United Nations Headquarters NYC
Plastic Reduction & Waste Management Strategy for United Nations Headquarters Cafeterias
Summary
Transforming UN cafeterias into models of sustainability by reducing plastic waste and improving waste separation through research, education, and actionable solutions.
Key Achievements
Cut single-use plastic waste in United Nations Headquarters (UNHQ) cafeterias through targeted, actionable recommendations.
Improved recycling compliance by identifying and addressing key sources of contamination.
Developed a practical toolkit and educational materials to guide UNHQ's transition to sustainable practices.
Informed UNHQ's Environmental Management System (EMS) with data-driven recommendations.
The Challenge
UNHQ aimed to reduce single-use plastic waste and improve waste separation across its seven cafeterias, aligning with:
Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Targets 11.6 and 12.5 (reducing waste and environmental impact)
Greening the Blue policies
NYC Business Recycling Rules (2017)
Despite these policies, plastic remained the dominant waste material, and even trace contamination could ruin an entire recycling load. Many products, such as bioplastic cold cups and plastic-lined paper cups, were non-recyclable, non-compostable, or posed health risks.
How We Helped
Conducted on-site audits, staff interviews, and product reviews to identify the sources of contamination and waste.
Researched and recommended cost-effective alternatives to single-use plastics, including reusable and compostable options, in collaboration with waste disposal partners.
Coached staff directly as a "zero waste coach," and engaged employees through outreach presentations, surveys, and discussions to improve compliance.
Designed educational materials and scalable solutions, including improved signage and organics waste stations.
The Impact
Provided UNHQ with research-backed recommendations supporting its long-term waste reduction and diversion goals.
Directly supported the UN's Greening the Blue initiative and advanced SDG Targets 11.6 and 12.5.
Helped ensure alignment with NYC Business Recycling Rules (2017), reducing compliance risk.
