A student smiling whilst seated on a bench in the memorial garden.

Sustainability on campus

Intro

We are committed to protecting the environment and continually improving our environmental performance through our certified ISO14001 Environmental Management System.

Find out more about what we are doing on campus to promote sustainability.

Jump to each section on:

Student and staff engagement

UWL is supporting several initiatives aimed at increasing student and staff engagement. Have a look at our Sustainability Engagement Strategy for more information about our plans to encourage a positive behaviour change by cultivating a culture of conscious environmental responsibility amongst staff, students and the local community.

View our environmental sustainability engagement strategy

  • Student Induction – Welcome Talk

    Ariel shot of green and yellow fields. Through the white fluffy clouds, you can see wind turbines dotted over the fields.

    During the student induction process, all students are given an overview of sustainability and climate change via a Welcome Talk presentation. View the student induction on sustainability (pdf, 1.18mb).

  • Linkedin Learning - Students

    All UWL students have access to over 13,000 courses taught by industry experts, with many new courses added weekly. With a vast library of high-quality courses taught by industry experts, LinkedIn Learning offers a wide range of topics, including sustainability and climate change. This platform allows you to engage in self-study on a wide range of professional and academic skills.

    Please find a few selections of sustainability-related Linkedin Learning courses that you may be interested in (please note, that you'll be expected to log in with your details):

    You can access the full list of courses by logging into LinkedIn Learning website.

  • Climate Fresk workshops

    Climate Fresk logo with a tagline "All the cards are in your hands!"

    The University partners with Equans to organise and deliver Climate Fresk workshops for staff and students. The Climate Fresk workshop is an interactive and collaborative activity which enables individuals to have an open and positive conversation about climate solutions.

    UWL’s objectives for the Climate Fresk workshop:

    • Participants to learn about the fundamental science behind climate change.
    • Leave participants well-equipped to implement science-based solutions for climate change adaptation and mitigation.
    • Empower our staff and students to take action in reducing their own emissions.

    For more information about the Climate Fresk, contact the Sustainability Team: environment.sustainability@uwl.ac.uk.

  • Staff onboarding

    UWL is dedicated to encouraging active participation in sustainability among our staff. As part of the staff onboarding process, all employees are given a presentation on sustainability. The presentation provides an overview of the climate change crisis and how to improve the University's environmental performance.

    Find out more about the UWL Sustainability Staff Induction (pdf, 1.53mb)

  • Staff Sustainability Network

    UWL’s staff Sustainability Network provides a forum for those with a passion for sustainability to come together. The network supports the University’s programme to implement the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the exchange of ideas, sharing of information and adoption of practical measures. The network is open for any staff member to join, current membership stands at over 60.

  • CPD – Sustainability and climate action

    Like our students, all UWL staff have access to over 13,000 courses on LinkedIn, taught by industry experts, with many new courses added weekly. Courses provide in-depth subject detail and are made up of short videos, so you can learn an entire topic or learning path from start to finish, or simply learn how to do a specific task. There is a specific collection of courses on sustainability and climate action that has been created by the Sustainability Team.

  • Sustainability events and activities

    Throughout the year, various sustainability events and activities take place which students and staff can get involved with, from clothes swaps to canal clean up volunteer opportunities. Our Environmental Sustainability Engagement Strategy includes a summary of key activities which have taken place over the past academic year and some examples are shared below:

    Sustainability at Freshers Week

    During Freshers Week, UWL runs a campaign to raise awareness about climate change and give advice to students on how to life a sustainable lifestyle on campus and beyond. This is a great chance for students to learn more about pro-environmental behaviours.

    Plastic free July

    As part of the University’s 2024 Festival of Inclusion and Wellbeing staff were engaged through games and interactive materials, on why and how they could minimise plastic consumption both at home and on campus.

  • Support for sustainability projects

    UWL supports both students and staff to progress sustainability ideas and implement initiatives.

