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Sustainability Communications Placement

What are compliance obligations and why do they matter?

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Each year, Newcastle University undergoes an external audit to ensure that our Environmental Management System (EMS) and Energy Management System (EnMS) meet the requirements of the ISO 14001 and ISO 50001 standards. These audits are rooted in our list of compliance obligations (COs). In this blog, we will explore what compliance obligations are, some examples, and how they affect the wider University community. 

What are compliance obligations? 

Compliance obligations are described by ISO as: 

“Legal requirements that an organization has to comply with and any other requirements that an organization has to or chooses to comply with” 

The University has a register of environmental and energy commitments it must adhere to, like those required by the law and others which are voluntary. We work with Barbour EHS, a consultancy that provides compliance and information services, to help us keep our obligations register up-to-date, especially when new legislation comes into place. 

During the external audit, auditors review the list of compliance obligations and assess how these requirements are being met. Failure to comply with these obligations could result in the University losing its ISO accreditation. 

What are some examples of compliance obligations? 

The concept may sound rather abstract, so here are some examples of obligations on our register. 

As you can see, many of the obligations link back to our key themes, looking at carbon, water, waste and biodiversity. This highlights how compliance obligations serve not just as checkboxes, but as practical drivers of environmental action across departments. 

Nature Positive Universities is just one of many voluntary obligations we’ve committed to, alongside our Net Zero targets, membership to the EAUC, participation in the People & Planet University League, the Race to Zero campaign, the SDG Accord, and the Concordat for the Environmental Sustainability of Research and Innovation Practice. 

How do we integrate compliance obligations into our work? 

Compliance obligations guide how we plan, implement, and monitor environmental and energy practices across campus. The process usually begins with changes in legislation or voluntary initiatives, which are then translated into internal actions. These updates are reviewed during both internal and external audits, helping us track progress and identify areas for improvement. 

For example, when the Simpler Recycling legislation came into play in March 2025, we responded by reviewing how waste was being managed in all areas of campus, especially student accommodation. This led to collaboration with our waste contractor, Biffa, to introduce food waste bins and expand glass recycling across key locations. These operational changes directly support compliance obligations related to waste segregation and management. Auditors can assess these during their visits and may even offer feedback in the form of an OFI (Opportunity for Improvement), which helps us refine our systems further. 

How are students and colleagues involved? 

From the table above, you can see that COs extend the scope of the Sustainability Team’s work – we work closely with colleagues across the University to meet them. Everybody at the University plays a role in meeting environmental responsibilities. From Estates designing efficient building systems and maintaining green spaces, to individuals recycling correctly and using energy efficiently in their workspaces, everyone plays a key role in our EMS and EnMS. 

COs are all over, even when you may not notice. For instance, most University buildings have an environmental noticeboard near their entrances, displaying Display Energy Certificates, required under the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations. 

Students are also a key part of this process. Under the Waste Duty of Care Code of Practice, waste producers (including students in accommodations) are responsible for sorting their waste correctly. Additionally, by completing travel surveys, both students and colleagues are contributing to voluntary efforts aligned with the Road Traffic Reduction Act 1997 and the Transport Act 2000. 

From waste and water to biodiversity and transport, compliance obligations influence many day-to-day decisions at the University. They help ensure we’re not only meeting legislation but actively working toward a more sustainable campus.  

If you’d like to find out more about our environmental and energy management systems, read our blog, or check out our webpage. For any sustainability queries, please email us at sustainable-campus@newcastle.ac.uk 

Clean Air Day 2025

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Thursday 19th June 2025 marks Clean Air Day, the UK’s largest campaign dedicated to tackling air pollution. Coordinated by Global Action Plan, this day brings communities, schools, workplaces and decision-makers together to raise national awareness and advocate for clean, healthy air. 

Why Air Pollution Matters 

Air pollution is now recognised by both the UK Government and the World Health Organisation (WHO) as the “biggest environmental threat to public health in the UK.”  Air pollution is linked to heart and lung diseases, low birth weight, stunted lung development in children, and even potential mental health impacts. 

It’s estimated that air pollution contributes to up to 43,000 premature deaths every year in the UK alone. That’s why campaigns like Clean Air Day are so important – they shine a spotlight on the issue and push for solutions. 

Image: Clean Air Day posters promoting actions like working from home and active travel alternatives. (Source: Global Action Plan, 2025).

