Zero waste
Waste less, reuse more and recycle effectively to meet the University's Zero Waste strategy targets.
The University is committed to becoming a Zero Waste University by 2030, and students and staff are central to making it happen.
Operational waste is managed by Estates, supported by the Department for Social Responsibility and Sustainability in some specific areas. For more information on Waste at the University, visit the Estates website.
Waste less, reuse more and recycle effectively
We encourage zero-waste through the Susatinability Rewards App, Sustainability Framework and Sustainability Champions network.
Here are our top tips for achieving zero-waste at the University:
Understand what items you can and cannot recycle at the University by by learning more about University recycling bins.
- If you're unsure about where to dispose unusual items, reach contact the Waste Office.
- If you're in a University Lab, find out how to properly handle lab waste.
Bring your own water bottle, bag for life, reusable lunch box and fabric napkins to cut down on throw-away packaging and single-use items.
Did you know all that there's a 30p charge for a single use cup at our cafes? Save your pocket and the planet by bringing your own.
Try repairing or upcycling a product to give it a new use and donate unwanted items to local charity shops rather than binning them.
Do you live in one of our accommodation sites? Look out for end-of-year item collections at campus and self-catering properties between May and June.
The IT Reuse project has reused over 3,000 PCs and 3,000 items like keyboards, mice, and monitors since 2015. Find out how your old computers and other IT equipment can be reused and what to do next.
Reusables are a great way of preventing personal waste, but what about waste from other University activities?
- Go paperless where possible, and when you need to print something do so double sided
- Organising an event? Use our sustainable event checklist
- Plan your meals, keep track of what’s in the fridge, don’t cook more than you need and freeze or share leftovers with friends. You’ll save money and help the environment in the process – win-win!
Case studies and blog posts
Read case studies and blog posts tagged as 'waste, reuse and recycling'