    UWL’s Westmont Enterprise Hub supports students, alumni and the broader community to launch and scale green enterprises. Support involves delivery of an incubation programme, access to specialist labs and facilities and investment support. A recent student-led enterprise who have received support from UWL and Westmont Enterprise Hub includes ALGI, an innovative algae-based system which purifies the air, reduces energy consumption and provides real-time data tracking of room air quality for guests and hoteliers. The University has supported the project through the provision of specialist lab access, academic support and funding development activities. The approximate value of this support is £1500). Read our article on 'UWL students' sustainable innovation impresses judges at a global event in Switzerland'.

    The University also supports sustainability projects through Knowledge Exchange seed funding of up to £3000 per project. Find out more about details on how the fund can be accessed on the Knowledge Exchange Seed Fund page. Recent sustainability projects which have received funding include the development and hosting of a conference and public-engagement event focused on promoting holistic wellbeing through meditation and plant-based eating, progression of advanced machine learning algorithms for battery state-of-charge estimation in electric vehicles, and many more.

  • Representation on key issues

    UWL recognises the importance of giving staff and students a voice on key issues which is why there is student representation on the Board of Governors, the Academic Board and a number of its committees, as well as several management groups.

    Similarly, trade unions are invited to sit on committees including the Environmental Operations Group.

  • UWLSU sustainability approach

    UWL’s Students Union (UWLSU) has a commitment to creating an environment that promotes sustainability for students. UWLSU is proud to have been awarded Green Impact “Good” in recognition of their work done to date, however, they know there is still more to do. Read more about their approach in the UWLSU Sustainability Statement.

Sustainability: on the path to net zero

Vegetables in wicker baskets at a market. Includes broccoli, green beans, courgettes, tomatoes and carrots.

Student life can be quite busy sometimes – managing your study workload, social life, commuting and any part-time jobs or volunteering you might do on the side. Trying to watch your carbon footprint or worrying about the environment on top of that might seem quite overwhelming.

But now, as the discussion of climate change, plastic waste and being sustainable becomes more relevant, it’s so much easier to try and be more eco-friendly. There are some very simple things you can do as a student, alongside your busy schedule, to be more sustainable and eco-friendly. Little changes are better than nothing and will help you create a more environmentally friendly lifestyle and enhance your career prospects!

Living more sustainably tends to encourage a healthier lifestyle too. So, here are the Top 12 Tips you could use to become greener:

  • 1. Bring a reusable cup to university

    Nothing gets you through a 9am lecture like grabbing a coffee or something hot to drink. But did you know the UK throws away around 2.5 billion disposable cups a year. Instead of contributing to that number, consider investing in a reusable mug or drinking thermos and get your coffee, tea or hot chocolate to go in one of them.

  • 2. Watch your water use

    It’s very easy to forget how important water conservation is and studies state that the demand for water globally is set to exceed supply by 40% by 2030. UWL has water fountains located across its campus sites, but there are plenty of ways you can save water, like taking shorter showers, avoiding small clothes washes, and turning all your taps off.

  • 3. Bring a reusable water bottle

    We use so much plastic from buying bottled water instead of reusing old ones when we could be carrying a more permanent solution. Did you know that an average person uses 1,460 plastic bottles per year. With average life span soaring to 80 years, you could be saving £14,000 in your lifetime with a reusable water bottle. 

  • 4. Consider taking notes electronically

    Thankfully, the world is now digitally focused, and your studies can be, too. You’ll save money (and stop wasting paper) on purchasing notebooks and flashcards if you begin to electronically take down what you need to remember in class.

  • 5. Need a weekend outfit? Try second-hand

    London is fantastic for picking up second-hand and vintage fashion, with Ealing having some great shops which you can check out! Freshers' weeks and society nights at university can mean wanting to grab a new outfit to impress but buying clothes second-hand is a lot better for the environment. If charity shops aren’t your thing, try downloading DEPOP or Vinted where others sell their clothing and accessories they no longer need.