The Pollution Problem 

Transport is the single largest contributor of greenhouse gas emissions in the UK, with cars and vans being the primary sources. As we continue to rely heavily on petrol and diesel vehicles, we release harmful pollutants such as: 

  • Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂) – a gas produced from fuel combustion in engines 
  • Particulate Matter (PM) – tiny airborne particles, often released from tyres and brakes, that can penetrate deep into our lungs 

In densely populated urban areas, diesel vehicles alone can be responsible for up to 70% of air pollution (Living Streets, 2025). Reducing this dependence on polluting transport is critical for the health of our cities and our people. 

Air Quality in the North East 

In Newcastle, air pollution is monitored closely under the Environment Act 1995, with nine major pollutants assessed annually. The biggest concern locally remains Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂), from road traffic. To monitor air quality and ensure compliance with national air quality standards, the city has established several automatic monitoring stations in four areas: Jesmond Road, St. Mary’s Place, Percy Street and Pilgrim Street.  

Image: Air quality monitoring sites in Newcastle showing where NO₂, PM₁₀, and PM₂.₅ are measured. 

These monitoring stations provide valuable data to help Newcastle City Council take action where pollution levels risk exceeding safe limits, protecting residents and the environment alike. 

What You Can Do 

Everyone has a part to play in cleaning up the air we breathe. Here are a few impactful steps you can take: 

  • Write to your MP: Let them know you support investment in clean air and green transport. 
  • Use public transport: Buses and trains produce fewer emissions per person than cars. 
  • Walk or cycle when you can: It’s better for your health and the planet. 
  • Avoid idling your engine: Even a few minutes of idling contributes to unnecessary pollution. 
  • Talk about it: Share the campaign with friends, family and colleagues. 

Final Thoughts 

Clean Air Day is a great opportunity to celebrate the positive steps we can take toward cleaner, healthier air. Whether it’s changing how we travel or supporting local action, every effort helps build a healthier future for everyone. 

\To find out more about the actions Newcastle University is taking to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency, check out our dedicated Carbon and Energy pages.

If you have any questions or want to get involved, please don’t hesitate to contact the Sustainable Campus team at sustainable-campus@newcastle.ac.uk

How Newcastle University’s CHP Plant is Driving Campus Decarbonisation 

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In January 2024, a new Combined Heat and Power unit (CHP) was installed in the Merz Court Energy Centre, a powerful and efficient plant room tucked away in the building’s basement. Recognising its impressive potential, the University saw an opportunity to divert excess energy to the Stephenson Building. Since then, the CHP has become an integral component in our Net Zero strategy…

Image: Entrance of the Merz Court building, home to electrical and electronic engineering (and the CHP unit of course!)

CHP and the Stephenson Redevelopment 

To ensure sustainability was considered at every step of the Stephenson renovation, a Low and Zero Carbon Assessment (LZC) was carried out in the early planning stages. The assessment looked at a variety of scenarios, comparing a business-as-usual approach to an alternative scenario using renewable energy generation. Eventually, it was decided that, in line with our Climate Action Plan, Stephenson would primarily receive its heating from the CHP district network.  

CHP and Environmental Impact 

In its simplest terms, the CHP plant is a large engine that burns biofuel. The engine is connected to a generator which makes electricity to enter the University electricity distribution network. The heat created by this process is recovered and fed into the district heating network. 

Therefore, the CHP plant is more environmentally friendly than traditional systems in a few ways: 

  1. Natural gas power stations which supply the national grid generally do not recover heat, whereas the CHP plant preserves and recirculates produced heat 
  1. The biofuel is a certified renewable fuel resulting in significant reductions in our greenhouse gas emissions. The CHP generates and distributes electricity and heat to nearby buildings – reducing the transmission losses associated with a traditional ‘grid supplied’ distribution model.  

Image: The CHP unit located in the Merz Court Energy Centre. Inside the container is essentially a large engine, running off biofuel.

The District Heating Network 

Currently, the CHP is fully installed and undergoing final testing and commissioning. An array of underground pipes has connected the plant to the following buildings: 

  • Old Library Building 
  • Percy Building 
  • Henry Daysh Building 
  • Stephenson Building 
  • Cassie Building 

In recent months, the network has also been connected to the King’s Road Boiler House, extending the CHP heating network to five more buildings: 

  • Armstrong Building 
  • Bedson Building 
  • Boiler House Event Space 
  • Hadrian Building 
  • King George VI Building 

The CHP will become the lead heat source for these buildings, with natural gas boilers being used to ‘top-up’ the heat supplied by the CHP.  

Current Projections 

After tests have been completed, the CHP will generate 850 kW of electricity, which equates to approximately 10% of the University’s daytime load or around 25% of our overnight load. About 1000kW of heat is also produced – this heat is recovered and fed into the University’s district heating system. 

The Future of CHP 

As we enter the final commissioning stage, we expect CHP system to be fully operational in time for the next heating season.  

