Students lead the way in food packaging recycling initiative

An educational programme at the University of Reading is helping students make more informed decisions about disposing of food packaging on campus, according to new research.

The five-month programme, which is funded by the EU via the EIT Food initiative, engaged over 100 students in sustainability activities, has shown promising results in improving understanding of correct waste disposal practices. Approximately 100 students completed all programme activities, with participants reporting significant improvements in their knowledge of campus recycling systems. EIT Food is supported by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), a body of the European Union.

Dr Stella Lignou, who led the research, said: "Our findings suggest that targeted education can make a real difference in how students approach recycling on campus. The programme has given participants a much clearer understanding of how to dispose of different types of packaging using the university's existing facilities."

The initiative involved close collaboration with the University's Sustainability Services team to ensure students received accurate, campus-specific information about available recycling facilities.

Dr Lignou said: "While this was an initial pilot programme, the positive response from students suggests there could be value in making this a regular feature of campus life. Students who participated have demonstrated a genuine interest in improving their recycling habits."

The research team is now exploring opportunities to expand the programme to reach more students and staff members, which would allow for a more comprehensive assessment of its impact on campus-wide recycling rates.

For more information about sustainability initiatives at the University of Reading, visit our website: Sustainability

About EIT Food 

EIT Food is the world’s largest and most dynamic food innovation community. We accelerate innovation to build a future-fit food system that produces healthy and sustainable food for all.  

Supported by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), a body of the European Union, we invest in projects, organisations and individuals that share our goals for a healthy and sustainable food system. We unlock innovation potential in businesses and universities and create and scale agrifood startups to bring new technologies and products to market. We equip entrepreneurs and professionals with the skills needed to transform the food system and put consumers at the heart of our work, helping build trust by reconnecting them to the origins of their food. 

We are one of nine innovation communities established by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), an independent EU body set up in 2008 to drive innovation and entrepreneurship across Europe.  

Find out more at www.eitfood.eu or follow us via social media: LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram.