The North-West University (NWU) has recently launched a campaign to address the issue of plastic pollution. The campaign was initiated after the vice-chancellor, Prof Bismark Tyobeka, earlier this year challenged all staff and students to fight plastic pollution.

The launch of the campaign, #BeatPlasticPollution #StopUsingPlasticBottles, took place simultaneously across all three campuses, with events held at the Mahikeng, Potchefstroom and Vanderbijlpark campuses.

During the campaign, the Safety, Health and Environment department at the NWU gave away a limited number of stainless-steel water bottles to staff members.

According to Percy Sehaole, specialist in environmental management and the co-ordinator of the initiative, the endeavour aims to reduce and eliminate the use of plastic bottles by using sustainable sources.

The objective is in threefold: to reduce the use of plastic bottles, to reduce the NWU’s carbon footprint and to make it second nature to recycle and re-use.

“With the support of its staff and students, the NWU is well on its way to achieving its goal of reducing plastic waste and promoting the responsible use of resources. Our intention is to meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Together, we can all take action to beat plastic pollution and make a positive impact on the environment," says Percy.

Furthermore, she shared that, as part of the university's commitment to sustainable development, various initiatives – such as drinking water analysis, carbon footprint calculation and waste recycling programmes – have been undertaken.

NWU employees on the Mahikeng Campus queue up to receive their stainless-steel water bottles during the #StopUsingPlasticBottles campaign.

Modiegi Sebidi and Nkosana Molefane show off their stainless-steel water bottles.

Prof Linda du Plessis, deputy vice-chancellor for planning and Vanderbijlpark Campus operations with students and staff members during the campaign launch.