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Our approach

Introducing the Way to Sustainable

At the heart of our university’s purpose lies the imperative to search for answers to the world’s most complex questions, and to share the knowledge we gain so that we contribute to creating a fairer, better world for all.

Warwick’s Strategy 2030 presents a vision for the University as we build into the future, committing us to excellence with purpose; to having a positive impact on society. Our strategy commits us to growth and embeds sustainable development into our strategic plans and activities, so we must find better ways of operating to ensure our growth is environmentally sustainable.

If we are to be credible global citizens and leaders, we need to be prepared to roll up our sleeves, get involved and prove that change can happen. We accept that no one person, group, or organisation has all the answers, and the journey to a sustainable future will be unpredictable and demanding. But it is a path we must take, and we all must work together. We’re calling Warwick’s approach to sustainability ‘the Way to Sustainable’, a name that reflects our collective journey of continuous improvement and the important elements of curiosity, learning, engagement, collaborative planning, and action needed to achieve the most effective outcomes.

We will realise our way to sustainable in a number of ways: as a comprehensive research-intensive university, we are passionate about exploring sustainable solutions to regional, national, and global challenges; we will educate the leaders of the future, empowering them with the knowledge, skills, and experience to embed sustainability into their personal and professional lives; and we will work to ensure continuous improvement in how we operate our campus sustainably. We will work with local and regional communities, industries, and government officials at all levels, to have an impact on planetary sustainability. We believe there is nothing global without local, and every impact, be it from an individual or a collective, counts.

Our ambition is that every member of the Warwick community, our partners, and our networks join us as we work together to find ways to be more sustainable. We believe the key to getting there will be to find the right balance between providing clear leadership, enabling cooperation, and listening to others. We need to inspire and be inspired, to take a practical approach to problem-solving, be prepared to be always listening and always learning, be willing to tackle the wicked problems together, and to continuously evolve by doing.

Let us all embrace the challenges that lie ahead and work together as we build for a more sustainable future for ourselves, and for future generations.

Professor Stuart Croft, Vice Chancellor