How we measure our impact
for the SDGs

Sustainable Development Goals at our University

In 2019, we signed the University Commitment which recognises the significant scope of work needed to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the important role university communities play in reaching these goals. We are committed to sustainability for ourselves, our surrounding communities, and the world.

The SDGs offer a shared framework for all levels of government, businesses, community groups and education organisations to prioritise action between 2015 to 2030, across environmental, socio-cultural and economic sustainability.

How we measure our impact for the SDGs

We use the Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Ratings (previously Impact Rankings) and other frameworks, such as the Sustainability Tracking Assessment and Rating System (STARS), to measure our progress towards sustainability. The THE Impact Ratings aim to evaluate university performance in relation to the SDGs.

SDG15 Life on Land

Life on Land aims to conserve and restore terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems and their services, including forests, wetlands, mountains and drylands. This can be achieved through managing ecosystems in a sustainable way, including by halting deforestation and increasing afforestation and reforestation in the case of forests; restoring degraded land and soil; halting biodiversity loss; preventing introduction and reducing the impact of invasive species; preventing species poaching, trafficking and extinction; fair and equitable sharing of natural resources and their benefits (including genetic resources); and integrating natural values into planning and development processes. The mobilisation of financial resources is key to achieve this goal.

The University’s contribution to this goal includes researching and developing practical and ready-to-apply management methods for restoring degraded landscapes as well as improved processes for forestry and agriculture. Our teaching addresses terrestrial conservation issues in a multidisciplinary way including governance, sustainable agriculture, and restoration ecology. We partner with Indigenous knowledge holders to integrate Indigenous perspectives, knowledge, and culture into emerging land management practices and to enhance the biodiversity and environmental health of Tasmania.

Go to our Life on Land page

Supporting land ecosystems through education

Events about sustainable use of land

The University has partnered with various organisations to deliver events aimed to promote conservation, restoration and sustainable utilisation of the land.  Some 2025 examples include:

• Newnham Creek bank rehabilitation events (2023-2025) in partnership with Tamar NRM, the UTAS Landcare Society and the Environment Society. Students, staff and local community are invited to undertake rehabilitation work by removing invasive species and replanting Tasmanian native trees, shrubs and grasses to boost biodiversity. In 2025, the University invited Emeritus Professor Nigel Forteath to talk about aquatic and riparian life, why it is important and how this data will help UTAS manage the Newnham Creek for the benefit of biodiversity.
• Conservation Science Symposium (2023-ongoing).  the Tasmanian Land Conservancy (TLC) host this annual event, with invited talks from the University of Tasmania and other NGOs and government entities. The Symposium is aimed to the broad community. The University and TLC have a structured, critically important and enduring science collaboration, which results in the University’s science stories (both by staff and students) being strongly featured in the event lineup every year. In 2025, this public awareness event covered the work being done in Tasmanian reserves, landscape-scale conservation science, and other aspects of conservation and sustainable management of the land and natural values. Talks by University staff included: Wildlife gardening programs: an important but underutilised tool in the future conservation kit; Conservation advice in the Land for Wildlife program; and Restoration and management by design: lessons from the Midlands.
• Bioblitzes (2022-ongoing) involving an ecological survey of wildlife and experts' talks promoting conservation. A BioBlitz is a community effort, working with scientists and naturalists, to discover and record as many different species as possible within a chosen site for a set period. The improved species lists, including threatened species, supports conservation and sustainable utilisation of the land. In 2025, the University organised a Campus Nature Challenge event to encourage staff and students to help document biodiversity at the University’s campuses. The Campus Nature Challenge aims to increase opportunities for students and staff to connect to nature on their campuses and in their communities, to foster environmental stewardship, generate scientifically valuable data, and advance land conservation, particularly in urban settings.
• The University’s Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA) organised an event to plant 400 trees at the TIA Dairy Research Facility at Elliott on World Environment Day (June 2025). The work is part of the On-farm Natural Capital Accounting Demonstration project, led by Cradle Coast NRM in partnership with the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture. The project is helping demonstrate actively managing natural capital can support both environmental and production outcomes on farms. As a demonstration site, TIA's Dairy Research Facility is showcasing practical actions farmers can take to monitor, maintain and improve natural capital on their farms. From enhancing biodiversity and habitat through native revegetation to measuring and understanding the benefits that healthy natural assets provide, a range of initiatives are underway across the farm.

Sustainably farmed food on campus (policy)

The University of Tasmania is committed to supporting food systems (including those harvested from terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems) that are environmentally sustainable, socially responsible and economically resilient. Our approach recognises that food production and harvesting can significantly influence climate, biodiversity, soil health, water and aquatic resources and community wellbeing. We therefore seek to support farming and food production and harvesting systems that minimise environmental impacts, strengthen local food networks and contribute to long-term food system resilience.

University policies

The University has clear policies in place to ensure that food and other goods provided on campus are sourced in a sustainable and ethical manner, including those from terrestrial and aquatic systems.

The University's Sustainability Policy requires University activities to be planned and managed to mitigate environmental risks and prevent harm. Specifically, Principle 1.8 states that activities "will be planned and managed to mitigate risks of environmental or social damage", while Principle 1.9 commits the University to “operate sustainable campuses (…) through applying outcomes driven sustainable design and regenerative principles, circular economy approaches, assurance frameworks and operational tools”. These commitments provide the overarching governance framework for sustainably farmed and harvested food on campus.

Specifically, the University’s Procurement Policy mandates that all “procurement decisions will consider sustainable and ethical principles including managing the risk of modern slavery and maximise opportunities for local suppliers and indigenous suppliers” (Section 1, Principle 1.1, clause d).