  • 6. Forget about plastic bags

    The negative impact of plastic bags has been discussed for years and thankfully since the introduction of the 5p charge, studies reckon the sale of plastic bags has gone down. Help keep those numbers down by using reusable bags when you do your food shop! Numerous shops across London and Ealing sell reusable bags, and you will receive a reusable tote UWL branded bag so you can use it again and again without spending any money.

  • 7. Eat more veggie meals

    Although this is something that might divide opinion – scientists have stated that cutting down on meat and dairy is a guaranteed way to be more eco-friendly. Understandably, some days after a long study session you might just want a Big Mac or a cheesy pizza more than anything. However, if you want to be a bit better to the environment, try cutting down on meaty meals. There’s plenty of choices throughout Ealing and around campus to allow you to do that.

    See the Love Food Hate Waste website for more information on how you can reduce your food waste.

    See also: Six Tips to Help You Eat More Sustainably

  • 8. Save electricity

    Sources of electricity such as coal are depleting, so it’s important to be mindful of electricity use and make adaptations so we can preserve sources while we find sustainable alternatives.

    Methods of saving electricity are quite simple: don’t use unnecessary lights, unplug electronics such as chargers and printers and try to limit the use of your washing machine. Dress appropriately for the weather too to avoid unnecessarily using a fan or electric heater.

    See also: Tips for Saving Energy With Your Mobile Phone

  • 9. Only buy what you need

    Consumerism has everyone believing that we need to buy everything in the store. We as consumers spend over £1 trillion every year on goods and services, accounting for over 60% of the UK economy. By only buying what you need, you reduce waste processing because you’re not generating as much waste.

  • 10. Clear out your emails

    Although it is obvious using email prevents paper waste piling up and also helps everyone speed up important communication, but storing countless emails actually consumes energy. According to one study, if every single person in France deleted 50 emails, the energy savings would be equivalent to turning the Eiffel Tower’s lights off for 42 years. So, it’s a great idea to make a habit to clear out your junk folder every week and delete old emails when you can.

  • 11. Walk or bike more

    In addition to helping you live a healthier lifestyle, trying to cut down on driving or public transport can help the environment and save you a lot of money as well. This is a great way to eliminate fossil fuel use in the UK. There are lots of cycle hoops installed around campus to keep your bikes secure.

    If you are currently a student at UWL and are looking for ways to get more active, you could sign up for a membership at our UWLSU Sports and Fitness Centre. Plus there are many different sport and activity clubs for you to join, check the UWL Students' Union sport pages to find one that interests you. Or why not take a look at The UWLSU Moves+ is an app that rewards you for being active! It allows students to record how active they are and connect with other individuals who also want to increase their physical activity levels.

  • 12. Spread the word - caring is cool

    To protect the environment as a student is a high point in establishing a ‘cool’ reputation among other students.

    The university provides you with an opportunity like no other, and as a student you can influence others to make meaningful changes, changes we should all make in our everyday lives.

    By working with people and demonstrating the importance of the environment, we can take responsibility for our actions and make a difference.

    And be aware that businesses are becoming more environmentally conscious, so showing you’re passionate about the environment could help you land a job when you finish your degree, and it can also help build those life skills that are required when you begin working.

Sustainable food

An overhead shot of a table full of vegetables, including broccoli, leek, carrots, onions and corn.

The University maintains its responsibility to promote healthy and sustainable food to our staff, students and visitors. Our Sustainable Food Policy is focused on the provisions and procurement of food by our contract catering supplier Elior and the educational activities in the London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism. The policy is monitored annually by the Environmental Operations Group and is reviewed by the Vice-Chancellor.

We are committed to continually improving our environmental performance, especially in the area of sustainable food. The University is proud to have been awarded a 3 star Food Made Good rating by the Sustainable Restaurant Association and is also a member of the Peas Please Pledge.

