In summer 2025 we introduced new seaweed-based packaging from Notpla as part of our drive to bring sustainability into all our Taste operations. This change supports our Sustainable Food and Drink Policy 2026–31 and the wider Sustainable Imperial objectives.
Notpla was founded by Imperial alumni Pierre Paslier and Rodrigo Garcia Gonzalez, who first developed the edible bubble Ooho while studying on the Innovation Design Engineering programme. The company has since grown into a global leader in sustainable materials, creating packaging that is home-compostable, plastic-free and made from renewable seaweed extracts.
By using Notpla packaging across our campus outlets, we expect to:
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Replace over 450,000 single-use plastic items
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Save around 1,185kg of plastic (more than the weight of a Fiat 500)
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Cut 13,300kg of carbon emissions, equivalent to ten return flights from London to New York
This initiative reduces waste and helps raise awareness of sustainable innovation among our students and staff. It also reflects our commitment to using research, technology and partnerships to make Imperial’s food and drink operations more environmentally responsible.
We will continue to explore opportunities to expand the use of Notpla across our campuses and to share what we learn with other universities looking to make similar changes.
How to dispose of your Notpla container: Please place your used Notpla container in the General Waste bins, where it will be burnt for energy recovery. (We’re exploring composting solutions - more info soon!)
