No disposable cups at VU Campus vending machines

Frequently asked questions on the disappearing of disposable cups

• What changes affecting single-use cups will take effect on 1 July?

  From 1 July 2023, free disposable cups will no longer be available at hot-beverage dispensers across the entire campus.

• Where will single-use cups still be available?

  Disposable cups will only be available – at a charge – at staffed coffee corners and Eurest/ Doppio/ Spar sales outlets and is meant for consumption to go. 

• From what date will all single-use cups be banned on campus?

  On 1 July, all (free) cups at the coffee dispenser will be removed. From that moment, cups will only be available at a charge at staffed locations. After January 2024, we will see if we can also remove those cups (and other single use plastic, such as plastic plates, cutlery and bowls). The goal is as little single use plastic on campus. 

• What does a single-use cup cost if you don't carry your own?

  The governmental guideline is 25 cents. This amount can differ per location; each vendor can choose its own price. Multiple suppliers on campus follow this guideline, such as Eurest and SPAR.

• Are single-use cups the same price everywhere on campus?

  No. Each vendor may choose its own price for the cups.

• Will VU Amsterdam also arrange centrally for cups/glasses to be provided for employees or guests?

  Yes, Logistics will be distributing cups/glasses amongst all departments in the University on a one-off basis. Departments are also expected to find solutions and buy sufficient crockery themselves. 

• Where can I buy reusable cups?

  Reusable cups are on sale at Eurest coffee corners, at Doppio, SPAR and the VU Bookshop. It is also possible to purchase crockery through Repro, also in larger amounts and with a name or logo. 

  We are still talking with Maas about providing a vending machine for the sale of reusable cups. Unfortunately, this cannot be provided immediately.

• What arrangements are we making for visitors?

  Faculties and service departments should preferably offer guests coffee and tea in their own crockery or reusable cups. Units should therefore ensure they have sufficient crockery for offering coffee and tea to visitors. Central meeting venues will be supplied with extra crockery.    

  Guests can also order coffee and tea at the sales outlets (such as Eurest) and order coffee/tea there (with extra costs for a disposable cup). In addition to single-use cups, the sales outlets also sell reusable cups for a higher price. 

• Is VU Amsterdam also planning to introduce a deposit return scheme?

  A study on the introduction of a deposit return scheme for reusable cups will take place this summer in cooperation with VU Green Office and the University Student Council. There are now several systems at the market, such as BillieCup and WeCup.

• Will dishwashing facilities be provided at study areas/for students?

  No

• Doesn’t all this washing up actually consume more water, making it less environmentally friendly?

  Yes – in terms of water usage, this measure is less environmentally friendly. But it also helps us contribute to waste reduction. The main reason for this new approach, however, is that, like all other Dutch universities, we are obliged to anticipate new national laws and regulations.

• Is VU Amsterdam arranging anything to facilitate the washing of cups, e.g. by providing additional and sustainable detergent or putting up drainers?

  You can order detergent yourself from Lyreco. FCO will not provide any drainers – this is the responsibility of the departments. Consult with your secretary department or supervisor about the possibilities.

• Can we use Eurest catering services for the supply and cleaning of crockery, and for ordering additional crockery, etc.?

  All departments are responsible for arranging/buying their own crockery, as well as for making arrangements with one another regarding washing up. Clear agreements should be made within each department; everyone is responsible for keeping things clean and tidy and for washing crockery after use (or taking it home). Eurest's services cannot be used for this purpose.

• What is the policy regarding other Single-Use Plastics on campus?

  We also plan to develop policy on other disposables on campus at a later stage.

• How can I request tea towels and dishcloths?

  Via the FCO Service Desk: servicedesk.fco@vu.nl.

• Am I allowed to bring my own cup/containers/bowl to buy coffee at a coffee corner?

  Yes, gladly. Bring your own! Staffed coffee corners, restaurants and sales point should offer the possibility to bring your own cup (or other form of crockery). When bringing your own, you do not need to purchase disposable material.