to:

• Administrative Processes: Reduction of paper use through digital documentation and electronic communication.
• Campus Events and Activities: Minimization of disposable items used during events, such as plates, cups, utensils, and promotional materials.
• Catering and Food Services: Promotion of reusable or biodegradable alternatives to disposable food containers, cutlery, and packaging.
• Laboratory and Research Facilities: Encouragement of sustainable practices in the use of laboratory disposables.

Responsibilities

• University Administration: Oversee the implementation of this policy, ensure compliance, and allocate resources for sustainability initiatives. The administration will provide support and guidance for departments to adopt sustainable practices.
• Departments and Units: Responsible for integrating disposable items minimization strategies into their operations. This includes purchasing environmentally preferable products, promoting reusable alternatives, and reporting on waste reduction efforts.
• Employees and Students: Must adhere to the policy by reducing disposable item use, participating in sustainability programs, and adopting reusable and recyclable alternatives in their daily activities.

Principles

• Reduction of Single-Use Items: The university is committed to reducing reliance on single-use items by promoting the use of durable, reusable, or biodegradable alternatives. This includes efforts to phase out single-use plastics and excessive packaging.
• Digital Governance: All departments are strongly encouraged to transition to digital processes to reduce the need for printed materials and other disposable resources. Digital documentation and communication should be the default practice.
• Reuse and Recycling: The university will promote and facilitate the reuse of materials and ensure that recycling facilities are accessible and utilized effectively across campus. Efforts will be made to increase recycling rates and reduce waste sent to landfills.
• Sustainable Procurement: Preference will be given to suppliers who provide environmentally friendly, reusable, or recyclable products. The procurement process will prioritize products with minimal packaging and sustainable materials.

Strategies for Minimizing Disposable Items

1. Procurement Guidelines
   • Adopt sustainable procurement practices that prioritize products with minimal packaging and those that are reusable, recyclable, or compostable.
   • Collaborate with suppliers to reduce excessive packaging and provide environmentally responsible materials.
2. Reusable Options
   • Install accessible water refill stations and provide reusable utensils, plates, and cups in campus dining facilities.
   • Promote the sale of reusable bags, containers, and other sustainable products at campus stores.
3. Elimination of Single-Use Plastics
   • Work towards eliminating single-use plastic items, such as straws, cutlery, and plastic bags, in collaboration with food service providers and vendors.
   • Implement policies to limit the use of single-use plastics at campus events and in university operations.
4. Packaging Reduction
   • Engage with vendors and suppliers to minimize excessive packaging for products and shipments. Ensure all incoming shipments adhere to guidelines that prioritize sustainable and minimal packaging.
5. Campus Events
   • Encourage event organizers to minimize disposable items by opting for electronic distribution of materials and using recyclable or compostable products when necessary.
   • Implement guidelines for campus events to reduce waste and promote sustainable practices.
6. Education and Awareness
   • Conduct regular awareness campaigns, workshops, and educational programs to inform the campus community about the environmental impact of disposable items and the benefits of reduction.
   • Use prominent signage and communication to remind the community to reduce disposable item usage and embrace sustainable practices.

Monitoring and Reporting

• Progress Measurement: The university will track and report 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.
• Departmental Reporting: Departments will be responsible for monitoring their disposable item use, reporting on waste reduction efforts, and transitioning to digital processes.

Implementation and Continuous Improvement

• Awareness and Training: Provide ongoing training and awareness programs to educate the university community about the importance of minimizing disposable items and adopting sustainable practices.
• Policy Review: Regularly review and update this policy to reflect new opportunities for reducing disposable items, enhancing sustainability, and incorporating feedback from the university community.

Compliance

• Ensure adherence to this policy across all university operations. Non-compliance will be addressed promptly, with corrective actions taken to prevent recurrence. Continuous non-compliance may result in further disciplinary actions.

Effective Date: December 18, 2023

Review Date: Jun 23, 2024