Our procurement of food and suppliers is undertaken according to the University’s Procurement Policy which also includes requirements for sustainable procurement.

Biodiversity

A photo of earth taken from space.

UWL is dedicated to preserving and enhancing biodiversity, and it uses its Environmental Management System as a tool to continuously improve its environmental performance. The University is keen to share best practise management of its urban green estate, and the information provided below is useful in demonstrating how the University is protecting biodiversity.

  • What is biodiversity

    Biodiversity is the variety of life found in a specific location on Earth. This encompasses all of life, including the kingdoms of animalia, plantae, and fungi. It could be the Amazon Rainforest, the African Jungle, the Siberian Tundra, or the Australian Grasslands, but it could also be your local park, back garden, or meadow; all these systems combine to form what we call 'biodiversity.' 

    According to the ‘State of the World’s Plants and Fungi’ report produced by Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, up to 39.4% of plants are threatened with extinction, and the UK only has about half of its original biodiversity intact. The loss of biodiversity is likely to be occurring at a faster rate than botanists' ability to discover new species. 

    Biodiversity can be impacted by a variety of factors, including climatic variation, pollution, and over-exploitation, as well as simple habitat loss, particularly in large city agglomerations. The vicious cycle of biodiversity loss can be broken, if not reversed, by implementing sustainable practices throughout the food system and increasing local biodiversity levels through projects like the UWL Memorial Garden. 

  • Our food systems rely on biodiversity

    Biodiversity has an immediate impact on human life as we know it. Organisms would be unable to interact with one another and produce food for us if it did not exist. Plants, fungi, and animals all coexist in a symbiotic relationship, sometimes unconsciously, but they all contribute to and rely on their shared environment. 

    The diversity of life is also important in ensuring food and nutrition security. Sufficient agrobiodiversity (agricultural biodiversity managed by cultivators of land and food) can help to halt the progression of soil depletion and erosion, nutrient loss in edible crops, and can help to protect our food systems from other factors such as climatic changes and disease, as well as contribute to an overall balance in the natural environment. 

  • How UWL contributes to biodiversity increase

    UWL promotes increasing biodiversity through multiple sustainability initiatives and by offering a range of courses orientated around the issues that contemplate sustainability and the depletion of the Earth’s resources. 

    The Memorial Garden is a prime example of how to develop local biodiversity hubs in urban areas. The project has over 55 native plants, some of which are edible and are used by our student chefs. 

  • Inter-organisational collaboration

    UWL is also actively engaged with the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew on discovering innovative solutions for improving agrobiodiversity and the sustainability of our food systems. This collaboration was established through a PhD project entitled “Increasing Food & Nutrition Security through Diversification of the Supply Chain with Forgotten Edibles”, which involves cooperation with various enterprises and individuals from across the agricultural and food sectors, in hope of facilitating inter-sector communication for the feasible increase of agrobiodiversity.

  • What is in our Memorial Garden?

    The Memorial Garden was designed in collaboration with the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Cultivate London, and Nicola the Gardener. The purpose is to create a space for native plants, insects, and fungi, leading to increased biodiversity and thriving micro-ecosystems, for their and our survival. 

    Bug hotel: 

    We partnered with a local charity, Cultivate London, to create our custom-made bug hotel. With natural habitats under increasing pressure and many already lost or damaged, a bug hotel provides a home for insects and in return, the insects will increase biodiversity, pollinate plants, and prey on pests. We used dead wood, hollow tubes, straw and hay, dry leaves, loose barks, and cardboard to create the perfect home where small creatures can escape from predators and bad weather. 

    Flower bed: 

    Our flower beds have been custom-made with sustainable timber. Flowers have an important role in our eco-system; they feed insects, birds, animals, and humans; they provide natural medicines for humans and animals; they aid in plant reproduction by enticing bees, butterflies and pollinators. Flowers benefit the environment by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. We have a range of plants including acanthus spinosus, snowdrop anemone, astrantia, male fern, Echinacea purpurea, and hellebore. We have displayed signs made from sustainable wood that have the origin, Latin and common name for each plant. 

