Disposable Items Policy

Executive Summary

Navoi State University (NSU) recognizes the environmental impacts associated with excessive use of disposable items and is committed to significantly minimizing such use across all university operations. This Disposable Items Use Minimisation Policy aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and serves as a framework to reduce waste generation and promote a culture of reuse.

This policy ensures that cafeteria, office, and event operations follow environmentally responsible practices through reduction, replacement, and recycling initiatives. It promotes collaboration, innovation, and behavioral change among students, staff, and vendors.

Key objectives include:
– Phasing out disposable cups, plates, and cutlery across campus facilities.
– Encouraging use of reusable alternatives for daily operations and events.
– Promoting digital communication and reducing paper-based disposables.
– Engaging the community through education and zero-waste campaigns.

1. Introduction

Disposable items contribute significantly to global waste and pollution. NSU, as a leading educational institution, has the responsibility to model sustainable consumption behaviors by reducing dependency on single-use items and shifting toward reusable solutions.

2. Policy Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish a structured approach for reducing the use of disposable items on campus, supporting NSU’s Green Campus Initiative, and fostering sustainable practices across all departments.

3. Policy Scope

This policy applies to all NSU offices, classrooms, dormitories, cafeterias, event organizers, and external vendors operating within university premises. It focuses specifically on cafeteria, office, and event disposables such as cups, plates, straws, napkins, and packaging.

4. Guiding Principles

• Reduction – Eliminate unnecessary disposable items.

  • Reuse – Prioritize reusable and durable alternatives.

  • Replacement – Transition to compostable, biodegradable, or recyclable options.

  • Responsibility – Promote shared accountability for sustainable practices.

  • Innovation – Encourage creative and practical solutions to reduce waste.

5. Strategic Objectives

1. Eliminate all single-use cups and plates in cafeterias by 2026.

   2. Replace disposable packaging with biodegradable materials.

   3. Introduce event rental systems for reusable dishes and utensils.

   4. Implement digital systems for internal communication and form submission.

   5. Reduce total disposable waste by 70% by 2030.

6. Implementation Framework

The NSU Sustainability Committee, Facilities Department, and Procurement Office will jointly oversee implementation. Each department must assign a Waste Minimisation Officer to monitor progress and ensure compliance.

6.1 Governance Structure

7. Use Minimisation Approach and Examples

8. Monitoring and KPI Table

Performance indicators will guide monitoring and reporting of progress in disposable item reduction.

9. Financial Considerations

Funding will be provided under the NSU Sustainability Budget to support reusable material procurement, digital tools, and awareness activities. Cost savings will be achieved through reduced waste collection expenses.

10. Training and Awareness

Workshops and campaigns will inform students, staff, and vendors about the benefits of reusables and sustainable procurement. Awareness posters will be displayed in cafeterias, offices, and event halls.

11. Review and Continuous Improvement

The policy will be reviewed annually by the Sustainability Committee. Improvements will be based on feedback, technology advancements, and audit results.

12. References and Alignment

Aligned with SDG 12 (Targets 12.2–12.5), Uzbekistan’s Environmental Protection Law (2021), NSU Sustainability Strategy 2025–2030, and UI GreenMetric and QS Sustainability frameworks.

Conclusion

Navoi State University reaffirms its commitment to eliminating unnecessary disposable items and transitioning to reusable alternatives. This policy promotes environmental responsibility, cost savings, and a long-term culture of sustainability aligned with SDG 12. Annex: Disposable Reduction Action Plan (2025–2030)