USEFULL launches buyback program at universities and colleges, replacing ineffective plastic reuse systems
USEFULL, a plastic-free takeout provider for higher education, has announced the launch of its Plastic Buyback Program, aiming to help colleges and universities move away from plastic-based reused systems with its tech-enabled alternative.
USEFULL says it will work with campuses to implement a reuse system based on durable, stainless steel containers that does not use any plastic and uses campus ID or mobile credentials to checkout and track in real-time.
While many institutions use reusable plastic containers for takeout dining in a bid to reduce waste, USEFULL says high loss rates, ongoing replacement costs and rising concerns about microplastic exposure make these unsustainable.
USEFULL says it will purchase any remaining plastic containers at an institution, helping recover sunk costs on inefficient solutions, and help redirect budget to its new solution. Legacy containers will be processed by certified providers to reduce any environmental harm.
The new system will use campus IDs or mobile credentials to checkout, track in real-time and provide environmental reporting and 24/7 user support. USEFULL works with campus card providers including Transact and CBORD to provide a seamless user experience and allow campuses to track the scheme’s impact across waste, water and emissions.
USEFULL says the scheme builds on its progress with colleges and universities across the UK. at UNC Wilmington, which previously had a plastic-based system with a return rate of just 4 percent, it has managed to achieve a return rate of more than 99 percent.
“We created the Buyback Program to remove the final barrier for schools that want to improve their approach to reuse but feel stuck with plastic,” explains Alison Cove, Founder and CEO at USEFULL. “This is about more than offloading and recycling outdated plastic containers. Instead, it’s about giving colleges an opportunity to revisit their reusable programs in light of cost, health, and environmental concerns, and to launch a safe, responsible, and effective system.”
Made from stainless steel with silicone lids, USEFUL says its system is more durable and better for the environment than alternatives.