Recently, we applied for funding from the Green Heat Network Fund to extend our heat network to Kensington and Park Terrace student residences and the Drummond Building, with a decision expected this summer. If successful, this funding will enable the integration of an additional renewable energy source (Air Source Heat Pumps) to our network, further reducing the carbon intensity of our heating systems.  

The recently launched Estates Optimisation project will also play a vital role in supporting these developments through smarter use of space and infrastructure. This project also includes the development of the University’s Net Zero Strategy, shaping the business case for future heat network extensions and identifying specific ways to reduce energy use and deliver further increases in the generation of renewable energy across campus. 

Celebrating Bike Week 2025!

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From Monday 12th May to Wednesday 14th May, Bike Week took place in the Boiler House. The event was hosted by the Sustainability Team in collaboration with WATBike and Cycling UK. Each day, colleagues and students could be seen queuing up outside the venue, bikes in hand, ready for servicing. Read on to find out more about Bike Week, its outreach, and what our campus cyclists said…

Image: The Bike Week set-up on day one, taken a few minutes before the crowds arrived.

Event Lineup

Across the duration of the event, WATBike offered three services each day:

  • Dr Bike – Free bike check-ups
  • Second-hand Bike Sale – Affordable pre-loved bikes
  • Maintenance Advice – Handy tips from cycling experts

Thanks to generous funding from Cycling UK, all services were completely free of charge!

A Successful Outcome

We’re delighted to report that Bike Week was a huge success. A total of 58 bikes were serviced by Dr Bike, 17 pre-loved bikes found new homes, and many students and colleagues left with practical tips for keeping their bikes in top shape.

Here is what one Bike Week attendee had to say:

“This was really useful, thank you to all for hosting and organising the event. The advice and help I received on Wednesday was brilliant.”

Bike Week was also a hit on social media earning a spot on the @NewcastleUni Instagram story and amassing 12,000 views!

Image: A collection of bikes waiting to be repaired by the helpful WATBike team.

University Cycling Services

Did you know that Dr Bike takes place every fortnight? Our next session is taking place at Devonshire Walk on Tuesday 27th May. If you want to add upcoming Dr Bikes to your diary, please refer to the Dr Bike 2025 events page.

Alternatively, if you want weekly reminders of upcoming events, you can join our Bicycle Users Group on Teams. To join, just email us at sustainable-campus@newcastle.ac.uk with the subject title “Join BUG.”

If you’re searching for more tips on storage, cleaning and repairing your bike, read our Bike Maintenance Blog

Thank you to everyone who got involved and helped make Bike Week such a success. More cycling events are coming soon – watch this space for updates!

Leave Newcastle Happy: Your Guide to Moving Out Sustainably

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As the academic year draws to a close, the time has come to face the moving-out process. From quirky costumes to forgotten kitchen gadgets, it can feel like you’ve accumulated twice as much as you brought. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with simple, sustainable solutions for clearing out your space. 

Thanks to our Move-Out Map, it’s easier than ever to find donation and recycling points near you for clothing, houseware, books, and more. 

  1. Clothing 

If your clothes are in good condition, consider donating them to a local charity shop. Some popular areas for charity shopping include: 

  • Clayton Street, Central Newcastle 
  • Gosforth High Street 
  • Shield’s Road, Byker 
  • Chillingham Road, Heaton 
  • Whitley Bay High Street 

For clothing that is no longer wearable, use one of the many clothing donation banks located throughout Newcastle. There is a donation bank outside the Students’ Union building. Location What3Words: ///grit.herbs.saving 

  1. Houseware (ResLife ReHome) 

Newcastle University’s ResLife ReHome initiative allows students to donate clean, good-quality items for reuse. These items are collected, sorted, and re-distributed to new students at the start of the next academic year to help reduce waste and promote a culture of sharing. 

Key dates:

  • Donation collection: 28 April – 15 June 2025 
  • Sorting and movement: 28 April – 18 June 2025 
  • Distribution to new students: 8 – 14 September 2025 
  • Passport to Independent Living event (if stock remains): 16 September 2025 

Items accepted include: 

  • Kitchenware (pots, pans, trays, cutlery, crockery) 
  • Stationery and unused kitchen supplies 
  • Clothes airers, washing baskets, coat hangers 
  • Decorative items (in line with accommodation policy) 
  • UK-appropriate coats, wellies 
  • Cleaning products, unused toiletries 
  • Non-perishable food 
  • Educational or cookbooks 
  • Small electricals in good condition 

Visit the to Move-Out Map to find your nearest ResLife ReHome donation point. 