The accompanying Sustainable Procurement Guide - designed to assist University staff in their decision making and to inform suppliers of our criteria to implement sustainability aspects of the Procurement Policy - provides further guidance for sound sustainable purchasing. The Guide is publicly available and includes requirements for food service providers. Specifically, this document states that: “Food from on-campus providers should not compromise the environmental, health, economic and social wellbeing of present and future generations.” Food service providers should consider:

• Sustainably and ethically produced supply chains (e.g., UTZ certified Rainforest Alliance Certified, Fair Trade certified)
• Menus are ‘plant-forward’ meaning the plant-based items are listed at the start of the menu
• Animal products are certified as humanely farmed and ethically sourced

The University of Tasmania has also developed a University position on sustainable food on campus, including eight sustainable Food Strategic Principles, with Principles 1 and 4 addressing sustainable produced/farmed food on campus:

• Principle 1: Prioritise Tasmanian-grown, ethical, fresh and in-season food
• Principle 2: Eating in Place by focusing on retaining or creating sites that contribute positively to student experience
• Principle 3: Procure local by preferencing and promoting Tasmanian suppliers
• Principle 4: Prioritise suppliers with health, nutrition and sustainability initiatives
• Principle 5: Attract small-scale, affordable, commercially viable and market driven pricing
• Principle 6: Outlets will not be exclusive nor subsidised, they will be commercially viable and meet student affordability
• Principle 7: Bring the learnings and expertise together in a Food Charter co-designed by staff and students
• Principle 8: Sustainability will be embedded; particularly with packaging, food security and reduction of waste to landfill

Furthermore, the Healthy, Sustainable, and Equitable Food Strategic Plan 2023-2028 establishes collective actions required to support informed and strategic decisions to support sustainably farmed food on campus. The Plan covers nine priority areas, with Priorities 4, 5 and 7 being relevant to this goal.

• Priority 1: Food security and social justice
• Priority 2: Food systems knowledge and skills
• Priority 3: Embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledges
• Priority 4: Urban agriculture and edible campuses
• Priority 5: Sustainable food procurement, commercial and social enterprises
• Priority 6: Facilities and services
• Priority 7: Community engagement, support, and partnerships
• Priority 8: Data, information, and knowledge translators
• Priority 9: Leadership, participation, and change-makers

Priority 4 specifically addresses the benefits of sustainable farmed food in urban agriculture, including reduced environmental impacts through organic farming on site, less transport, packaging, and storage (p. 25-28). Under this Priority, the Strategic Plan also points out that since the appointment of a University Community Garden Coordinator, food retail outlets have been purchasing vegetables and herbs sustainably grown and harvested on campus. Priority 5 addresses sustainable food procurement to ensure that sustainably farmed food offered on campus (beyond the University’s edible gardens) is prioritised. The Strategic Plan includes actions for food outlets, catered food for events and vending machines that support the provision of environmentally sustainable food and beverage options across campus (p. 32-36). Priority 7 covers partnerships with campus food outlets and includes an action for on-campus outlets to prioritise suppliers with health, nutrition and sustainability initiatives, which includes sustainable farmed and harvested food (p. 40). Contract terms are regularly monitored, and feedback is promptly provided to food outlet partners as necessary, with follow-ups to ensure actions taken.

Collectively, these policies establish the University's framework for supporting sustainably farmed food on campus. They seek to ensure that food available on campus is sourced from producers and suppliers that demonstrate environmentally responsible farming and food production practices, including local and seasonal production, ethical supply chains, responsible resource use, sustainable agriculture and, where relevant, recognised sustainability or animal welfare certifications. They guide the selection of food suppliers and food service providers and provide a framework for prioritising food that is sustainably and ethically produced

Sustainable farmed food on campus in practice

Campus food outlets are expected to align with the University's Food Strategic Principles and contribute to the objectives of the Healthy, Sustainable and Equitable Food Strategic Plan. Hence, the University is proud to support a number of local Tasmanian food businesses on campus that are committed to provide local, fresh and sustainable food, including sustainably and/or ethically farmed food products and vegetarian options in all outlets (with most outlets also offering vegan, gluten free and dairy free options). These food vendors are also committed to low cost and healthy meal options across all campuses and offer nutritional daily specials to provide affordable choices for students. Additionally, some campus food outlets regularly procure vegetables and herbs grown in the University food gardens and orchards in exchange for food vouchers for students.

A great example of the University’s commitment to providing sustainable, healthy and affordable food is the Source Eco Hub cooperative. Source is a University food outlet, although different from typical commercial food services, located on the Sandy Bay campus. Source is a community garden, kitchen and café that has succeeded in providing staff and students, as well as members of the community, with access to food that is ethical, sustainably farmed, local, organic, wholesome, vegetarian, good for the body and affordable. Source is a real place for the community to get a taste of what a sustainable food system is, with dishes being mostly sourced by produce from the garden, as well as building strong community networks. Source is run by members and volunteers to provide low cost and some ‘pay what you can’ meal options.

Additionally, there are also several sustainable food-related initiatives happening on campus including, but not limited to, food gardens that offer sustainably produced food. Implementing the Healthy, Sustainable, and Equitable Food Strategic Plan within the campus community gardens supports the provision of sustainably farmed fresh, local and nutritious food on campus for staff, students and local communities. The University supports a community garden network with food growing areas available at all campuses totalling over 4,000 m². The flagship University community garden is situated at the core of the new campus at Inveresk in Launceston and contains more than 40 raised garden beds covering some 850m² making it a small urban farm in scale. Throughout 2025, the University delivered a range of regionally targeted food garden and growing initiatives, strengthening local engagement and sustainable food production. Go to our Food and Gardens webpage to find more information on this and other sustainable food initiatives.

Maintain and extend current ecosystems' biodiversity

Aligning with our holistic approach to sustainability, the University of Tasmania has a multi-faceted response to the unfolding planetary biodiversity crisis by acting locally to globally, and from individual species to ecosystems. Hence, we work directly to maintain and extend existing ecosystems and their biodiversity, especially those under threat. Through our Stewardship for Sustainability Framework, we are committed to “manage the University’s natural environment – including terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems – to support biodiversity, with a strong focus on avoiding environmental harm, protecting rare and threatened species, preventing land, freshwater and marine pollution, and maximising ecosystem conservation, regeneration and restoration”.

On campus work

We manage our own grounds using an Integrated Pest Management Plan and focus on protecting, regenerating and enhancing native species and communities on our campuses. The University grounds, ecosystems and biodiversity are managed following the Plan established priorities, including:

• Recognise weed potential: Early detection, assessment and eradication of new weeds.
• Maintain areas of all ecosystems in good condition: This includes areas reserved for conservation purposes, as well as other areas of the landscape that contain plant communities not represented in conservation reserves.
• Use of synthetic chemicals only as a last resort: As part of maintaining ecosystem health, an organic approach is the preferred method for weed management across campuses.
• Control weeds impacting on other species (particularly those under threat).