    Edible food garden:

    Our vegetable and fruit beds have been custom-made with sustainable timber. Food grown locally is more nutritious and better for the environment. We have planted thyme, rosemary, mint, oregano, broad beans, garlic, strawberries, raspberry, blackcurrant, and blackberries. 

    Bird houses: 

    Our birdhouses have been sourced from the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and are all made from environmentally friendly FSC timber. Birdhouses provide a safe place for birds to build their nests, protected from the elements and predators. In the winter months, they give visiting birds a place to snuggle together for warmth away from the cold air. Birds are important members of many ecosystems. They play a vital role in controlling pests, acting as pollinators, and maintaining island ecology, relevant to the UK. In addition, birds are important to humans in many ways, such as serving as a source of food and providing fertiliser in agricultural settings. 

    Bat houses: 

    Our bat boxes have been sourced from the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and are all made from environmentally friendly FSC timber. Bats play an important role in the ecosystem as they pollinate plants and need a safe place to roost and raise their young. Interesting fact: bat droppings are full of nutrients and are good as a fertiliser. 

    Seed bank: 

    Globally, it is estimated that 40% of plant species are vulnerable to extinction. A seed bank is a form of insurance; a way of maximising the number of plant species we can save from this fate. Seed banks are therefore crucial in fighting food poverty. Our seed bank has been hand-made using sustainable and weatherproof wood to ensure durability for the future. 

Energy, water and waste

The decarbonisation project reduces the University’s gas consumption down by 95% and the majority of our heating is provided by electric ground and air source heat pumps across our estate.

  • Waste

    The University is committed to implementing best practice in environmental management in order to improve its sustainability performance.

    This includes addressing key environmental impacts areas such as carbon emissions associated to waste volumes.

    As a large institution, it is inevitable that the University generates waste as a result of its operation.

  • Water

    The University is committed to becoming a net-zero carbon campus by 2030. This requires us to reduce water consumption and increase water efficiency.

    Over the last couple of years, the University has invested in upgraded its water infrastructure which includes the installation of sensor taps in high usage areas. However, there is still a lot of work needed to reduce carbon emissions associated with water usage down to zero.

    The University will be working on developing a new water strategy to identify measures that will reduce water consumption and deliver a net zero carbon campus.

    We are also committed to providing free drinking water to staff and students. Please use the water fountains located throughout our campus sites and help us to reduce single-use plastics on site.

    Ways to reduce water consumption

    • Only use the water you need and do not waste it. Ensure taps are turned off. Don't overfill kettles or let taps run when they are not being used. Only boil the amount of water you need to have a hot drink.
    • Report all leaks that you see to Helpdesk - the costs of leaving a dripping or leaking tap, even for a few days are high.
    • If your Department has any push taps, check the timings to ensure that they are not left running for too long.
    • Avoid running the tap until the water runs cold - collect and use to water plants or keep it in a reusable bottle in the fridge so you always have access to cool drinking water.
    • Let your grass grow – this provides shade for the soil and helps retain water.

  • Ways to be energy efficient

    • All computers and monitors can be shut down especially when you go for a short break.
    • TV screens and departmental controlled AV equipment can be switched off.
    • Switch off personal printers at the socket.
    • Any shared or network printers can be switched off and ensure sleep modes are enabled.
    • Turn off all non-essential equipment at the plug.
    • Equipment left on standby can still consume energy so switch off at the socket.
    • Switch off lights whenever you are the last to leave – never assume somebody else will do it.
    • Turn down thermostatic radiator valves.
    • Switch off portable heaters and fans at the socket.
    • When boiling the kettle, use only the water that you need.
    • Ensure all windows and doors are shut firmly.
    • Check all refrigerator doors are sealed and shut.
    • Shut the sash on fume cupboards when not in use.