  1. Books 

Better World Books has a donation box located in the entrance foyer of the Marjorie Robinson Library Rooms. Books donated here support literacy and education initiatives around the world. Accepted items include: 

  • Fiction and nonfiction 
  • Rare books and children’s books 
  • Textbooks 
  • Foreign language books with an ISBN 

Items not accepted:

  • Encyclopaedias (e.g. Britannica) 
  • Procedural law books, indexes, or directories 
  • Journals and periodicals 
  • Books in non-Latin scripts 
  • Unsellable or damaged books 
  • More than 20 copies of the same title 

For bulk donations, please email: sustainable-campus@newcastle.ac.uk 

Community Bookshelf – Students’ Union 
Located on Level 2 in the Student Cluster of the Students’ Union, this is a free, informal book swap open to all students. 
More information: nusu.co.uk/news/article/community-bookshelf 

  1. Non-recyclables (Leave Newcastle Happy) 

Unfortunately, not all items can be safely recycled or donated. Because of this, Newcastle University has partnered with Northumbria University and Newcastle City Council to launch the annual “Leave Newcastle Happy” campaign. We are putting out Biffa skips in the back lanes of Heaton and Jesmond for students to dispose of their non-recyclable items. Here is the list of locations and dates: 

Please avoid putting the following items in the skip:

  • Waste Electronic Electrical Equipment  
  • Fridges/Freezers   
  • Mattresses Tyres   
  • Paint Cans/Tins   
  • TV’s/Monitors   
  • Asbestos   
  • Clinical/Medical Waste   
  • Oils 
  • Liquids   
  • Solvents   
  • Batteries   
  • Plasterboard   
  • Hazardous/Toxic Materials   
  • Gas Cylinders 

Moving out doesn’t have to mean throwing everything away. By donating, rehoming, and recycling where possible, you’re helping reduce landfill waste, support others, and contribute to a more sustainable Newcastle. 

If you have any questions, please email us on sustainable-campus@newcastle.ac.uk 

Think Globally, Act Locally: How Newcastle is Joining the Fashion Revolution

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Fashion Revolution is an organisation that formed in 2013, following the Rana Plaza factory disaster. Since then, it has grown to become the world’s largest fashion activism movement, reaching over 80 countries worldwide. The movement challenges the fashion industry’s exploitative systems and pushes for a future that prioritises people and the planet. Through campaigns, education and community action, the movement helps people understand the issues in fashion and take steps to drive change. 

Fashion Revolution Week is taking place from Tuesday 22nd April till Sunday 27th April 2025. This year, the theme is “Think globally and act locally,” encouraging us to reflect on how we can all play a part in transforming fashion, wherever we are. In this blog, we’ll explore what that looks like here in Newcastle – from local initiatives to simple everyday actions you can take to be part of the Fashion Revolution. 

  1. Buy second-hand 

Buying pre-loved items has become a growing trend amongst conscious consumers not just to save money, but as a way to resist fast fashion. By 2027, the global second-hand apparel market is expected to grow 3 times than the global apparel market overall (ThredUP, 2023). Second-hand shopping reduces waste, extends the life of clothing, and lowers your carbon footprint.  

Here in Newcastle, the second-hand scene is thriving, with vintage shops, charity stores, and markets offering everything from upcycled hoodies to retro handbags. Some charity shop hotspots include: 

  • Clayton Street, Central Newcastle 
  • Gosforth High Street, Gosforth 
  • Shield’s Road, Byker 
  • Chillingham Road, Heaton 
  • Whitley Bay High Street (if you fancy a trip on the Metro) 

It is also worth checking out the following:  

  • Durham Vintage host a stall in the Quayside Market every Sunday, and host frequent warehouse sales 
  • Ginger’s Flea Market is an annual flea market held in the Boiler Shop. The event is taking place on Sunday 4th May. 
  • Vintage Vera is ran in the Newcastle Student Union Basement and contains endless racks of jumpers, jeans and t-shirts. Their next event is on Thursday 8th May.  
  • Green Heart Collective, based in Team Valley, stocks a vibrant mix of retro fashion and pieces made from sustainable fibres like bamboo and organic cotton. They also have refill stations and reuse packaging materials as part of their wider commitment to sustainability. 

Shopping second-hand locally ties directly into this year’s theme of thinking globally and acting locally. When unsold clothing in the UK is shipped abroad – often to countries in the Global South – it can overwhelm local markets and contribute to growing textile waste dumps (WRAP, 2017). By supporting second-hand fashion here in Newcastle, we help slow down that cycle and reduce the burden on communities elsewhere. 

