In response to growing environmental concerns and strong student advocacy, the University adopted a systemwide Sustainable Practices policy (see pg. 15) in 2020 to eliminate non-essential single-use plastics by July 1, 2024.

According to the United Nations, half of all plastics produced are intended for single use, and less than 10% are ever recycled. These items, often used for just a few minutes, can persist in the environment for hundreds of years—polluting waterways, harming wildlife, and contributing to climate change. As student leaders across the UC system voiced through petitions, resolutions, and clean-up campaigns, the need for bold action was clear.

The University of California has adopted a to eliminate non-essential single-use plastics guided by the following commitments:

  • Plastic Bag Ban: The distribution of plastic bags is prohibited in all retail and foodservice locations within campus facilities or on University-owned land.
  • Foodware Accessories: Single-use plastic accessories—such as utensils, straws, stirrers, and cup lids—must be replaced with reusable or locally compostable alternatives, and provided only upon request.
  • Disposable Foodware: Single-use plastic items like cups, plates, bowls, and clamshells must be replaced with reusable or locally compostable alternatives at to-go foodservice facilities.
  • Dine-In Standards: Foodservice operations must provide reusable foodware for any food consumed onsite, including at dine-in and hybrid dine-in/to-go facilities.
  • Beverage Bottles: The distribution of single-use plastic beverage bottles is prohibited. Foodservice facilities must offer non-plastic alternatives—such as aluminum, glass, or compostable materials—that are locally recyclable or compostable, with limited exceptions for products without viable alternatives.

Purchasing sustainably sourced paper supports responsible forest management, helps protect ecosystems and wildlife, and ensures that forests can continue to provide resources for future generations. Choosing products certified by trusted third parties promotes ethical sourcing and reduces the environmental impact of paper production. Look for products that are Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Recycled, Processed Chlorine Free (PCF), or Meets Green Seal Standard GS-07. In alignment with university policy, paper must contain at least 30% post-consumer recycled content.

Choosing ENERGY STAR® and EPEAT-certified products helps reduce energy use, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and minimize environmental impact throughout a product’s life cycle. These certifications ensure that electronics and appliances meet rigorous standards for efficiency and sustainability—supporting healthier environments and long-term cost savings. Per the UC Sustainable Procurement Guidelines (see pg. 9), appliances must be ENERGY STAR® certified and electronics must be EPEAT certified Bronze level or higher. 

Appliances

ENERGY STAR® is a certification for products that meet energy efficiency criteria set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It helps reduce energy consumption, lower utility costs, and minimize environmental impact without sacrificing performance. Products like freezers, coffee machines, network servers, televisions, HVAC systems, lighting fixtures, computers, vehicle charging stations, and more. Find certified ENERGY STAR® products on this Product Finder webpage.

Electronics

EPEAT is an ecolabel for electronics that meet strict criteria designed to reduce environmental impact throughout a product’s life cycle. It is administered by the Global Electronics Council (GEC). Products like computers, monitors, printers, PV modules and inverters, servers, etc. Find certified EPEAT products on this Product Registry webpage.

Many everyday furniture items contain harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde, flame retardants, phthalates, perfluorinated compounds (PFCs), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These chemicals can negatively impact indoor air quality and pose long-term health risks. Per the UC Sustainable Procurement Guidelines (see pg. 21) furniture must be free of the five chemicals of concern to ensure a safer, healthier environment for all students, faculty, and staff. Look for or ask furniture supplier representatives to source products that meet Credit 7.4.4 - Targeted Chemical Elimination of the ANSI/BIFMA Level® Furniture Sustainability Standard, GreenScreen certified Bronze or higher, or have Received the Green Health Approved Seal for Furniture. See this Sustainable Purchasing Guide for additional information.

Purchasing sustainable cleaning and janitorial supplies helps reduce exposure to harmful chemicals, improves indoor air quality, and minimizes environmental impact. These products are designed to be safer for both people and the planet, supporting healthier workplaces and more responsible resource use.

Cleaning Supplies

Products like disinfectants, laundry detergent, dishwashing detergent, hand soap, general purpose cleaners, carpet cleaner. Look for products with the EPA Safer Choice, Green Seal and/or UL EcoLogo label.

Janitorial Supplies

Products like toilet tissue, tissue paper, paper towels, hand towels, and napkins. Look for products with the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), GreenSeal, and/or UL EcoLogo label.