In a concrete commitment to environmental sustainability and the reduction of single-use plastic waste, the Justicia Canteen at the Faculty of Law, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FH UGM) has adopted a policy of using reusable plates, cups, and cutlery. All items are thoroughly washed and sanitized after each use — keeping them hygienic while eliminating the need for disposable packaging. This straightforward step is part of FH UGM's broader effort to create a greener and more sustainable campus.
The policy does more than reduce the volume of plastic waste from single-use packaging and tableware — it also cultivates a sense of environmental responsibility among the academic community. By choosing reusable tableware, the Justicia Canteen plays a direct role in reducing plastic pollution, one of the world's most pressing environmental challenges.
The initiative supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), by promoting resource efficiency and waste reduction; SDG 13 (Climate Action), by reducing the carbon footprint associated with single-use plastics; and SDG 14 (Life Below Water), since reducing single-use plastic consumption directly helps prevent ocean pollution and protects marine ecosystems. The initiative also aligns with the FH UGM Green Campus Initiative, which promotes environmentally responsible practices throughout campus activities.
Through the adoption of reusable tableware, FH UGM demonstrates that meaningful change can begin with small, everyday choices. It is hoped that this policy will inspire the entire academic community to maintain cleanliness, reduce waste, and actively contribute to building a learning environment that is clean, healthy, and sustainable.
