Case Study: New College Oxford Returnable Eco Takeout Food Containers
In January 2024, New College Oxford, in partnership with FSG Returnables, implemented a sustainable initiative to reduce waste and promote environmentally-friendly practices on campus. Spearheaded by Brian Cole, Catering Officer at the college, the program introduced a Reusable Eco Takeout food container system designed to replace single-use disposables.
The Initiative
The containers are used when students wish to take food out of the college restaurant, whether for outdoor dining or to eat in their rooms while studying.
The containers (2 each) were issued to all Fresher students who are the main users of dining facilities in College. The boxes are available to existing students/staff to purchase at a cost of £10 each the proceeds of which offset the cost of issuing free boxes to all new Freshers every year.
Brian Cole says *FSG Returnable food containers are of excellent quality and have helped New College Oxford significantly reduce our carbon footprint. The containers are strong, sturdy, leak-proof, and elevate the takeout dining experience for our students.”
Results to Date
- Initial Purchase: 1,000 reusable containers.
- Containers Replaced: Over a 6-month period, the program has replaced 22,600 single-use disposable containers.
- Projected Impact: Over a 3-year period, 2,000 reusable containers will replace over 33,900 disposable ones.
Cost Savings
- Year One Savings to date: £9,000.
- Projected 3-Year Savings: Over £40,000.
Environmental Impact
- Year One Savings to date: 2.3 Tonne CO2 emissions
- Projected 3-Year Savings: Over 10 Tonne CO2 emissions : The equivalent of driving a car 1 ½ times around the earths circumference.
The program significantly reduces carbon emissions compared to using single-use disposable containers, contributing to the college’s sustainability goals.
New College Oxford’s collaboration with FSG Returnables is a leading example of how academic institutions can adopt sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and the bottom line.