We have led various efforts to safeguard the future of iconic and ecosystem integral species, building on a long history of ecosystem research, applied learning and community education. This has been addressed through various ongoing programs on-campus including:

• Ongoing biodiversity-focused management of the Sandy Bay University Reserve (~ 80 ha), home to several endangered and threatened species. The protection and enhancement of the natural environment has been included as a key element for the Reserve’s Fire Management Plan including suppression of weeds and encouraging endemic flora and fauna communities (Sandy Bay campus).
• Multi-year efforts delivering protection and improvement of Newnham Creek and targeted protection of tree hollows (Newnham campus),
• Protection of penguin nesting habitat and the installation of the largest green roof in Tasmania using plant seeds collected and grown out locally (West Park campus).
• Feral animal and weed control, following an Integrated Management Plan
• Inclusion of natural areas into the campus sustainability trails, with explanatory signage for local threatened species found in the area.

Off campus work

The University also acknowledges that environmental protection and sustainability are key priorities in the way the University operates and aims for net positive environmental outcomes beyond our campuses, with one of the main objectives being to maintain and improve ecosystems and biodiversity in an ecologically appropriate manner in shared land, in consultation with the university and local community groups.

Examples of current projects that include direct work to maintain and extend existing ecosystems and their biodiversity off-campus include:

• Quoll conservation efforts (2024-2028): Eastern quolls are an endangered carnivorous marsupial once common throughout southeastern Australia now restricted to Tasmania, where they are endangered. The University of Tasmania, together with the Tasmanian Land Conservancy and WWF Australia, and with the support of the Tasmanian Quoll Conservation Program, are investigating the drivers of quoll decline in Tasmania. This information has allowed to pursue some important conservation work – actively addressing these declines by supplementing flagging quoll populations in areas with minimal ongoing potential threats.
• NatureScan project (2024 – ongoing): University of Tasmania researchers and partners, directly support the maintenance and restoration of ecosystems by using affordable drone technology and AI to map, monitor and measure biodiversity change at very high resolution. By providing rapid, cost-effective data on vegetation composition, structure and ecosystem condition, the project enables land managers to track the outcomes of restoration and conservation activities, identify changes in threatened ecosystems, and make evidence-based management decisions. NatureScan is being applied at restoration sites such as The Quoin’s Honeysuckle Hill, where repeat drone surveys are used to monitor regeneration over time, helping to maintain and extend biodiversity while contributing to broader national biodiversity monitoring and conservation initiatives.
• The University’s Reserve Fire Centre is leading the Reserve Bushfire and Biodiversity Management Experiment (2024-2028), which directly contributes to maintaining and enhancing native ecosystems by testing land management approaches that reduce bushfire risk while supporting biodiversity in the University of Tasmania Bushland Reserve. Conducted in partnership with the City of Hobart, the project evaluates the ecological outcomes of treatments such as prescribed burning, mechanical thinning, and vegetation management through biodiversity surveys, fuel load assessments, and fire behaviour modelling. By identifying management practices that improve habitat quality and support native wildlife while increasing ecosystem resilience to fire, the research provides evidence-based guidance for conserving and restoring biodiversity in fire-prone landscapes, helping land managers make informed decisions that protect threatened ecosystems and species

Educational programs on ecosystems

The University of Tasmania offers a range of educational programmes focused on ecosystems, biodiversity, and the conservation of wild flora and fauna that are accessible to local and national communities.

Through the University’s Sustainable Living courses, local and national community members can undertake fully online learning on ecosystem health, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable land management, regardless of location. These courses are specifically designed to build environmental knowledge and practical skills for community application.

Units with strong ecosystems focus include:

• ‘Backyard Biodiversity’ teaches about local wildlife and the importance of biodiversity to human and ecosystem health and how biodiversity supports sustainable living.
• ‘Science of Gardening’ unpacks the science behind plant growth and sustainable gardening and how to apply scientific principles to nurture a thriving, eco-friendly garden that enhances local biodiversity.
• ‘Sustainable Design for Houses and Landscapes’ builds on practical knowledge of sustainable design for houses, expanding thinking to houses within landscapes - both natural and constructed - and interacting with climate, biodiversity, human health and urban and regional food systems.

Australian citizens are eligible to receive a 100% fee scholarship, which is automatically applied on enrolment; hence the course is free for local and national communities (students commencing in 2024 to 2026; to be confirmed for future academic years).

In addition, the University offers a publicly accessible self-guided Sustainability Tour for local communities at each of our main campuses. The tour explores how aspects of sustainability have been incorporated within the University of Tasmania, and features ecosystems and biodiversity on campus (e.g., Newnham Creek, University Reserve). Furthermore, national and international communities can do this tour virtually.

Take the Sustainability Tour

The University also offers a double degree (4 years) undergraduate in Bachelor of Natural Environments and Conservation and Master of Protected Area Conservation. This double degree is designed to train the next generation of environmental leaders with the needed technical and planning skills to deliver a sustainable life on land for both nature and people.

Sustainable management of land for agriculture (educational outreach)

The Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA) is a specialised institute at the University of Tasmania with a mandate to progress the agricultural industry of Tasmania and a vision to enable Tasmanian food producers and processors to accelerate primary sector productivity while maintaining and improving Tasmania’s land and water quality for future generations. TIA offers educational opportunities for local and regional communities on sustainable management of land for agriculture. With a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation, TIA aims to drive positive change in Tasmania’s agricultural sector, ensuring that the state remains a leader in high-quality, productive, and environmentally responsible agriculture and food production. A TIA flagship educational program is the annual Field Days (a free annual event) in their dairy and vegetable farms, which features research and practical insights supporting Tasmania’s agriculture sector, including in relation to sustainable management of land for agriculture. The events involve expert presentations, panel discussions and a guided walk around the research farms to see TIA and industry-led trials in action,offering the chance to speak with researchers and ask questions. In 2025, topics covered at these outreach events included biosecurity, emissions reduction from agriculture, growing value from irrigation, and natural capital accounting.

TIA is also a partner of agriCULTURED, an organisation that aims to cultivate opportunities and shape the future of Australia’s agri-food sector and regenerative tourism. The annual agriCULTURED multi-day event, which offers a mix of free community events and ticketed workshops and experiences, includes sessions for the community on sustainable management of land for agriculture and agritourism. For example, in the 2025 program, ‘The Science Behind Your Plate’ event hosted a four-course dinner that linked agricultural science themes with specially prepared dishes. Each agricultural themed dish was accompanied by a talk from experts covering topics related to sustainable management of land for agriculture such as the vital role soil plays in the production of healthy produce, support for farmers to diversify and build climate resilience and sustainable food systems.