  1. Repurpose older items 

Another way to easily extend the life of a clothing item is by upcycling, tailoring or mending your existing items. There are many alteration businesses dotted around Newcastle, including StarStitch , located on Saville Row. From installing a new zipper, to mending tears, your favourite items will easily be revived for a fraction of their original price. 

Alternatively, if you don’t feel like visiting a tailor, there are plenty of local groups designed to help you harness your DIY sewing skills. Here are a few ideas: 

  • The Baltic Sewing Bee takes place every Thursday, bringing together a network of keen sewers who can help you with any small sewing projects 
  • Hut on the Green is in Gosforth Central Park and teach sewing classes, as well as a range of other creative workshops 

By repairing and reusing, we reduce our impact on the global fashion system while supporting skills and sustainability in our own community. For some easy and trendy upcycling tips, check out our other sustainable fashion blog. 

Image: Nestled between the shrubbery of Gosforth Central Park, Hut on the Green, offers sewing classes for beginners (Source: Chronicle Live). 

  1. Swap don’t shop 

Clothing swaps are a fun, free, and sustainable way to refresh your wardrobe without buying anything new. By trading clothes you no longer wear for something new-to-you, you extend the life of garments and help reduce demand for fast fashion. There are a few swap points around Newcastle including: 

  • The People’s Exchange in Ouseburn allow you to “Shop, Swap or Drop” old garments. If you bring in a batch of items, you can earn a percentage of their resale value or receive store credit to spend on something new. 
  • Northumbria University have two upcoming swap shop events at their Student’s Union. The next even is taking place on Wednesday the 30th of April. 
  • The Magic Hat Cafe has recently held swap shops, usually on the weekend. Keep an eye on their page for any upcoming events! 

Like upcycling and mending, clothing swaps keep clothes in circulation and out of landfill – a simple way to act locally while thinking globally. Plus, attending swap groups is a great way to connect with fellow fashion-lovers in your community. 

Image: A vibrant clothing rack on display at one of the many popular Swap Shop events hosted by Northumbria Students’ Union. (Source: Northumbria Students’ Union Facebook). 

Fashion Revolution Week is a great time to remind ourselves of the meaningful action we can take right here in Newcastle. These small, local choices ripple outward, challenging the fast fashion system and reducing its impact on people and the planet. If everyone took up one of the three solutions mentioned above, we can reshape the fashion industry into one that values longevity over trend-chasing. 

Thank you so much for reading! If you are interested in Fashion Revolution, you can subscribe to their newsletter here. For more information on what we do to be sustainable at Newcastle University, see our webpage or contact us at sustainable-campus@ncl.ac.uk 

To learn more about the issues surrounding textile waste dumps, visit The OR Foundation; you can also explore the Speak Volumes campaign, which challenges global systems of waste colonialism, and the Clean Clothes Campaign, which advocates for the rights of fast fashion workers. 

References: 

https://www.wrap.ngo/sites/default/files/2020-10/WRAP-valuing-our-clothes-the-cost-of-uk-fashion_WRAP.pdf

https://cf-assets-tup.thredup.com/resale_report/2023/thredUP_2023_Resale_Report_FINAL.pdf

What is Newcastle University doing to achieve Net-Zero?

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As a world-leading institution, Newcastle University has always recognised its responsibility to protect the natural environment – whether through large-scale sustainability initiatives like the Climate Action Plan, or through trailblazing research on marine biomes, extreme weather, and more…

The Sustainability Team at Newcastle University was launched in 2006, and the team’s remit has grown ever since! There are now eight key themes that their work focuses on, including waste, travel, biodiversity and carbon. Their work ranges from large-scale infrastructure projects, to engaging colleagues and students through events and certifications.

Read on to find out about some of the major developments facilitating decarbonisation on campus, ran by the Sustainability Team in collaboration with colleagues in Estates & Facilities and across the University.

Declaring a Climate Emergency

Newcastle University declared a climate emergency in 2019, becoming the second UK university to do so. This declaration was influenced by increasing public discourse on climate change, spurred by activist movements such as Fridays for Future and the work of Greta Thunberg.

By 2021, in response to mounting scientific research and national policy developments – such as the UK government’s legally binding net-zero target for 2050 – the University accelerated its own carbon reduction target from 2040 to 2030. A key step towards this commitment also included full divestment of endowment funds from fossil fuel industries.

Image: Drone shot of the Urban Sciences Building, one of many buildings with solar panels and a green roof over its Atrium. Source: Matt Horne.

Climate Action Plan and Net-Zero Target

The University’s net-zero target includes both our direct emissions from on-campus sources like gas boilers and fleet vehicles (known as Scope 1 emissions) and indirect emissions from purchased energy such as electricity and steam (Scope 2 emissions).

