Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Daffodil International University

Policy on Reducing Single-Use Plastics at Daffodil International University

Created in 2024

This policy proposes a comprehensive strategy to minimize single-use plastics on the Daffodil International University (DIU) campus, promoting a more sustainable environment.

Policy Objectives

  • Reduce plastic waste generation on campus.

  • Encourage the adoption of reusable and biodegradable alternatives.

  • Promote responsible resource management.

Policy Applicability

This policy applies to all DIU students, employees, and campus vendors.

Policy Guidelines

Policy for DIU Employees & Students

  1. Avoid Single-Use Plastic Water Bottles: Instead, use a personal, reusable water bottle. DIU provides safe drinking water refill stations throughout the campus.

  2. Reduce Takeout Packaging: Consider dining in at restaurants or using a durable, reusable Tiffin box for takeout meals and snacks whenever possible. It's good for your health, saves money, and reduces waste.

  3. Choose Biodegradable Packaging: If takeout is necessary, opt for biodegradable packaging options made from materials like jute, paper, areca leaf, or bamboo.

  4. Go Paperless and Use Biodegradable Supplies: Whenever possible, use digital documents and assignments. For physical documents, choose biodegradable pens and paper files.

  5. Policy Enforcement: Failure to comply with this policy may result in a financial penalty of Tk 100, effective from October 15, 2024.

Policy for Vendors Inside DIU Campus

  1. Promote Reusable Serviceware: Encourage the use of durable plates, cups, and cutlery made from Melamine, Stainless Steel (SS), Mild Steel (MS), or food-grade plastic for dine-in and takeout services. This minimizes the need for single-use plastics.

  2. Choose Biodegradable Packaging: Opt for biodegradable packaging materials made from jute, paper, areca leaf, bamboo, sonali bags, tissue bags, or net bags whenever possible. This reduces dependence on single-use plastic packaging.

  3. Transparent Costing: For biodegradable packaging options, vendors can implement a reasonable additional charge to cover the higher material cost.

  4. Subsidy for Biodegradable Packaging: Vendors who choose not to charge customers for biodegradable packaging can apply for a 10% rental subsidy from the Office of the Registrar, DIU. However, these vendors must:

  • Implement biodegradable packaging services by October 15, 2024.

  • Maintain food and beverage prices without any increase related to packaging costs.

  1. Policy Compliance: Failure to comply with this policy, including the use of biodegradable packaging, will result in a financial penalty of Tk 1,000, effective from October 15, 2024.

Implementation and Monitoring

  • DIU Plastic Controlling Committee: This committee will oversee the implementation and monitor the effectiveness of this policy. It may include representatives from student bodies, faculty, administration, and vendors.

  • Educational Campaigns: The committee will conduct educational campaigns to raise awareness about the policy and the benefits of reducing plastic use.

  • Regular Audits and Inspections: The committee will conduct regular audits and inspections to ensure compliance with the policy.

Benefits

This policy will contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable campus environment by:

  • Reducing plastic waste generation

  • Encouraging responsible waste management practices

  • Promoting the adoption of eco-friendly alternatives

Conclusion

By implementing this policy, Daffodil International University demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental responsibility and paves the way for a more sustainable future.