In addition to its annual programmes, TIA delivers community outreach events that provide practical education on sustainable agricultural land management. In 2025, TIA partnered with the University of Tasmania Community Garden team to host ‘Prune-iversity’, a hands-on workshop, opened to the local community, at the University's 50 Trees Heritage Orchard. Participants learned best-practice orchard management techniques, including fruit tree pruning, canopy management, soil health considerations, pest and pollinator management, and strategies for maintaining productive and healthy orchard systems. The workshop was designed to support community members in applying sustainable horticultural practices in their own gardens and orchards.

TIA also hosted a public field demonstration on regenerative agriculture at Evandale, showcasing research into alternative grazing systems and their potential to improve drought resilience, pasture productivity, soil carbon outcomes, greenhouse gas emissions, and long-term farm profitability. The event provided farmers and industry participants with opportunities to engage directly with researchers, observe field trials, and learn about evidence-based approaches to building resilience to climate change and extreme weather events through sustainable land management practices.

Sustainable management of land for tourism (educational outreach)

The University of Tasmania delivers educational programs and community outreach activities that promote the sustainable management of tourism in environmentally sensitive destinations, with a particular focus on Antarctica and the Southern Ocean.

Through the University’s Antarctic Tourism research group , researchers work with tourism operators, policymakers and community stakeholders to improve understanding of sustainable tourism practices and to support responsible visitor behaviour. The group takes a multi-disciplinary approach to understanding tourism in the Antarctic region and aims to make Antarctic tourism an enriching and environmentally sustainable experience. The group also contributes to community educational activities to improve public understanding of sustainable tourism, environmental stewardship and the long-term protection of natural and cultural heritage destinations.

Specific examples of educational and outreach offerings for local and national communities on sustainable management of land for tourism include:

• The Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS), In partnership with HX Expeditions, has developed a world-first educational program for Antarctic tourists – the Antarctic Education Program (2024-ongoing). The program provides participants with learning opportunities focused on Antarctic science, wildlife, governance, history and responsible tourism practices, helping visitors understand their environmental responsibilities and become advocates for conservation. The program was expanded for the 2025-2026 season and includes a free introductory online Antarctic course available to expedition travellers, and an extended accredited course delivered through the University of Tasmania that provides deeper learning on Antarctic sustainability and stewardship. The initiative aims to build environmental awareness, promote sustainable tourism practices and strengthen public understanding of the challenges facing Antarctic ecosystems. As the partnership evolves, introductory short courses for other HX destinations will be developed, starting with the Arctic in 2026.
• As part of the University of Tasmania's Island of Ideas public lecture series, the Antarctic Tourism research group contributes to community education on the sustainable management of tourism in fragile environments through free public events and discussions. A recent example is Antarctica at Risk? The Cost of Tourism Across the Poles, a public lecture examining the rapid growth of tourism in Antarctica and the Arctic and its implications for environmental protection, governance and responsible visitation. The event explored how climate change and increasing accessibility are driving tourism growth in polar regions, while raising important questions about conservation, tourism regulation and visitor responsibility. The presentation drew on current research into the environmental, social and policy challenges associated with tourism in some of the world's most vulnerable ecosystems. The event featured Antarctic tourism and governance experts from the University of Tasmania and Nord University (Norway), bringing together researchers, policymakers, industry representatives and community members to discuss sustainable tourism futures and evidence-based approaches to managing tourism impacts in protected environments. Participation was free and open to the public, supporting wider community awareness and engagement with sustainable tourism issues.
• The Tasmanian School of Business and Economics also organised the ‘Climate Adaptation and the Future of Tourism’ seminar in 2026, which involved a discussion on how destinations can respond to climate change and explored climate adaptation, destination resilience and tourism strategy.

Furthermore, the University provides structured education in sustainable tourism through its Bachelor of Business (Tourism Management major). The Bachelor of Business emphasises real-world learning, engagement with industry, and an understanding of contemporary business challenges, with a strong focus on sustainability, ethics and responsible decision-making. By studying tourism within this broader business context, students are supported to consider how tourism can contribute to economic and community outcomes while responding to environmental and sustainability considerations that influence destinations and visitor experiences.

The University also offers a postgraduate unit on Sustainable Tourism Development, which provides students with an in-depth understanding of the principles and challenges of sustainable tourism. The unit explores the relationship between tourism and sustainable development, examines the application of sustainable tourism in practice, and critically reviews government policies, indicators, benchmarks and assessment tools used to guide sustainable tourism management. Through classroom learning and field-based experiences within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, students develop an understanding of how tourism can be managed in environmentally significant landscapes and how sustainable tourism principles can be applied to protect natural and cultural values while supporting visitor experiences and tourism activity.

Supporting land ecosystems through action

Sustainable use, conservation and restoration of land (policy)

The University of Tasmania is committed to the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems across all campuses, farms, reserves and research facilities. Through its policies, strategies and operational plans, the University actively protects biodiversity, restores degraded environments, manages threats to native species, and supports the long-term health of forests, grasslands, wetlands, coastal environments and other terrestrial ecosystems associated with University landholdings.

The University's Sustainability Policy mandates that “the University will develop, maintain, and operate sustainable campuses, both built and natural environments, through applying outcomes driven sustainable design and regenerative principles, circular economy approaches, assurance frameworks and operational tools” (Principle 1.9). This commitment recognises that the stewardship of natural systems is fundamental to the University's environmental responsibilities and decision-making.

In addition, the University's overarching sustainability framework, Stewardship for Sustainability, commits the institution to managing its natural environment, including terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, to support biodiversity and ecological integrity. This is one of the key objectives under our goal within the Operations section. The framework specifically emphasises avoiding environmental harm, protecting rare and threatened species, preventing pollution, and maximising ecosystem conservation, regeneration and restoration outcomes.

Implementation of these policies and associated requirements and objectives is guided by the University’s Grounds and Biodiversity Action Plan. Objective 1 of this Plan is to “identify and manage threats to biodiversity, ensure the conservation, restoration and sustainable use of ecosystems, and have a net positive outcome for native species” across University-managed land. Likewise, Objective 4 is to “engage with external stakeholders to achieve community-level biodiversity outcomes.”

The University further supports ecosystem health through its Integrated Pest Management Plan, which adopts an environmentally responsible approach to pest management. This approach reduces ecological impacts while protecting native species and habitat values on University properties. The Plan prioritises prevention, monitoring and non-chemical control methods, using pesticides only as a last resort. Specifically, priorities are:

• Recognise weed potential: Early detection, assessment and eradication of new weeds.
• Maintain areas of all ecosystems in good condition: This includes areas reserved for conservation purposes, as well as other areas of the landscape that contain plant communities not represented in conservation reserves.
• Use of synthetic chemicals only as a last resort: As part of maintaining ecosystem health, an organic approach is the preferred method for weed management across campuses.
• Control weeds impacting on other species (particularly those under threat).

