University of California, Santa Barbara
IN-32: Single-Use Plastic Ban

UC Santa Barbara, along with the other UC Campuses have passed a ban on select single-use plastics. The policy is as follows:

The University is committed to the reduction and elimination of single-use items
in line with the University’s and 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 will reduce single-use
products by taking the following actions:
a. Eliminate plastic bags in all retail and foodservice establishments in campus
facilities or located on university owned land no later than January 1, 2021
b. 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, 2021
c. Provide reusable foodware items for food consumed onsite at dine-in facilities
and to-go facilities no later than July 1, 2022.
d. Replace single-use plastic foodware items with reusable or locally
compostable alternatives at to-go facilities no later than July 1, 2022
e. Phase out the procurement, sale and distribution of single-use plastic
beverage bottles. Non-plastic alternatives shall be locally recyclable or
compostable.
- i. Foodservice facilities will provide alternatives no later than January 1,
2023.
- ii. Locations are encouraged to prioritize the installation of water refill
stations to support the transition from single-use plastics to reusables.
- iii. Locations will consider eliminating single-use plastic beverage bottles
when contracting with suppliers, or upon contract renewal and/or
extension if current contract terms prohibit (e.g., vending machines,
departmental purchases, etc.).
f. When selecting prepackaged, sealed food that is mass produced off premises
and resold at University locations (e.g., grab-and-go items, such as chips,
candy, prepackaged sandwiches, etc.), preference should be given in
contract award and negotiations to suppliers that utilize locally compostable
or locally recyclable packaging options.

This policy section (III.F.4.) also applies to third-party foodservice facilities that lease space or provide contracted services at UC locations. Locations will include these Policy provisions in lease language as new leases and contracts are
negotiated or existing leases are renewed and work to incorporate these
practices, as much as possible, within the timeframe of current leases. When
procuring catering services, where possible, select providers that can provide
alternatives to single-use plastics.