Impact Measurement

Styrofoam Ban

University Centers has prohibited the distribution of polystyrene foam (Styrofoam) in any of its restaurants since 2011.

Eliminating Single-use Plastic

• Recyclable and/or compostable packaging (including straws and utensils) are preferred for all student union retailers

• Student union restaurants must adopt an “ask first” policy for single use items such as straws and bags

• Most University Centers retail locations no longer sell single-use plastic water bottles with a goal of all location be single-use plastic water bottle free by 2025

Price Center Sustainable Restroom Features

The majority of the 15 restrooms in Price Centers have these features.

Eco-Friendly Features:

🌞 Solar-Powered Faucets: Harnessing the sun, no batteries needed.

🌱 Eco-Clean: Sparkling clean, with 100% non-toxic agents.

💧 Low Flow, High Efficiency: Conserving water with every wash, flush, and rinse.

🔄 Composting Paper Towels: Turning towels into tomorrow's soil.

💡 LED Illumination: Brightening our space with energy-saving light.

Thank you for joining us in conserving our planet's precious resources.

The following offices have been Green Office Certified by UC San Diego Sustainability:

• Price Center West Level 3 Offices

• Price Center East, Level 4 Offices

• The Zone

• Student Affairs Office[not sure this one needs to be included as it’s not a building we manage]

University Centers has long prioritized reducing waste generation to minimize environmental impact. Serving millions of patrons each year, we have the opportunity to significantly influence the amount of trash, recycling, and compost that UC San Diego generates and properly sorts. Addressing waste management is no simple feat. We have launched pilot programs, collected extensive data, and consulted with neighboring universities and organizations to gather insights and best practices.

Additionally, we have conducted our own in-house waste sorts, providing us with direct and valuable understanding of the challenges we face. Diagnosing the issues is straightforward, but implementing effective solutions is complex and multifaceted. We are tackling these challenges head-on and are committed to making continuous improvements.

Below, you will find information about our most recent initiatives and the steps we are taking to address these critical issues. Read on to discover how we are actively working to enhance our waste management practices.

University Center Waste Audit Series (launched in 2023)

Background

• University Centers has been a leader in implementing significant sustainability measures focused on waste diversion strategies, such as composting and recycling.
• Dedicated to environmentalism, the center has launched various initiatives to reduce waste and promote sustainable practices within the community, including the following.

Pilot Post-Consumer Composting Program

• Launched a pilot program involving a tenant to guide community members on proper composting practices
• Despite guidance, engagement in composting practices remained low, indicating the need for more effective strategies to change disposal behaviors

Waste Audits Mission

• To spearhead sustainable waste management practices through innovative strategies and community engagement, aiming to significantly increase waste diversion rates and contribute to environmental sustainability

check out the complete slide deck at the link below and email ucensustain@ucsd.edu with any questions!