Furthermore, the University has strengthened these commitments by joining the global Nature Positive Universities Alliance, committing to enhancing the university’s positive impacts on nature (both land and aquatic ecosystems) and restoring species and ecosystems that have been harmed by the impacts of the university and its activities. The pledge includes four key commitments: conducting biodiversity baseline assessments; setting measurable, time-bound targets; taking bold action to reduce biodiversity impacts and protect and restore species and ecosystems (while influencing others to do the same); and providing transparent annual reporting. The University has completed biodiversity baseline assessments across its campuses, including evaluations of threatened species, weeds, natural values and key environmental threats. This evidence-based approach supports targeted actions and transparent reporting on progress toward biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration and nature-positive outcomes.

Monitoring IUCN and other conservation species (policies)

The University of Tasmania has formal policies and management plans that require the identification, monitoring and protection of threatened species, including species listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and relevant Australian and Tasmanian threatened species legislation.

The University's Sustainability Policy mandates that “the University will develop, maintain, and operate sustainable campuses, both built and natural environments, through applying outcomes driven sustainable design and regenerative principles, circular economy approaches, assurance frameworks and operational tools” (Principle 1.9). This commitment provides the overarching policy basis for protecting biodiversity and natural environments across University operations. Specific requirements for identifying, monitoring and protecting threatened species are further detailed in Stewardship for Sustainability and the Grounds and Biodiversity Action Plan.

In addition, the University's overarching sustainability framework, Stewardship for Sustainability, commits the institution to managing its natural environment, including terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, to support biodiversity and ecological integrity. Specifically, the document highlights a strong focus on “protecting rare and threatened native species”. The framework also includes a section that explicitly requires robust evidence-based monitoring and formal reporting approach on performance.

Furthermore, the University’s Grounds and Biodiversity Action Plan has a key objective to “identify and manage threats to biodiversity, ensure the conservation, restoration and sustainable use of ecosystems, and have a net positive outcome for native species” across University-managed land (Objective 1). Under this objective, Action 1.1 requires the establishment of baseline biodiversity records and an ongoing monitoring program for native and invasive flora and fauna across University-managed land. This action specifically lists as key performance indicators the number of threatened native flora, fauna and communities, as well as species and communities that are bushfire-sensitive and vulnerable to impacts of climate change. The action also mandates the inclusion of threatened species as listed in the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species, the Australian Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 and the Tasmanian Threatened Species Protection Act 1995.

The University has strengthened these commitments by joining the global Nature Positive Universities Alliance, committing to enhancing the university’s positive impacts on nature (both land and aquatic ecosystems) and restoring species and ecosystems that have been harmed by the impacts of the university and its activities. The pledge includes four key commitments: conducting biodiversity baseline assessments; setting measurable, time-bound targets; taking bold action to reduce biodiversity impacts and protect and restore species and ecosystems (while influencing others to do the same); and providing transparent annual reporting.

The University has already completed a baseline species assessment of all our campuses that identifies those that are of concern, threatened or endangered following regional, national and international lists. Species are identified using the Natural Values Atlas and LISTMap, together with site-level biodiversity assessments undertaken across University properties. The list is publicly available and updated regularly, with the latest update being conducted in 2024. We also have assessed natural values and threats. Monitoring is undertaken through periodic biodiversity reviews, campus natural values assessments, weed and pest assessments, Some examples of species in our land and surrounding areas that have been identified as IUCN threatened species are: Swift Parrot, Tasmanian Devil, Forty-spotted Pardalote, Eastern Quoll, South Esk Pine, Blue-winged Parrot and Eastern Barred Bandicoot. The full list of threatened species is available from the University’s Sustainability Portal.

Where threatened species or their habitat occur on or adjacent to University land, protection measures include  habitat conservation, ecological restoration, weed suppression, feral animal control, integrated pest management, protection of sensitive habitat areas, rehabilitation of degraded ecosystems, and restoration projects such as Newnham Creek rehabilitation and protection of Little Penguin habitat. The University's Integrated Pest Management Plan further supports threatened species protection by prioritising prevention, monitoring and non-chemical control methods and using pesticides only as a last resort.

Go to our Natural Environment webpage to find more information on this and other Life on Land initiatives.

Local biodiversity included in planning and development

The University of Tasmania incorporates biodiversity considerations into the planning, design, development and management of its campuses and facilities. Through its Sustainability Policy, Stewardship for Sustainability framework, Grounds and Biodiversity Action Plan, and associated design, landscaping and construction management requirements, the University seeks to avoid environmental harm, protect biodiversity and ensure that development activities consider local ecological values.

The University's Sustainability Policy mandates that “the University will develop, maintain, and operate sustainable campuses, both built and natural environments, through applying outcomes driven sustainable design and regenerative principles, circular economy approaches, assurance frameworks and operational tools” (Principle 1.9). This commitment applies to new developments, refurbishments and infrastructure projects and provides the overarching framework for incorporating environmental and biodiversity considerations into decision-making.

In addition, the University's overarching sustainability framework, Stewardship for Sustainability, commits the institution to managing its natural environment, including terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, to support biodiversity and ecological integrity. Specifically, the document indicates that green building standards, among other guiding standards and approaches, will be applied in the design and refurbishment of all buildings to ensure long-term sustainability.

Furthermore, the University’s Grounds and Biodiversity Action Plan has a key objective to “identify and manage threats to biodiversity, ensure the conservation, restoration and sustainable use of ecosystems, and have a net positive outcome for native species” across University-managed land (Objective 1). Under this objective, Action 1.1 requires establishing a baseline and ongoing monitoring of biodiversity to inform location specific biodiversity management plans – these can then be used in planning and development process. Action 1.12 requires that new developments incorporate biodiversity-friendly measures at the design stage, as embedded in the University Design Guidelines. Consequently, new development and redevelopment projects are required to consider biodiversity at the design stage, assess potential impacts on ecological values, and incorporate biodiversity-friendly measures into project planning and design.

