

Reusables
At UNCW, we are committed to reducing waste and supporting a more sustainable future through our Reusable Container Program. This initiative is designed to minimize single-use waste, promote circularity, and align with our Sustainability Action Plan, ensuring that convenience doesn’t come at the cost of the environment.
About
Our Reusable Container Program prioritizes waste diversion by shifting away from disposable packaging and encouraging reusable options. By participating, you help divert waste from landfills, reduce plastic pollution, and support responsible consumption.
Circularity is at the heart of this program. Our reusable containers are designed to stay in use longer, reducing the demand for new materials. Through a return, sanitize, and reuse system, we ensure that every container stays in the loop rather than becoming waste. By choosing reusables, you actively contribute to a closed-loop system that reduces environmental impact and conserves resources.
This program directly supports our Sustainability Action Plan by helping to achieve our waste reduction and climate goals. By participating, you help lower greenhouse gas emissions, decrease reliance on single-use plastics, and move us closer to a zero-waste future.
Reusable Food Containers
Help us reduce our campus waste by taking your meal to go in a stainless steel resuable container! Available at Wagoner and Shore Dining Halls, there is no charge to participate in the program as long as you return the containers in the allotted two day check out period.
How it works:
- Download the USEFULL app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
- Create your account:
- Select “University of North Carolina at Wilmington” as your community.
- Choose a payment method (UNCW One Card, credit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay) to cover any potential late or replacement fees.*
- Check out a container and enjoy your meal to go!
*Please note: Fees apply only if a container is returned late, lost, or damaged.

Reusable Beverage Containers
Sponsored by Campus Dining Sustainability, the Choose to Reuse program allows faculty, staff, and students to bring their own cups into participating locations and receive a discount on the cost of their hot beverage! This small step helps reduce single-use cup waste and supports our Sustainability Action Plan!

How it works:
- Bring your reusable cup to any of these campus locations:
- Port City Java
- Starbucks
- Einstein Bros. Bagels
- Dunkin’ Donuts
- Receive $0.25 off your hot beverage purchase.
This small step helps reduce single-use cup waste and supports a greener campus!