The University recently hosted its annual Making a Difference Awards ceremony, celebrating the inspiring social responsibility achievements made by staff, students, alumni and external partners. Among the winners and highly commended entries were several projects focusing on good practice and innovation within environmental sustainability.  

Special congratulations go to the Lab Goods 4 Reuse team, who were highly commended for their outstanding contribution to environmental sustainability. Led by the FBMH Technical Operations team, this homegrown initiative has played a key role in promoting sustainability in FBMH laboratories by helping researchers to reduce waste, reuse resources and free up valuable space in lab areas. 

Another winner was the Ardwick Green Route, led by FBMH academic Sheena Cruickshank. Working closely with residents in the local community of Ardwick, Sheena and the team have designed a green walking route to tackle the issues posed by high rates of air pollution.  

Other awardees commended for their impact on environmental sustainability include Biko Bikes, the IT Kit Amnesty and the Sustainable as Students project. Led by a group of students, Biko Bikes promote sustainable transport and healthy lifestyles by providing affordable bike rental schemes and repair services for students. Sustainable as Students is a campaign targeted at students living in halls – by encouraging responsible consumption and waste management, the project has led to a reduction in general waste by 13.67% over two years. Meanwhile, the IT Kit Amnesty has enabled staff and students to recycle unwanted IT equipment on campus by reclaiming and redistributing serviceable kit and disposing of e-waste sustainably.  

Finally, Lee Barlow was recognised for his contribution to negotiations that have seen the University enter a landmark Corporate Power Purchasing Agreement (cPPA) with clean energy firm Enviromena, securing 65% of its electricity from the new Medebridge solar farm in Essex. The initiative is central to the University’s commitment to achieving zero direct carbon emissions by 2038.  

Congratulations to all – and keep up the great work! For the full list of winners and highly commended recipients, visit the Making a Difference Awards webpage. 

Find out more: 

• IT Amnesty Week in Review 

• Success for FBMH laboratory equipment rehoming initiative – LabGoods4Reuse 

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