The University incorporates biodiversity considerations into campus master planning processes. A clear example is the Sandy Bay campus Masterplan, where biodiversity assessments informed land-use planning and redevelopment decisions from the earliest stages of the planning scheme amendment process. The Masterplan included an Impact Assessment and Strategic Plan Analysis covering biodiversity (section 5.9), with biodiversity explicitly incorporated into the planning scheme amendment process (section 7.2.5). A detailed Natural Values Assessment (NVA) was undertaken prior to redevelopment planning and identified areas covered by native vegetation that provided important habitat for native flora and fauna. The assessment evaluated potential impacts on biodiversity, including impacts to native habitat, threatened vegetation communities and habitat for nationally significant species such as the Swift Parrot. The planning process required biodiversity considerations to be incorporated into land-use decisions. The Masterplan specifically requires that significant native vegetation be managed and protected at the earliest stages of land-use planning, that intensive development be directed away from areas with recognised biodiversity values where possible, and that clearance of native vegetation communities that provide habitat for threatened species be minimised.

The recent Forestry Building redevelopment in Hobart – now renamed The Forest – demonstrates how biodiversity objectives can be integrated into development outcomes. The project incorporates a regenerated living forest beneath the heritage dome containing more than 3,200 native plants and showcases the integration of biodiversity enhancement within a major building redevelopment.

In addition, the University’s Contractors and Building Users Sustainability Guide highlights the importance of maintaining and enhancing "the natural environment on UTAS properties to encourage biodiversity and minimise impact on ecosystems." Section 8 covers biodiversity and the natural environment and includes actions such as “protect environmentally sensitive areas” and “revegetate areas damaged through construction or other University-related activities”.

Alien species impact reduction (policies)

The University of Tasmania has a formal framework to prevent, monitor and manage alien and invasive species across its campuses and facilities. Through the University's Sustainability Policy, Stewardship for Sustainability framework, Grounds and Biodiversity Action Plan, and Integrated Pest Management Plan, the University seeks to minimise the impacts of invasive plants, animals and other pest species on biodiversity, ecosystems and campus operations.

The University's overarching sustainability framework, Stewardship for Sustainability, commits the institution to managing its natural environment to support biodiversity, ecological integrity and the protection of native species. Consistent with this commitment, the University identifies and manages threats to biodiversity, including those posed by invasive and alien species.

The primary mechanism for reducing the impact of alien species is the University's Integrated Pest Management Plan. The Plan adopts an environmentally responsible approach that focuses on prevention, monitoring and early intervention. It recognises that invasive species are a significant threat to biodiversity and ecosystem health and therefore prioritises the prevention of new introductions, the early detection of emerging threats, and the management of established pest populations. The Integrated Pest Management Plan requires:

• monitoring and surveillance of pest and weed species across University-managed land;
• early detection and eradication of newly established invasive species before they become widespread;
• prioritisation of weed control activities according to ecological value, biodiversity risk and management urgency;
• avoidance of high-risk invasive plant species in landscaping and planting projects;
• hygiene and biosecurity measures to reduce the accidental introduction and spread of pests and weeds;
• restoration and revegetation using appropriate native plant species following weed control and land rehabilitation activities; and
• the use of biological, cultural, physical and chemical control methods, with pesticides used only as a last resort.

The University's Grounds and Biodiversity Action Plan further supports these objectives through actions that identify and manage threats to biodiversity across University-managed land (actions 1.1 and 1.11). Monitoring of native and invasive flora and fauna forms part of the University's ongoing biodiversity management program, ensuring that invasive species impacts are identified and managed before they significantly affect native ecosystems.

The University also undertakes regular assessments of natural values, threatened species and environmental threats across its properties, including alien species and their impact. These assessments support evidence-based decision-making and help prioritise invasive species management efforts in areas of high ecological value and habitat for threatened species. In addition, the University is a member of the Nature Positive Universities Alliance and has completed biodiversity baseline assessments across its campuses. This work helps identify invasive species pressures, supports ongoing monitoring, and informs actions to restore native habitats and improve ecological resilience.

Through these policies, plans and management practices, the University of Tasmania actively reduces the impact of alien species on campus, protects native biodiversity and supports the long-term health and resilience of its terrestrial ecosystems.

Collaboration to maintain shared land ecosystems

The University acknowledges that environmental protection and sustainability are key priorities in the way the University operates and aims for net positive environmental outcomes beyond our campuses, with one of the main objectives being to maintain and improve ecosystems and biodiversity in an ecologically appropriate manner in shared land, in collaboration with the local community.

Examples of current projects that involve collaboration to maintain and extend shared land ecosystems and their biodiversity include:

• Quoll conservation efforts (2024-2028): Eastern quolls are an endangered carnivorous marsupial once common throughout southeastern Australia now restricted to Tasmania, where they are endangered. The University of Tasmania, together with the Tasmanian Land Conservancy and WWF Australia, and with the support of the Tasmanian Quoll Conservation Program, are investigating the drivers of quoll decline in Tasmania. This information has allowed to pursue some important conservation work – actively addressing these declines by supplementing flagging quoll populations in areas with minimal ongoing potential threats.
• NatureScan project (2024 – ongoing): University of Tasmania researchers in collaboration with the Terrestrial Ecosystem Research Network, the University of Adelaide and the Department of Climate Change Energy Environment and Water, directly support the maintenance and restoration of ecosystems by using affordable drone technology and AI to map, monitor and measure biodiversity change at very high resolution. By providing rapid, cost-effective data on vegetation composition, structure and ecosystem condition, the project enables land managers to track the outcomes of restoration and conservation activities, identify changes in threatened ecosystems, and make evidence-based management decisions. NatureScan is being applied at restoration sites such as The Quoin’s Honeysuckle Hill, where repeat drone surveys are used to monitor regeneration over time, helping to maintain and extend biodiversity while contributing to broader national biodiversity monitoring and conservation initiatives.
• The University’s Reserve Fire Centre is leading the Reserve Bushfire and Biodiversity Management Experiment (2024-2028), which directly contributes to maintaining and enhancing native ecosystems by testing land management approaches that reduce bushfire risk while supporting biodiversity in the University of Tasmania Bushland Reserve. Conducted in partnership with the City of Hobart, the project evaluates the ecological outcomes of treatments such as prescribed burning, mechanical thinning, and vegetation management through biodiversity surveys, fuel load assessments, and fire behaviour modelling. By identifying management practices that improve habitat quality and support native wildlife while increasing ecosystem resilience to fire, the research provides evidence-based guidance for conserving and restoring biodiversity in fire-prone landscapes, helping land managers make informed decisions that protect threatened ecosystems and species.
• Species Hotels (2016-ongoing), an award-winning program that involves architecture students and lecturers working in collaboration with schools, NGOs such as Greening Australia, scientists, landowners, artists, designers and engineers. Every year, students design accommodation for a range of native animals, including threatened species (e.g., Tasmanian devils, quolls, micro bats and pardalotes), with ‘hotels’ then installed in shared land, hence contributing to maintaining ecosystems.
• Through the UTAS Landcare Society (2019-ongoing), the University works with Landcare Tasmania, and Landcare groups across the state. The Society organises several events annually, with a focus on community environmental restoration projects, ranging from removing weeds from urban parks to restoring pine plantations back to native forests and restoring degraded wetlands.

