Policy for reducing and phasing out single-use plastic products.
Plastic Use Minimization Policy (12.2.5)
Introduction:
Al-Ahliyya Amman University (AAU) has implemented a comprehensive and institution-wide Plastic Use Minimization Policy, officially published on the university’s sustainability platform, to eliminate single-use plastics and transition toward sustainable, environmentally responsible alternatives. The policy applies across all operational domains; including cafeterias, administrative offices, laboratories, student events, and campus activities; ensuring a systematic and measurable reduction in plastic consumption and plastic-related waste generation.
AAU’s approach is grounded in evidence-based environmental management. Regular waste audits, digital monitoring systems, and monthly consumption reports; managed by the Sustainability and International Ranking Center (SIRC); provide accurate data to track trends and guide decision-making. The policy mandates the gradual phasing-out of single-use plastic cups, bottles, bags, straws, and cutlery; prioritizing biodegradable, reusable, and recyclable alternatives through supplier selection criteria and contract specifications.
This policy works in full integration with the Plastic and Disposable Item Minimisation Policy, the Recycled Waste Management and Measurement Policy, and the Waste Generation and Recycling Measurement Procedure, forming a unified Circular Economy Framework that prevents waste generation at the source and enhances resource recovery across the campus.
AAU’s commitment extends beyond operational controls to include community-wide behavioral change. Targeted awareness campaigns, student-led initiatives, integration of sustainability concepts into academic activities, and collaboration with local suppliers reinforce a cultural shift toward responsible consumption. These actions directly advance SDG 12.5 (Substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling, and reuse) and make a documented contribution to SDG 14.1 (Reduce marine pollution from plastic waste); particularly through reducing plastic leakage into terrestrial and water environments.
By adopting science-based reduction measures and clear transition milestones, AAU is progressing toward a plastic-free campus by 2028, positioning itself as a national leader in sustainable consumption practices and environmentally responsible university governance.
Centers and Departments:
Activities:
Impact Evaluation & Development Plan
- Performance Evaluation
- AAU achieved a 60% cumulative reduction in single-use plastic consumption between 2022 and 2025, as reflected in the university’s Plastic Consumption Reduction KPI (95%, 98%, 98% for 2022/2023–2024/2025), verified through campus-wide audits.
- Full ban on plastic bottles and cutlery within university cafeterias since 2024.
- Sustainability dashboards track plastic usage metrics monthly via SIRC.
- Students and staff actively participate in awareness programs, promoting behavioral shifts toward reusable materials.
- Collaboration with suppliers resulted in 80% compliance with the Plastic and Disposable Item Minimization Policy.
- Development Actions
Action 1: Zero Plastic Campus by 2028, Complete phase-out of single-use plastic in all departments and student activities, to be Verified annually via Sustainability Report.
Action 2: Smart Plastic Reduction Tracking (2025 – 2028) Integrate sensors and QR- tracking for real-time measurement of waste streams, By System live by 2026.
Action 3: Sustainable Procurement Portal (2025 – 2028) Include mandatory eco-packaging compliance for all suppliers, Launch 2026; 100% inclusion 2027.
Action 4: Circular Packaging Research Fund (2025 – 2028), Support faculty projects on biodegradable and circular packaging materials, 5 research projects funded annually.
Action 5: Green Certification Program (2025 – 2028), Certify AAU Cafeterias and Offices as “Plastic-Free Facilities.”, 100% certification by 2028.
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Benchmarking & Best Practice
AAU benchmarks its policy against the University of Cambridge (UK), University of Melbourne (Australia), and KAUST (Saudi Arabia) all recognized for zero-plastic initiatives and circular-material use.
Adopted practices include:
* Life-cycle analysis (LCA) for packaging materials.
* Supplier sustainability audits.
* Behavioral incentive programs for waste minimization.
AAU aligns its framework with Jordan’s Green Economy Strategy and Waste Management Framework Law No. 16 (2020).Future Goal (2028):
Establish the AAU Plastic-Free and Sustainable Materials Observatory to monitor university- wide consumption and report national best practices.
Institutional Integration Summary
The Sustainability and International Ranking Center (SIRC) coordinates plastic-reduction reporting, working with the Facilities Department, General Supplies and Services Department, and CIE.
Each unit submits quarterly performance data that are reviewed and verified for inclusion in the Annual Sustainability Report and SDG 12 Dashboard.
All procurement and waste decisions are guided by the Plastic and Disposable Item Minimization Policy, ensuring transparency, accountability, and measurable progress.
This integrated system guarantees compliance with SDG 12.5, promoting a sustainable consumption model that minimizes environmental impact and fosters responsible behavior across the university community.
Through innovation, policy enforcement, and public awareness, AAU strengthens its contribution to SDG 12, while also supporting SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals); positioning the university as a regional leader in plastic-free transformation and environmental responsibility.
