UC San Diego is committed to eliminating single-use plastic items by 2030. 

Single-Use Plastics Policy

The University of California is committed to the reduction and elimination of single-use items in line with the State of California’s Zero Waste goals and in recognition of the severe environmental impact single-use products have globally. In recognition of this commitment, locations (including UC San Diego) will reduce single-use products by taking the following actions:

1. The distribution of plastic bags is prohibited in all retail and foodservice establishments in campus facilities or located on University owned land.
2. Replace disposable single-use plastic foodware accessory items in all foodservice facilities with reusables or locally compostable alternatives and provide only upon request no later than July 1, 2024.
3. Provide reusable foodware items for food consumed onsite at dine-in facilities and to-go facilities no later than July 1, 2024.
4. Replace single-use plastic foodware items with reusable or locally compostable alternatives at to-go facilities no later than July 1, 2024.
5. Phase out the procurement, sale and distribution of single-use plastic beverage bottles. Non-plastic alternatives will be locally recyclable or compostable.
   1. Foodservice facilities will provide alternatives no later than January 1, 2024.
   2. Locations are encouraged to prioritize the installation of water refill stations to support the transition from single-use plastics to reusables.
   3. Locations will consider eliminating single-use plastic beverage bottles when contracting with suppliers, or upon contract renewal and/or extension if current contract terms prohibit (e.g., vending machines, departmental purchases, etc.).
6. When selecting prepackaged, sealed food that is mass produced off premises and resold at University locations (e.g., grab-and-go items, such as chips, candy, prepackaged sandwiches, etc.), preference should be given in contract award and negotiations to suppliers that utilize locally compostable or locally recyclable packaging options.

Elimination of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)
According to the policy, UC prohibits the sale, procurement, or distribution of packaging foam, such as food containers and packaging material. The only exception to this ban is for the purchase of products utilized in laboratory or medical settings.

UC San Diego has banned styrofoam packaging since 2020 and is continuously working on programs to find substitutes for packaging lab and medical supplies.