The University hosts a single use plastic free conference

From 18-20 June the University hosted this year’s EAUC conference, welcoming delegates from across higher education and further education institutions to a completely single use plastic free event. Attendees coalesced in University Place to take part in a series of discussions, debates and workshops on the environmental, economic and socio-political challenges faced by the sector and in the wider-community.

Our dedicated catering team did a fantastic job in navigating several challenges to achieve our single use plastic free commitment for the conference. Over the three days attendees were kept hydrated at various water-refill points, whilst the exhibitors, ecoffeecup, kindly hosted a coffee cup re-use system. Delegates were also treated to a fully vegan and locally-sourced selection of food, with all sandwich packaging and delivered platters made from fully-compostable and biodegradable plant-based materials.

Several single use plastic break-off workshops at the conference provided delegates the opportunity to discuss an issue at the forefront of public concern, with knowledge sharing between institutions proving to be extremely productive and positive.

The conference was a great success and showcased the excellent efforts of the catering team to meet the University’s commitment to eliminate avoidable single use plastics by 2022.