Wollongong-based environmental organisations Surfrider Foundation UOW and Illawarra Intrepid Landcare are collaborating with University of Wollongong students to reduce single-use plastic bags on campus.
The Boomerang Bags initiative supplies businesses with reusable bags that can be borrowed by customers and returned after use.
University of Wollongong Environmental Education and Compliance Officer Alison Scobie said changes to waste production and management on campus start with the students.
She said solutions may be as simple as students bringing their own water bottles and coffee cups, and eating food from home.
Ms Scobie said youth involvement was a priority for environmental groups in the Illawarra.