Sustainability
Who are we?
The Energy and Sustainability TeamLink opens in a new window is here to help you make positive choices for the environment. Our team draws on the expertise of our students, staff, and the wider community, to find solutions to environmental challenges, and to foster a culture of responsibility and sustainability.
We're dedicated to raising awareness, reducing our carbon emissions and overall environmental impact, and to becoming a Nature Positive campus. Sustainability at Warwick is underpinned by our Environmental Sustainability Strategy and Energy Strategy.Link opens in a new window
From the energy we use to how we travel, what we consume and how we manage waste, every choice matters. Find out how you can make real change happen below.
Keep in touch
Follow us on InstagramLink opens in a new window, FacebookLink opens in a new window and LinkedIn Link opens in a new windowfor more information on what the University is doing and how you can get involved.
If you have any ideas for environmental improvements throughout the year, email sustainability@warwick.ac.uk.
Be a recycling hero
Every item you recycle helps us build a more sustainable campus, and we need your help. In your kitchen, you'll find clearly labelled bins for dry mixed recycling (clean or rinsed cans, plastic bottles and food containers and clean paper and cardboard), general waste as well as separate bins for glass and food waste.
At the moment, we recycle 31% of waste from student accommodation, and with your support we can do even better. Check what goes where and help us reduce waste by viewing the full list of recyclable itemsLink opens in a new window.
When it's time to move out at the end of the academic year, please don't throw away items you no longer need. If you can't take them home, donate them through our Donation Drive, where they'll support local charities and help incoming students settle into university life.
You can also make use of the Community Fridge, stocked with surplus food from Eatwise outlets across campus. It's a great way to reduce food waste, and if you'd like to get involved, you can volunteer with the project too.
Staying hydrated
Tap water is safe to drink throughout the UK, so there's no need to buy bottled water. Bring a reusable bottle and refill it at any drinking water tap or one of the dedicated refill points across campus. You can find all refill locations on the interactive campus map.
Choosing a reusable bottle makes a real difference: globally, fewer than 30% of PET plastic bottles are recycled, meaning the majority are sent to landfill, incinerated, or end up polluting the environment.
Be more energy friendly
Want to reduce your carbon footprint and become more energy-efficientLink opens in a new window? Small changes to your daily routine can have a big impact. Start by turning off lights and appliances when you're the last to leave a room, and only boil the amount of water you actually need. You can also try shortening your showers - cutting just one minute can save 8 - 13 litres of water, which adds up to around 25 full bathtubs over a year. These simple actions help lower energy use and protect the planet, one habit at a time.
Participate, learn and win
Take simple, sustainable actions, track your impact, and win real prizes. The Warwick Green RewardsLink opens in a new window platform makes it easy and fun to build greener habits every day.
You can also complete our Climate Literacy Training to learn more about the climate crisis and the actions you can take, earning a certificate on completion. Looking to get more involved? Join the Student Green Champion network to volunteer on sustainability projects, develop new skills, and help make a difference across campus.
Stay connected
There are plenty of ways to get involved - from taking part in biodiversity events like species surveys (hedgehogs, birds, small mammals) and guided Biodiversity Walks, to supporting circular economy initiatives such as our Repair Cafe.
However you choose to get involved, your actions count. Check our events calendarLink opens in a new window regularly to see what’s coming up and find your next opportunity to make an impact.