Scope 3 emissions, which encompass travel and procurement, are currently excluded from the 2030 target because of less robust methodologies and reporting. Nevertheless, efforts to address Scope 3 are ongoing, including engaging with supply chains and conducting travel surveys.

The Climate Action Plan outlines key strategies, including reducing energy consumption, increasing renewable energy generation and transitioning away from fossil fuels.

Solar Photovoltaics on Campus

In 2023, Phase 1 of the University Solar Photovoltaics (PV) project began. As a city-centre campus, we have limited space for solar panels. Rooftop installations provide an ideal solution, maximizing sunlight exposure without taking up valuable ground space.

Phase 1 concluded in 2024, with the installation of panels on the Cochrane Park Sports Pavilion, the fourteenth building to support solar PV. Other buildings covered by Phase 1 included:

  • Frederick Douglas Centre
  • Urban Sciences Building
  • The Catalyst
  • Park View Student Village (6 buildings)
  • Sports Centre (2 buildings)
  • Philip Robinson Library
  • Henry Daysh Building

Over a period  of less than two years, the panels have generated 71.5 MWh of electricity and have saved 147,000 Kg of carbon from being emitted. This is equivalent to charging an electric vehicle for nearly 4.7 million miles and avoiding the emissions of approximately 147 transatlantic flights.

Our largest and most productive array is at the Sports Centre which at its peak of 150kW, can generate the entire electrical requirement of the building.

Phase 2 is now underway, seeing installations already finished on the Bedson and Stephenson buildings, and many more to come.

Image: Graph displaying the Sports Centre’s power consumption over a week (24/03–30/03). The orange dataset represents the total power consumed by the building, while the blue dataset indicates the portion generated by solar panels.

Merz Court CHP Plant and District Heating

The biofuel Combined Heat and Power (CHP) plant at Merz Court was installed as part of the Stephenson Building project, showcasing an innovative approach to sustainable energy.

At the heart of Merz Court’s heating system is its energy centre, a powerful and efficient plant room tucked away in the building’s basement. Recognising its impressive potential, the University saw an opportunity to divert excess energy to the Stephenson Building. This meant that Stephenson would not require its own energy centre, thereby reducing unnecessary emissions from both construction activity and excess energy production.

The heating plant is designed to provide very-low carbon energy to a growing network of buildings via an underground pipe system including:

  • Henry Daysh Building
  • Stephenson Building
  • King Edward VII Building
  • Percy Building
  • Old Library Building

The CHP is projected to provide approximately 25% of the University’s electricity base load. The approach links back to the Climate Action Plan, investing in district heating and reducing emissions through centralised renewable energy sources.

Future Sustainability Projects
Exciting developments are on the horizon as Newcastle University prepares to launch the next phase of its net-zero strategy, focusing on a more tailored building-by-building approach. This includes working closely with external consultants to refine business cases for various projects.

Engaging the University Community
Alongside larger infrastructure projects, achieving net-zero also relies on the involvement of the wider University community:

If you are a colleague, you can participate in sustainability programmes like the LEAF lab accreditation for wet labs, or the Green Impact award for staff teams. Students can attend free Dr Bike repair events, join the Sustainability Network, or become Green Impact auditors. If you are interested in joining any of these programmes, please see the Sustainable Campus website or contact: sustainable-campus@newcastle.ac.uk

For a better breakdown of the projects the Sustainability Team do across campus, check out our brand-new Sustainability Campus Map.

A big thank you to the Sustainability Team – Matt, Hannah, Luke, and Jordan – for their help in writing and compiling information for this article. I’d also like to thank Tony from the Capital Developments team for providing data and figures, as well as Peter and Sam for their involvement in the Solar PV video.

Celebrating Spring: Top 5 Green Spaces on Campus

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To celebrate the start of spring and the launch of our new Sustainable Campus Map, we’re highlighting the best green spaces on campus. Our interactive map showcases sustainability hotspots across Newcastle University, from research hubs and renewable energy centres to green roofs and sustainable food spots.

At Newcastle University, we are fortunate to have a city campus rich in green spaces – from flower patches to tree clusters, to our perfectly preserved lawns. Besides their environmental benefits, these spaces are proven to enhance well-being and health! Whether you’re enjoying a wellbeing walk, catching up with friends, or simply taking a peaceful moment to yourself, our green spaces offer a refreshing escape in the heart of the city.

Read on to discover our top five campus green spaces, captured in stunning springtime images.

