Goal 14:
Life Below Water
Action Plan to Reducing Plastic Waste
The University of Newcastle has a clear action plan and measurable targets to reduce plastic waste as part of our broader Environmental Sustainability Plan (ESP).
As outlined in the Environmental Sustainability Plan 2019–2025, the University set a target to recycle 70% of total waste by 2021 (see p.14). While the 70% target served as an early milestone, the action plan continues beyond 2021 with ongoing and expanding efforts to reduce single-use plastics and divert waste from landfill.
Ongoing Plastic Waste Reduction Initiatives:
- Simply Cups Program
The University participates in the Simply Cups program to collect and recycle disposable coffee cups — a major contributor to single-use plastic and landfill waste. Special bins are provided across campus to enable proper separation and recovery. - Bags to Benches
Through the Bags to Benches initiative, soft plastics collected on campus are recycled and turned into durable bench seating. This not only reduces plastic waste but also reinvests materials back into useful campus infrastructure. - Sustainable Procurement and Packaging Policies
The University's procurement policy encourages purchasing practices that minimise packaging waste, including the avoidance of unnecessary single-use plastics in catering, retail, and supply chains.
Future Directions (Post-2024)
In 2024 and beyond, the University continues to integrate circular economy principles into waste management, including:
- Expanding access to recycling stations and waste sorting infrastructure,
- Collaborating with industry partners on innovative waste recovery solutions, and
- Supporting student-led initiatives that tackle plastic pollution and promote sustainable consumption on campus.
These actions reflect the University's commitment to environmental leadership and reducing the ecological footprint of campus operations.
A University waste audit found that coffee cups account for 3% of general waste and 2% of recycling. The best and most sustainable option for your daily caffeine dose is to bring your own cup!
Staff can drop their soft plastic rubbish at collection points at Callaghan, located within Student Accommodation Precinct, Auchmuty and Huxley libraries as well as the NUSA and Services Buildings.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.