UQ Unwrapped was a sustainability initiative to reduce UQ's plastic footprint.
To achieve this, we engaged directly with UQ food outlets, events, markets and catering providers, to switch from single-use plastics to better alternatives. We also encouraged UQ students, staff and visitors to take up a plastic-free lifestyle.
Our target was the reduction of single-use, disposable plastic items, which represent the most problematic and prolific sources of the litter stream. These items include coffee cups/lids, takeaway containers, foodware (plastic cutlery, cups plates) plastic straws, plastic bags, single use water bottles, and balloons.
UQ Unwrapped was been adapted from The Boomerang Alliance's Communities Taking Control campaign resources.
Joining the campaign
UQ retailers, events, and markets were invited to join the plastic-free movement, as we helped them work towards eliminating their single-use plastic items and replacing them with identified reusable or compostable alternatives.
We developed resources to assist, including a retailer’s guide, information on sourcing alternative products, certificates and display signs, as well as creating a system of promotional benefits to reward achievements.
Sustainable events
The Sustainable Events Guide was developed to help event organisers run their events more sustainably. It features helpful resources for all event types, from small indoor meetings to a large outdoor occasions.
Are you are planning to have food trucks at your event? The mobile vendor guide has been developed to assist both event organiser and mobile food vendors eliminate single use plastic items at UQ events.
Earn recognition for your sustainability efforts by applying for Sustainable Events Certification. If you’ve successfully completed all checklist actions, you’ll be awarded the UQ Unwrapped Sustainable Event Certification logo, which you can proudly display on all promotional items for your event. Further information can be found within the guide.
