Plastic waste is known to be hazardous due to its detrimental effects on the environment and human health. Plastic pollutes soil, water, and air, and can break down into microplastics that pose risks if they enter the body. Furthermore, burning plastic waste releases toxic substances that can trigger various health issues.
Demonstrating its concern regarding this issue, the Faculty of Animal Science at UGM has taken concrete action by eliminating the use of plastic during the 2025 New Student Campus Life Introduction (PIONIR) program, held from August 4 to 9, 2025. All meals provided during the event are prepared without single-use plastic packaging.
“Students are asked to bring their own food containers and water bottles from home. Additionally, the lunch meals have been prepared by a vendor without the use of plastic,” said Nurma Diani Sekarsih, S.Pd., MBA, Head of the Faculty of Animal Science Administrative Office, on the sidelines of the PIONIR event on Tuesday (5/8).
This policy, Nurma added, aligns with UGM’s commitment to supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Similar efforts were previously pioneered by the UGM Faculty of Animal Science Health Promoting University (HPU) team in 2024.
“It also serves as an educational opportunity for new students to adopt a healthy and eco-friendly lifestyle,” he added.
This plastic-free practice is not a first; the Faculty of Animal Science at UGM consistently implements it across various other activities, such as meetings, seminars, and ceremonial events.
Thanks to this commitment, the Faculty previously won an award in UGM’s waste management competition, held as part of UGM’s anniversary celebrations several years ago.
Original article: https://fapet.ugm.ac.id/fapet-ugm-tegaskan-komitmen-lingkungan-lewat-pionir-bebas-plastik/
Translated by: Sarah Suminar