Event Waste
The University is committed to minimising resource use, reducing avoidable single‑use plastics and improving recycling performance.
Design your event to minimise materials, enable easy sorting, and communicate clearly.
Plastic Free and Purchasing
- Support PlasticFreeGM and Plastic Free UoS commitments by eliminating single‑use items; use reusable crockery/cutlery/glasses and avoid individually packaged goods.
- Select durable, energy‑efficient products that are recyclable at end‑of‑life; order items together in one delivery where possible; use electronic collaboration tools as an alternative to flipcharts (e.g., Mural, Padlet).
- For any clothing, choose sustainable materials used in manufacture and reuse options such as promoting sustainable, pre-loved or borrowed outfits in celebrations.
- For decorations avoid balloons and plastic decorations.
- Choose reusable or recyclable decorations, without dates so any surplus could be used in the future.
Bins and Recycling
- Provide clearly labelled bins—at minimum: paper/card, mixed recycling for cans and plastics, and food—placed in visible, convenient locations.
- Plan bin locations to reduce contamination
- Announce recycling guidance at the start of the event; include a simple ‘Bin it Right’ message on slides/signage.