Land sensitive waste disposal

Water discharge guidelines and standards

The University of Tasmania is committed to protecting water quality across its campuses and operations through policies, standards, guidelines, infrastructure and operational controls that prevent pollution of waterways and ensure the responsible management of wastewater, stormwater and hazardous substances. These measures establish clear expectations for water discharges and support the protection of ecosystems, wildlife, human health and welfare. This commitment is embedded within the University's sustainability governance framework and supported through specific operational procedures, contractual requirements and environmental management practices.

Policy, governance and guidelines

The University's Sustainability Policy establishes the responsibility to develop, maintain and operate sustainable campuses and natural environments through the application of sustainability principles, assurance frameworks and operational tools (Principle 1.9). These commitments guide the management of activities that may result in water discharge across all University sites.

The University's Stewardship for Sustainability further commits the institution to protecting natural systems and reducing environmental impacts associated with campus operations. Water quality protection is embedded within objectives relating to pollution prevention, ecosystem protection and sustainable resource management. The framework specifically identifies the "prevention of land, freshwater and marine pollution, including from water discharges" as a key operational objective (Operations section, p.21) and includes the number of stormwater pollution incidents as a performance indicator used to monitor progress.

The University's Grounds and Biodiversity Action Plan further supports these objectives through actions that apply best-practice stormwater management to improve biodiversity, avoid water pollution, mitigate flood risks, and maximise water retention and recycling (Action 1.9). Examples include the application of Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) principles, minimising the extent of sealed surfaces to reduce runoff, incorporating reed beds and pollutant-trapping infrastructure where required, and partnering with Traditional Owners to share Indigenous water management knowledge alongside Western scientific approaches.

In addition, the University’s Contractors and Building Users Sustainability Guide requires all contractors, staff, students and visitors undertaking activities on University properties to minimise impacts on water quality. Section 4 of the guide focuses specifically on water efficiency and water quality, with section 4.1 including measures to reduce stormwater pollution and improve environmental outcomes from building operations and refurbishment activities. The Guide also requires University activities to comply with stormwater and trade waste regulatory requirements, to ensure no pollutants are discharged into the stormwater and local waterways.

Chemical and Hazardous Substance Controls

The University maintains a comprehensive Chemical Management Framework to prevent hazardous substances from entering water systems, and to prevent and control accidental spills that could contaminate land or waterways. Key requirements (see Chemical Waste Management and Disposal section) include:

• Hazardous chemicals must not be procured or used unless a waste disposal plan is in place.
• All chemical waste containers must be clearly labelled and managed according to their properties.
• Incompatible wastes must be segregated.
• Chemical spills must be prevented wherever possible and immediately controlled and cleaned up if they occur.
• Risk assessments must identify controls, including spill kits, eyewash stations, containment measures and emergency response procedures.
• Chemical waste is collected and disposed of through licensed hazardous waste contractors.

Water Treatment and Discharge Management

The University employs a range of treatment systems and engineered controls to ensure water discharges do not adversely affect receiving environments. Wastewater treatment is conducted before discharge to reduce land, freshwater and marine water pollution. Treatment is conducted either on-site at specialised University facilities (e.g., integrated wastewater treatment at the Experimental Aquaculture Facility; reed beds at various experimental farms) or by TasWater (the single state-wide utility in Tasmania). Examples include:

• Integrated wastewater treatment systems at the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) Experimental Aquaculture Facility, where research wastewater is treated before discharge.
• Reed bed treatment systems at agricultural research facilities, where wastewater from septic and holding tanks is biologically treated through natural filtration processes before release.
• Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) wetlands that filter, slow and treat stormwater runoff before it enters the stormwater drainage network and ultimately the Derwent River.
• Installation of grease traps and drainage treatment infrastructure in appropriate facilities to prevent contaminants entering wastewater systems.
• Green infrastructure, including the Field Building green roof, which captures, filters and reuses rainwater and improves the quality of water discharged to downstream waterways.

Policy on plastic waste reduction

The University of Tasmania is committed to reducing plastic waste across all campuses as part of its broader commitment to sustainable resource management, circular economy principles, and responsible procurement. This commitment is embedded within the University's Sustainability and Procurement Policies, Stewardship for Sustainability, Sustainable Procurement Guide, Waste Minimisation Action Plans and resource management programs.

The University recognises that plastic pollution has significant environmental impacts, particularly in Tasmania's terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems. In response, the University applies the waste hierarchy and circular economy principles, prioritising the avoidance, reduction, reuse and recovery of materials before disposal. These principles are implemented through the University's governance and resource management programs.

Policy, governance and guidelines

The University's Sustainability Policy establishes the overarching requirement to develop, maintain and operate sustainable campuses and natural environments through the application of outcomes driven sustainable design and regenerative principles, circular economy approaches, assurance frameworks and operational tools (Principle 1.9). These commitments provide the institutional framework for reducing the use of single-use plastics and preventing plastic pollution associated with campus operations.

The University's Stewardship for Sustainability reinforces these commitments by furthering the responsible management of resources throughout their lifecycle and applying circular economy principles to University operations. The framework specifically identifies a "circular economy approach integrated to contribute to waste management by prioritising waste avoidance, increased reuse and recycling, and minimising landfill disposal" as a key action to enable the achievement of our commitments and objectives (Operations section, p.21).

Likewise, the Procurement Policy mandates that procurement decisions will consider sustainable and ethical principles (Principle 1.1.d). The associated Procurement Procedure states that “In line with the University’s strategic goals, the purchaser should aim to maximise the sustainability of the procurement (for example by selecting items that can be repaired and reused instead of single use)” (Clause 5.2.a). The Sustainable Procurement Guide further advances the minimisation of packaging, particularly plastic packaging, as a key principle of sustainable purchasing (p.1). This Guide also establishes specific requirements for food service providers, including that all food sold on campus is single use plastic free and that all packaging, including coffee cups and lids, be compostable or recyclable (p.3).

