Single use reduction

BC government banner to promote the reduction of single use plastic

Reusable opportunities on campus

Eco-Box Program: 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. On-campus residents receive a free Eco-Card as part of their welcome package, while others can join for a small $5 investment, making sustainable dining easy and accessible.
Reusables Beverage Cup Pilot: Launched during student orientation week, the Reusables Beverage Cup Pilot program allows customers at Port and Boardwalk cafes to opt for reusable stainless-steel travel mugs. Similar to a library system, participants sign up for a free Reuser ID—a digital QR code on their phone that enables them to borrow a mug for their beverage. By downloading the Reusables app, users can receive reminders to return their cups, view return locations, and track both their personal and UVic’s collective environmental impact through the program.
Beverage Cups and Discounts: Customers can choose reusable options at the Cove Dining Facility, where glasses, coffee cups, and reusable soft drink cups are available. Additionally, visitors to any campus food outlet receive a $0.25 discount on their drink when they bring their own mug.
Water Refilling Stations: Water refilling stations are located across campus, supporting UVic’s commitment to sustainability by encouraging reusable water bottles.

BC single-use and plastic-ware prevention regulation

As of December 20, 2023, our campus adheres to 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 , 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:

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.
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.
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.
Recyclable Plastics: We are shifting procurement practices to prioritize easily recyclable plastics (e.g., PET #1, HDPE #2, PP #5) by default.
Eliminating PVC Film Wrap: By July 1, 2028, we will eliminate all Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) film wrap in alignment with BC legislation.