1. Philip Robinson Library Grass

As you exit the Philip Robinson library and turn left, you’ll find a luscious patch of grass – a popular spot among students. When the weather gets warmer make sure to grab a library picnic blanket and soak up the rays. Conveniently located next to a wildflower patch, the Library Grass is a must-visit in warmer months!

2. The Old Quadrangle

Nestled between the Armstrong and Architecture Building, you’ll find a shaded sanctuary. The central location and dispersed benches make the Old Quad a great place to rest and decompress between lecture or meetings.

3. Claremont Lawn

The Claremont Lawn is adjacent to Claremont Road, Merz Court and the Old Library Building. From towering trees to blooming daffodils, the recent sunshine has certainly brought the landscape to life. This tranquil space is the ideal spot for an afternoon book read or meditation session.

4. Drummond Quad

Between Kensington Terrace Accommodation and the Drummond Building lies an oasis of trees, bushes and flower patches, also known as the Drummond Quad. At 1900 metres squared, Drummond Quad is the largest green space on campus! Designated birdboxes attract magpies and blackbirds, and further exploration will lead you to the pond and hidden hedgehog house. Around the pond you are sure to find snowdrops, tulips and daffodils.

5. Bonus Green Spaces

Apart from beautiful lawns, we are also proud of our campus green roofs, found on both buildings and bin stores. While these may not be available for picnics, they are a great example of how increased biodiversity can be incorporated on city campuses.

Some benefits of green roofs include:

  • Intercepting water and preventing flooding
  • Capturing carbon and improving air quality
  • Supporting wildlife
  • Preventing roofs from over-heating

Currently three campus bin stores have grassy roofs, and the Urban Sciences Building has a spacious green roof over the Atrium.

A big thank you to the Grounds Team, who work their hardest to keep our campus vibrant all year round. Check out our brand-new Sustainability Campus Map for a better idea of where green spaces are on campus. See the Biodiversity page to find out more about what we are doing at Sustainable Campus to protect nature. If you have any queries about green spaces or sustainability in general, do not hesitate to email us at sustainable-campus@ncl.ac.uk

Celebrating World Water Day 2025: Saving Every Drop

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World Water Day is a United Nations Observance held on the 22nd of March every year, aiming to raise awareness on the importance of freshwater. Water is a crucial resource that is central to natural ecosystems, agriculture, sanitation, industry, heating, transport, and, of course, keeping us hydrated!

Less than 1% of the world’s water is available for human use, sourced from rivers, lakes, groundwater and even rainwater (Murcott, 2022). A recent study warns that the UK is increasingly vulnerable to water insecurity in the future, due to its limited renewable water sources, high consumption and leakage rates, and its insufficient funding for water management (Loveday, 2024). While water scarcity may seem like a distant concern, it’s crucial to understand how we can reduce our usage and take action now.

To mark World Water Day 2025, this blog will explore how we in the Sustainability Team ensure that the University’s water system is efficient, safe, and abides by all environmental regulations, plus we’ll add in some tips of how you can save water at home too!

Image: Drone shot of the Tyne River, with the Gateshead Millennium Bridge and Tyne Bridge in the background. Source: Elemental Photography.

The University’s water

The University’s water is managed in accordance with our Environmental Management System and we have Operational Control Procedures in place that control significant environmental aspects such as water reduction and trade effluence. These are audited internally and externally annually. To further support our water management, we work  with building users, technicians, and our external monitoring partners Demeter to ensure that water is being used responsibly and any leaks are identified and repaired efficiently. Some examples of recent leaks that were rapidly detected and promptly repaired include a broken fitting on a main pipe at our Bowsden Court student accommodation, a burst pipe in the Henry Daysh basement and a flood inside Herschel Building over the Christmas shutdown period.

In addition to this work to quickly remedy faults in the system, we’re being proactive in saving water across our facilities in a number of ways, including:

  1. Installing Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) software across the University. This system is capable of logging water consumption data every 15 minutes, allowing us to assess and monitor the University’s water usage data accurately.  
  2. Developing a water strategy. Our strategy will help us to holistically review our water monitoring and management processes.
  3. Identifying any issues with fixtures and fittings in our buildings. We ask staff and students to report problems such as broken taps and toilets when they find them so they can be fixed quickly. We also use the AMR data to help us with this as the frequent data logging enables us to identify trends and any anomalies where problems may be occurring. 
  4. Installing push taps to reduce water consumption.
  5. Including water systems in our Sustainable Construction Framework. New systems designed for capital projects have specific sustainability requirements to meet, including specification around water systems.
  6. Monitoring our water consumption daily with specialist support. Our partners Demeter send us information every day about building water consumption to help us stop leaks and identify areas where usage is higher than it should be.

