Compostable Packaging

The University has mandated that all food packaging provided by campus retailers and used at University events on campus must be 100% compostable.

100% compostable packaging means it has been certified to break down completely into non-toxic components within 180 days in a commercial composting facility, like Jeffries, our green waste service provider. Our compostable packaging is a mixture of cardboard, cornstarch and bioplastic.

Our transition to compostable packaging demonstrates the University’s commitment to creating a more sustainable campus and helps ensure the University is compliant with SA packaging legislation.

Sustainable events

When planning your next on-campus event, please choose plastic-free alternatives.

Plastic-free alternatives

Single-use plastic item	Plastic-free alternatives
Plastic straws	Paper or rye straws
Water bottles	Jug of water and glassware Jug of water and compostable cups Water refill station with glassware or compostable cups BYO water bottle and refill on campus
Plastic plates, bowls and cutlery	Bamboo, wood or compostable plates, bowls & cutlery Silverware Crockery
Plastic bags	Paper or fabric bags
Balloons, tinsel and plastic glitter	Paper lanterns, bunting and garlands Compostable plant-based confetti or petals
Promotional giveaways	Seed sticks or paper Stationery made from recycled content Reusable drink bottles, coffee cups or cutlery

Sustainable event tips

Australian Standards for Compostables — Look for Australian Standards when ordering packaging for your event.

Ensure there is an organic recycling bin (plus signage) and other necessary bins nearby.
Use an online registration system to predict attendance and cater accordingly.
Supply washable, reusable crockery and cutlery, and cotton tablecloths where practical.
Book local catering companies that prepare fresh, seasonal produce.
Provide a menu that is 50% vegetarian and/or vegan.
Reuse lanyards, badges, wristbands, signs and display materials where practical.
Give attendees information about teleconferencing, public transport and bike parking options to reduce travel miles.

Did you know?

Takeaway food and beverage packaging makes up more than a third of all litter on Australian beaches.
Half of all plastic produced is designed to be used only once - then thrown away.
At least 8 million tonnes of plastics leak into oceans each year, equal to dumping a garbage truck in the ocean every minute.
Plastics never break down, they just get smaller and turn into plastic dust which can leach into our water ways and food chain.
Plastic litter is responsible for killing hundreds of thousands of sea creatures each year.

Learn more at the Replace the Waste website .