  • Too Good To Go

    In collaboration with Elior, the University is a member of the Too Good To Go initiative that enables students and staff to purchase surplus food at the end of the day at reduced prices which supports reducing food waste and also helps with the current issues around potential food poverty.

    • Speak to a member of staff at The Heart for more information about Too Good To Go

Recycling

By putting the right waste in the correct bin, you will be playing your part by diverting waste going into landfill to reduce negative environmental impact. You will also play an important role in increasing our recycling rate.

Throughout our campus, you will see bins with 3 different coloured signs; green, grey and red.

  • Green

    Put all mixed recyclable waste items (paper, cardboard, cans, and plastics) in the green bin. Remember to empty all content (food and liquid) before placing it in the bin, otherwise, it will contaminate the whole bin bag and all the items that could have been recycled will end up going to landfill.

    Green mixed recycling sign.

  • Grey

    Put all other waste, excluding mixed recyclables, in the grey general waste bin. All items contaminated by food and liquid such as coffee cups, lids, paper food containers, and wrappers should go in the grey bin.

    General waste grey/white sign.

  • Red

    Put all food waste in the red bin. All our food waste is incinerated to make energy that is then used to power many residents’ homes in the UK.

    Food waste red sign.

  • Green

    Put all mixed recyclable waste items (paper, cardboard, cans, and plastics) in the green bin. Remember to empty all content (food and liquid) before placing it in the bin, otherwise, it will contaminate the whole bin bag and all the items that could have been recycled will end up going to landfill.

    Green mixed recycling sign.

  • Grey

    Put all other waste, excluding mixed recyclables, in the grey general waste bin. All items contaminated by food and liquid such as coffee cups, lids, paper food containers, and wrappers should go in the grey bin.

    General waste grey/white sign.

  • Red

    Put all food waste in the red bin. All our food waste is incinerated to make energy that is then used to power many residents’ homes in the UK.

    Food waste red sign.

Travel

University of West London shuttle bus outside Paragon House

Our locations in the London boroughs of Ealing and Brentford are served by excellent public transport links and there is a range of sustainable transport options available to both regular and occasional visitors to our sites.

We encourage all students, staff, and visitors to choose walking, cycling, and public transport when travelling to our sites for work and study. These remain the most environmentally friendly and healthy forms of transport.

To help reduce the detrimental effect of cars on the environment, car parking on our sites is restricted. Please note that parking is not available for visitors and students before 5pm (unless by prior arrangement).

  • Information for cyclists

    The University has facilities to encourage staff and students to cycle regularly between our campuses. We have a high number of cycle storage racks as well as shower facilities across our campus in St. Mary’s Road, Paragon House, and Fountain House. 

  • Schemes to promote sustainable travel

    The University offers several travel measures and schemes to staff and students, including: 

    • Season ticket loans: we provide interest-free loans for season tickets to promote the use of public transport for travelling to the University.
    • Cycle-to-work scheme: this scheme enables you to save up to 42% on the cost of a bike.

  • Our shuttle bus service

    The University provides a free shuttle bus service for students and staff between Ealing Broadway station and our Ealing and Brentford sites.

  • Car parking

    There are a very limited number of parking spaces available at our campuses. Staff parking is offered on a first-come, first-served basis and staff must be in possession of a valid parking permit. Blue badge holders may park at any time and students with disabilities who are not blue-badge holders should contact Student Services in the first instance. 

    Please note that parking is not available for visitors and students before 5pm (unless by prior arrangement). Visiting Blue Badge holders should contact the Facilities Helpdesk prior to coming to campus.

Get involved

There are many ways for members of the UWL community to support our sustainability initiatives – both through events on campus and in your everyday activities.

A few examples of our recent environmental sustainability events included:

More information about our events can be found on our News section.

Reduce environmental impact with energy efficiency, water efficiency, sustainable travel, sustainable food, and through our Students' Union's Sustainability Network where you can take more action to implement sustainability initiatives at the University.

Find out more