Image: Sustainable Development Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation. Source: UN SDGs.

How can I save water at home?

There are plenty of easy ways you can save water around the house and these actions will help lower your water bill as a bonus!

  • Use a shower timer to help reduce water use in the shower – timers are typically set to four minutes.
  • Only use a dishwasher on a full load and avoid pre-rinse settings.
  • Fill the kettle with only as much water as you need, saving energy as well as water.
  • Use any leftover cooking water on houseplants.
  • When purchasing a new toilet, look for a dual flush option.
  • Fit tap aerators onto your taps and look into aerated shower heads to easily reduce water consumption.

Is there anything I can do on campus?

You can report any water defect, whether it’s a dripping tap, overfilling toilet, leaking pipe or water which is too hot. Simply fill out this Planon form and select the “auto log-in” option or sign in with your University details. The form should be filled-in with as much detail as possible.

Always make sure taps, hoses, and cooling systems are turned off after use. Additionally, if you manage or work in labs you can reduce water use by:

  • Using recirculating cooling systems to save energy and water and reducing the water supply to water-cooled equipment to the minimum required.
  • Avoiding using water vacuum pumps where possible as they use large quantities of water.
  • Specifying what levels of water purity are necessary for various applications and not using distilled water when it is not necessary.
  • Only running washers when they are full and ensuring the lab has correctly sized equipment for its common usage to prevent inefficient washing of oversized items.
  • Joining the Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework (LEAF)!

Thank you so much for reading this blog. If you want to explore more information on water at our university, take a look at our dedicated webpage, or email us at sustainable-campus@ncl.ac.uk

Reference list:

Loveday, K. (2024) UK faces a high level of water security challenge, BSI Reports, The UK Water Report. Available at: https://www.thewaterreport.co.uk/single-post/uk-faces-a-high-level-of-water-security-challenge-bsi-reports (Accessed: 12 March 2025).

Murcott, S. (2022) Freshwater and climate change, MIT Climate Portal. Available at: https://climate.mit.edu/explainers/freshwater-and-climate-change (Accessed: 12 March 2025).

Simpler Recycling: What It Means for You and the Future of Waste Management

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Simpler Recycling is a new policy introduced in 2023 by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). It aims to “make bin day easier” by standardising and reducing the number of recycling containers used across the UK. With new legislation coming into effect on 31st March 2025, here is your guide to understanding what it means for you… 

What is Simpler Recycling?

Under the new requirement, households and workplaces across England will only use four containers for waste: 

  • General waste (non-recyclable materials) 
  • Food waste (collected separately or mixed with garden waste where appropriate) 
  • All other dry recyclable materials (including plastic, metal, and paper) 
  • Glass 

This move is designed to simplify waste collection and increase recycling efficiency. 

Source: Biffa, 2024. 

Who is affected?

The policy will apply to businesses, households, and relevant non-domestic premises (such as universities). Councils and waste collectors will still have flexibility to adjust to local needs. 

Additionally, Simpler Recycling will eliminate the “’postcode lottery” of recycling collection in England, where different councils have historically collected different materials. This change is expected to boost recycling rates, which have flatlined at around 44% – 45% since 2015 (Gov UK, 2024). 

What are the benefits?

  • Saves valuable resources from going to waste and supports the circular economy. 
  • Increases recycling rates, helping England move beyond its recycling plateau. 
  • Simplifies waste collection, making recycling easier for households and businesses. 
  • Standardises recycling practices across the nation, making people recycle correctly no matter where they are in England. 

Simpler Recycling Timeline 

  • 31st March 2025: Businesses with >10 employees and non-domestic premises (such as Newcastle University) in England must arrange for the collection of core recyclable waste streams (glass, metal, plastic, paper, card, and food waste, except for garden waste). 
  • 31st March 2026: Local authorities must collect core recyclable waste streams from all households in England, including weekly food waste collections for most homes. 
  • 31st March 2027: Micro-businesses (fewer than 10 full-time employees) must arrange for the recycling of core waste streams. 
  • 31st March 2027: Introduction of kerbside plastic film collections for households, businesses, and non-domestic premises. 

Source: GOV UK, 2024.

Simpler Recycling is a significant step toward a more efficient and consistent waste management system across England. We hope that the initiative will reduce waste, conserve resources and support a more sustainable future!  

If you would like more information on the Simpler Recycling legislation, click here. If you want to know what Newcastle University is doing to manage waste, check out our Waste and Recycling page. Finally, if you do not have access to the main four waste streams on campus, reach out to us at sustainable-campus@newcastle.ac.uk 

Reference list: