Single-Use Plastics Policy

To support systemwide sustainability efforts, in December 2018 the CSU Single-Use Plastics Policy was adopted, which calls upon campuses to move away from plastics in general and phase out the use of specified single-use plastic waste products by certain dates. These products include plastic straws, plastic bags, polystyrene food packaging and plastic water bottles.  

Campus responsibilities outlined in the policy:

  • Eliminate single-use plastic water bottles by January 1, 2023 or upon contract renewal if existing contract terms prohibit. A 25% reduction in single-use plastic water bottles purchased and supplied will be achieved annually.

  • Eliminate plastic straws no later than January 1, 2019

  • Eliminate single-use plastic carryout bags no later than January 1, 2019

  • Eliminate single-use polystyrene (e.g. STYROFOAM™) food service items no later than January 1, 2021

  • Replace single-use plastic items with materials that are reusable, locally compostable and/or recyclable.

Here at CSULB, we have made strides towards our goal to become a zero waste campus by phasing out most of these items already but we need everyone’s support and participation to reach this goal and fully comply with this policy.

Have questions about compliance with this policy? Check out the FAQs below and our Alternatives Guide for acceptable options for replacing many common single-use plastics. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Not explicitly. The policy does not specifically mention sports drinks, juices, sodas or other types of beverages packaged in plastic bottles. However, the policy does encourage campuses to transition away from single-use plastics of all types. 

Boxed water is discouraged because the packaging is typically a mix of paper, metal, and both petroleum based and plant based plastics. Therefore, it cannot be readily recycled. The campus recommends aluminum water bottles when single serving water bottles are necessary.

Teams are strongly encouraged to take steps to use alternatives to single-use plastic water bottles at all times. However, exceptions may be granted when such alternatives are not available at away games.

Employees are strongly encouraged to take steps to use alternatives to single-use plastics at all times. However, exceptions may be granted when such alternatives are not available or when circumstances are beyond the employee’s ability to control, such as the types of foods/beverages served at a conference or off-site meeting.  

Yes. The Grand, Naples Ribs, and other approved caterers have been advised of the policy and the requirement that they comply by offering reusable service ware when possible, and refraining from providing plastic water bottles.

When organizing any type of event, all efforts should be made to minimize the use of single-use plastics to the greatest extent possible. However, an exemption to the policy may be granted if the options at your off-site venue are restricted and alternatives unavailable. Contact the Procurement Office to request an exemption in this circumstance.

Please review the Single-Use Plastics Alternatives Matrix for recommendations and additional guidance.

You may place and order through the campus convenience stores by contacting Renato Borromeo (Rene.Borromeo@csulb.edu) or Kelly Walsh (Kelly.Walsh@csulb.edu). Or you may contact Kristin Bonetati (Kristin.Bonetati@csulb.edu) to place an order through the Bookstore.

No. Although the 5 gallon water bottles are made of plastic, they are collected and refilled by the vendor. Therefore, they are not considered single-use.

No, this type of water is exempt from the policy as it is necessary to maintain equipment and non-plastic packaging alternatives are not available at this time. 

You may send general inquiries about the policy to the Office of Sustainability at sustainability@csulb.edu. If you have a question purchasing-related question, please contact the Procurement Services office at 562-985-4296 or purchasing@csulb.edu.