Furthermore, the University's Waste Minimisation Action Plan 2021-2025 (now succeeded by the Waste Minimisation Action Plan 2026-2030) translates these policy commitments into operational actions specifically aimed at reducing plastic waste and supporting circular economy outcomes. Relevant actions include:

• Implement preferred procurement guidelines in catering contracts that eliminate single-use plastics and non-compostable items (Action 10)
• Influence key suppliers to reduce or avoid the excessive use of packaging including materials such as plastic and foam (Action 11)
• Implement a single-use petroleum-based plastic ban (Action 14)

In addition, our University’s Contractors and Building Users Sustainability Guide and Clean Out and Disposal Process Guide also have guidelines to minimise the amount of plastic going to landfill through careful selection of items when purchasing, repairing and reusing as much as possible, and recycling appropriately.

As the University recognises that plastic pollution has significant environmental impacts, particularly in Tasmania's terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems, plastic waste is a key element in all these policies and governance documents.

The University's approach is further aligned with Tasmania's broader efforts to reduce plastic pollution. The City of Hobart (where the University’s main campus is located) has implemented a by-law to reduce single-use plastics. The Single-use Plastics By-law identifies specific items that are banned since 2021 to reduce plastic waste ending up in landfills, including plastic cutlery, straws, stirrers, takeaway containers, cold and hot cups and lids and other. Consistent with our policies, plans and strategies, the University supports and complies with these requirements across applicable campus operations.

Actions to reduce plastic waste

The University complements its policy and procurement measures with a range of operational initiatives designed to eliminate unnecessary plastic consumption, increase reuse opportunities and ensure plastics are recovered through appropriate recycling pathways wherever possible. Our plastic reduction actions include:

• Requiring commercially compostable food and beverage packaging in on-campus catering contracts since 2021, reducing reliance on conventional single-use plastic packaging.
• Dedicated recycling streams for commingled recyclables, paper and cardboard, organics, batteries, e-waste and other materials.
• Recycling Walls that collect difficult-to-recycle items, including some plastic-based products and packaging, enabling materials to be recovered through specialist recycling programs.
• Promoting reusable alternatives, including reusable cups and refillable drink bottles, with water refill stations available across campuses. These stations are available to students, staff and visitors and are featured in campus maps (which can be found in Our Campuses) or search for 'water station' in UniMaps.
• Implementing sustainable event practices that encourage waste avoidance, reuse, recycling and composting, while reducing the consumption of disposable materials, with plastic items being key to several actions. Two guidelines are available, the Tasmanian Government Sustainable Event guidelines and the Australian Campuses Towards Sustainability (ACTS) Sustainable Events Checklist.
• Applying sustainable procurement principles that encourage the purchase of durable, repairable, reusable and recyclable products with minimal packaging
• Supporting a cross-University Plastics Minimisation Working Group through the Sustainability Committee to identify and implement opportunities to reduce plastic consumption and improve circularity outcomes.
• Education, signage and engagement programs that help students, staff and visitors correctly sort materials, including plastic, and reduce contamination of recycling streams.

Policy on hazardous waste disposal

The University of Tasmania maintains a comprehensive framework of policies, procedures and operational practices to ensure the safe management and disposal of hazardous materials across all campuses and activities.

Policy and governance

The University's Sustainability Policy requires University activities to be planned and managed to mitigate environmental risks and prevent harm. Specifically, Principle 1.8 states that staff and student activities "will be planned and managed to mitigate risks of environmental or social damage", while Principle 1.9 commits the University to developing and operating sustainable campuses through "circular economy approaches" and operational tools. These commitments provide the overarching governance framework for responsible waste and hazardous material management.

Supporting this commitment, the University's Waste Minimisation Action Plan guides the University community in achieving its waste minimisation and resource recovery objectives through application of the waste hierarchy and circular economy principles across all University operations and activities. The Plan aims to minimise waste generation, maximise resource recovery and reduce environmental impacts associated with waste disposal. It includes a specific action to ensure hazardous medical/research wastes are minimised and appropriately managed (Action 12).

Hazardous chemical management

The University's Chemical Management Framework establishes mandatory requirements for the procurement, storage, use and disposal of hazardous chemicals. The framework recognises that risks posed by hazardous chemicals must be appropriately managed to reduce the likelihood of harm to people, communities and the environment. Specific requirements relating to hazardous waste disposal include:

• Hazardous chemicals must not be procured or used unless a plan for disposal of waste and unused product is in place, and this requirement must be incorporated into the relevant task risk assessment.
• Users are required to clearly and accurately label all waste containers so that hazardous waste can be managed and disposed of safely.
• Hazardous waste must be appropriately segregated, and incompatible chemical wastes must not be mixed.
• Hazardous chemical inventories are maintained through the University's Chemwatch system, and regular stocktakes are undertaken to support safe management and disposal of chemicals.
• Legacy or out-of-date chemicals with no planned future use are required to be identified and disposed of through approved disposal processes.
• Chemical spills must be responded to immediately in accordance with Safety Data Sheets (SDS), risk assessments and relevant spill response procedures.

The University’s Safety and Wellbeing Procedure covers hazardous chemicals (Section 5.1.16) and provides guidelines for our community members to appropriately manage and dispose of these materials. The procedure requires community members working with hazardous chemicals to:

• complete relevant inductions and training before undertaking work involving hazardous chemicals;
• comply with approved safe systems of work and risk management controls; and
• work under arrangements where a Hazardous Chemicals Coordinator (HCC) is appointed for areas where hazardous chemicals are used or stored. HCCs must exercise due diligence and take reasonable steps to ensure chemicals are correctly stored, transported and disposed of.

Operational disposal processes

The Clean Out and Disposal Process Guide provides a step-by-step guidance for the proper disposal of controlled waste, including biological, chemical and other hazardous materials. The guide uses a decision-tree approach to assist staff in identifying waste categories and determining the appropriate disposal pathway. It also provides supporting information on controlled waste classifications to ensure compliance with regulatory and environmental obligations.

The University uses a licensed waste contractor for the collection and treatment of hazardous chemical waste, with regular collections scheduled across campuses. Staff coordinate disposal through Hazardous Chemical Coordinators, Facility Managers and the Safety and Wellbeing team to ensure compliance with legislative and environmental requirements.

The University's hazardous materials management practices operate in accordance with relevant legislation and standards, including the Work Health and Safety Act 2012 (Tas), the Dangerous Goods Act 1976 (Tas) and the Poisons Act 1971 (Tas), together with relevant Australian Standards governing the storage, handling and disposal of hazardous substances.