The devastation caused by plastic, especially to our seas and wildlife, is cause enough for us to reconsider how we use plastic. Photo credit: Shutterstock
Our first action under the recently published environmental policy will be to phase out the annual issue of plastic membership cards to members. This proposal was endorsed by the Executive Committee at their April 2021 meeting.
Reducing our reliance on plastic is key to achieving the policy aims of minimising our impact on the environment and working towards becoming a zero-plastic organisation as soon as possible. The issue of new cards upon membership renewal will cease immediately, and the issue of cards to new members will be phased out shortly.
MU Head of Membership, Wasim Yunus, said: “We hope you’ll agree that giving up membership cards is a small price to pay in our drive to become a more sustainable, environmentally friendly organisation.”
Frequently Asked Questions about the change
Why have you taken this decision?
The devastation caused by plastic, especially to our seas and wildlife, is cause enough for us to reconsider how we use plastic.
So, like organisations in all sectors, we also want to support sustainability and limit our impact on the climate by working towards becoming a zero-plastic organisation as soon as possible.
How do I prove my membership?
We want our members to be confident that their membership is more than a card.
We have lots of wonderful member-only benefits, which you can access with your membership number. If in-person proof is required, then you have your MU PLI Certificate on your phone. Even an email about your membership renewal is sufficient proof that you’re a current member of the union.
If you’re unsure or you need further proof of your membership, please contact our membership team on 0207 840 5570 or membership@theMU.org. We’ll be happy to help.
Can I still attend an MU meeting, such as a Regional AGM, and vote without a card?
Absolutely. Members are always asked to register for MU meetings and events in advance and a membership check will be carried out, if necessary, by our team before you arrive.
Just bring some ID with you, such as your driving licence, your latest MU PLI certificate, or membership renewal letter. Electronic copies of these documents will be accepted as proof of membership.
What about paper use?
Just like reducing plastic use, we’re also looking at ways to minimise our use of paper and where possible use recycled materials.
Small steps make a big difference. That’s why it’s not only paper and plastic we must use less of. Our goal is also to reduce the amount of energy and water consumption as much as possible, and limit the need to travel, restricting it for necessity trips only.
Where can I read the MU’s Environmental Policy?
Visit the Environmental Policy page on our website.