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Single-Use Plastics Policy

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UC San Diego is committed to eliminating single-use plastic items by 2030, in alignment with UC systemwide goals and California's Zero Waste initiatives. 

 Single-Use Plastics Policy

Why This Matters

Single-use plastics contribute significantly to environmental degradation and marine pollution. UC’s policy takes bold steps to reduce waste and support a circular economy.

UC-Wide Policy Action

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:

Plastic Bags

  • The distribution of plastic bags is prohibited in all retail and foodservice establishments in campus facilities or located on University owned land.

Dine-in & To-Go Foodware

  • 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.
  • Provide reusable foodware items for food consumed onsite at dine-in facilities and to-go facilities no later than July 1, 2024.

Plastic Beverage Bottles

  • Phase out the procurement, sale and distribution of single-use plastic beverage bottles. Non-plastic alternatives will be locally recyclable or compostable.
    • Foodservice facilities will provide alternatives no later than January 1, 2024.
    • Locations are encouraged to prioritize the installation of water refill stations to support the transition from single-use plastics to reusables.

Vendor Contracts

  • UC will consider plastic elimination when negotiating or renewing supplier contracts, including vending and grab-and-go items.

    • Preference is given to compostable/recyclable packaging for prepackaged foods.

Elimination of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)


According to the policy, UC prohibits the sale, procurement, or distribution of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) (commonly known as Styrofoam), including:

  • Food containers
  • Packing peanuts and foam packaging

Exception: Only allowed for laboratory or medical applications where no alternative exists.

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