UCL has committed to creating a plastic-free campus and it will give its 42,000 students the opportunity to study and be involved with sustainability.
The plastic-free campus will be achieved by banning straws, plastic bottles and disposable cutlery. By 2030 UCL is aiming to introduce 100% vegetarian catering for events and hospitality.
All UCL buildings are aiming to be net zero carbon by 2024 and for the entire institution to be net zero carbon by 2030. Within the last ten years UCL has seen a 27% reduction in carbon emissions after constructing sustainable buildings and becoming a zero-to-landfill university.
Professor Michael Arthur, UCL’s provost, said: “As climate change, resource depletion and biodiversity loss becomes critical, the world faces an uncertain future. Universities have a responsibility to lead change for environmental and social sustainability.
“By being proactive, we can mobilise our staff and students and inspire the next generation of young adults to change the world. By doing so, we will play our part in catalysing the broad changes we need to create a sustainable future for people and planet.”
The university has risen 71 places in the People and Planet University League in the last five years. UCL is also aiming to reduce waste per person by 20% within the next five years.