Sustainable Development Policies

12.2.5

Minimisation of Plastic Use

1. Purpose

The purpose of this Policy is to minimize and ultimately eliminate the use of single-use plastics across all University of Thessaly campuses, operations, and activities. It promotes sustainable procurement, waste reduction, and awareness in accordance with Greek Law 4736/2020 (Transposition of EU Directive 2019/904) and the EU Strategy for Plastics in a Circular Economy.

2. Scope

This Policy applies to all University units, including administrative offices, classrooms, laboratories, cafeterias, residences, and events. It covers plastic materials, packaging, utensils, bottles, and other disposable products used in University operations or by third-party contractors.

3. Legal and Institutional Context

This Policy aligns with: Law 4736/2020 (ΦΕΚ Α’ 200/20.10.2020) — Prevention and Reduction of the Impact of Certain Plastic Products on the Environment; Law 4819/2021 (Circular Economy and Waste Management); EU Directive 2019/904 (Single-Use Plastics Directive); EU Circular Economy Action Plan (2020); and UN SDGs 12, 13, and 14.

4. Policy Statement

1. The University of Thessaly commits to progressively eliminating single-use plastic items and replacing them with sustainable alternatives.
   2. Procurement of single-use plastic cups, straws, cutlery, and plates shall be prohibited, in line with Law 4736/2020.
   3. Reusable, compostable, or biodegradable materials shall be prioritized in all University purchasing and catering operations.
   4. Bottled water shall be phased out and replaced with filtered water dispensers in all buildings.
   5. Plastic packaging in University events, seminars, and conferences shall be eliminated; recyclable or reusable containers must be used.
   6. All University cafeterias and catering contractors must comply with this Policy as part of their service agreements.
   7. Laboratories and technical units shall minimize plastic consumables where safe alternatives exist.
   8. Awareness campaigns shall be implemented annually to educate students and staff on reducing plastic consumption.
   9. Plastic waste collection points and recycling bins shall be available on all campuses.
   10. Progress shall be reported annually in the University’s Sustainability Report, including data on plastic reduction and substitution.

5. Implementation and Responsibilities

– The  Vice Rector of Finance and Administrative Affairs oversees implementation.
– The Procurement Office ensures compliance with plastic-free purchasing criteria.
– The Environmental Health and Safety Office manages monitoring, awareness, and reporting.
– The Catering Services and Facilities Management enforce elimination of single-use plastics in daily operations.

6. Monitoring and Review

Monitoring will include tracking procurement data, waste audits, and supplier compliance. Results will be integrated into the Annual Sustainability Report. This Policy will be reviewed every three (3) years or sooner if required by legislative or environmental updates.

7. Related Documents / References

Law 4736/2020 (ΦΕΚ Α’ 200/2020);
Law 4819/2021;
EU Directive 2019/904;
EU Circular Economy Action Plan (2020);
UN SDGs 12, 13, 14.