Zero Waste Action Plan: Towards a Circular Economy | UBC Campus & Community Planning

To meet the target’s of UBC’s Climate Action Plan 2030, UBC is prioritizing emission reductions from waste and expanding opportunities for circular economy, which include establishing a sustainable procurement process and reuse programs.

Since 2019, we've seen a 13% reduction in operational waste disposal.

Download the Zero Waste Action Plan

What is a circular economy?

In a traditional linear economy, resources are extracted then processed into a product. They are then consumed and discarded as waste. A circular economy approach focuses on the reuse and recycling of products to keep them in use for as long as possible. By applying a circular economy lens, we focus on waste reduction as opposed to just diverting waste from the landfill.

Highlights of Zero Waste Action Plan

Image	Develop a purchasing strategy and program that could require UBC vendors to meet sustainability criteria and packaging requirements.
Image	Rebuild UBC’s decommissioned composting facility with one that supports a broader range of acceptable materials including food, compostable food packaging, and green waste.
Image	Reduce waste generated by the campus community moving in and out at UBC residences by expanding reuse processes and programming to all applicable residences. One example is to provide low-cost reused items to incoming residents.
Image	Continue to roll out the Zero Waste Food Ware Strategy by supporting the transition to reusable food ware and drinkware at food outlets across campus.
Image	Expand reuse of furniture, electronics, research laboratory equipment and other items and materials.