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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

Climate Ambassadors Northeast Hub 

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Are you passionate about the environment and climate change? Sign up to become a climate ambassador! 

Funded by a £2 million investment from the Department for Education, the Climate Ambassador programme is delivered in partnership with the University of Reading, EAUC (the Alliance for Sustainability Leadership in Education), and supported by STEM Learning.  

The programme exists to support nurseries, schools, colleges, and universities in England to develop and implement Climate Action Plans (CAPs) – enabling all education settings to have a CAP in place by the end of 2025. 

What is a Climate Ambassador? 

A Climate Ambassador is a volunteer from any background who is passionate about taking action against climate change and making a positive difference in their local schools, communities, and to the planet! You don’t need to be a climate expert to be an ambassador – training and ongoing support are provided. Ambassadors help raise awareness, inspire others, and lead by example, promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility. 

As a Climate Ambassador you will have flexibility as to what support you give and how much time you contribute but this includes the opportunity to: 

  • Promote climate action and sustainability across education through collaboration, leadership, and engagement. 
  • Co-develop and implement effective Climate Action Plans (CAPs) with schools and local communities. 
  • Lead eco-initiatives and educational campaigns that inspire participation and long-term behaviour change. 
  • Share insights, experiences and best practices within the network. 

The Northeast Hub 

To support the programme, regional hubs in each of England’s education regions have been set up so that volunteer ambassadors can be matched with education settings in their area. The Northeast Hub is hosted by Newcastle University and led by  Dr Stephen Blenkinsop  and  Professor Hayley Fowler. 

“The Northeast Climate Ambassadors Hub hosted by Newcastle University is excited to be able to draw on the expertise and passion people across our region have for addressing the challenges of climate change. Volunteer ambassadors as well as nurseries, schools and colleges interested in getting support can find out more about all the help the scheme provides from the regional hub at climateambassadors.ne@newcastle.ac.uk.” 

Dr Stephen Blenkinsop 

Sign up now! 

If you are interested in getting involved with the Climate Ambassadors scheme, you can find out more here or sign up here! Volunteers will be provided with free training and support, and be matched to a local nursery, school or college that needs help creating a climate action plan.  

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 

Bike Maintenance: Handy tips to keep your wheels on the road 

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We’ve all been there – the sun’s shining, you’ve got your cycling clothes on, water bottle filled, ready to hit the road…only to discover an issue with your bike. Whether it’s a flat tyre, faulty brakes, or grinding gears, we’ve teamed up with our friends at WATBike to share some simple maintenance tips that’ll keep your bike in a roadworthy condition. 

1. Bike storage 

Where you store your bike matters. Storing your bike in a safe place is not only important for security reasons, but it can also help keep your bike in good condition. Leaving a bike outside for extended periods (such as in a garden/backyard over winter) will expose your bike to the elements which, over time, will cause the parts to corrode and eventually lead to failure of the gears, brakes etc. 

Tips for smart storage:

2. Tyres

Your tyres are a critical component of your bike’s performance and safety. Maintaining the correct tyre pressure and regularly checking their condition is vital!

Tyre care tips:

  • Check tyre pressure regularly, ensuring the PSI is at the required level (these can be found on the tyre wall).  Ensuring the correct pressure helps to prevent punctures. 
  • Keep a small hand pump with you to ensure you can always pump your tyres. Or you can use the University cycle repair stand near Hatton Gallery (location shown in our map). This stand is equipped with allen keys, screwdrivers, spanners, adjustable fit bike pump and a tyre iron.
  • Inspect your tyres for cracks or holes – replace tyres if they’re showing serious wear.

3. Bike Cleaning

Regular bike cleaning will prevent rust and corrosion, helping your bike parts last longer and be more effective.

Cleaning checklist:

  • Use a hose (light pressure!) to rinse off loose dirt.
  • Scrub with bike-friendly brushes, especially around the chain and cassette (gears). It is also important to keep the braking surface of your wheels clean and dry.   
  • Check out this 5-minute bike wash tutorial on YouTube, or if a deeper clean is needed, this 30-minute bike wash tutorial.

4. Chain Care

One of the easiest and most effective maintenance tasks: lubricating your chain. It ensures a smoother ride with less clunking when changing gears and extends your bike chains lifespan. There are two main types of chain lubricant; wet and dry, and it depends on the type of riding you do and the time of year as to which lubricant you should use.  

Choosing the right chain lube:

Dry lube: Best for people who mainly ride on roads. It’s thinner and won’t pick up as much dust in the summer.

Wet lube: Designed for wet, muddy conditions. It is thicker than dry lube, which helps it repel water and keep your chain lubricated. 

If you’re not sure which to use, ask at a local bike shop, or at our regular Dr Bike sessions.

5. Loose parts 

If something on your bike feels loose (especially pedals) – don’t ride it! Bring it to a Dr Bike session or bike repair shop straight away. A quick tweak when a problem first arises can save big mechanical issues in the future if you leave it unresolved.

Maintenance at Dr Bike

If you require more help with bike maintenance, our regular Dr Bike sessions on campus are a great place to start. Whether it’s a quick fix or a maintenance question, expert advice is always on hand.  WATBike are here every two weeks throughout the year and are happy to help.

We’re also excited to announce Bike Week, taking place at The Boiler House from Monday 12th to Wednesday 14th May, in partnership with WATBike and supported by Cycling UK.

During Bike Week, Bike technicians will be available on campus from 10:00-14:00 each day to provide more detailed support on how to maintain your bike, with guidance and advice from the team at WATBike. There will also be a sale of lovingly refurbished bikes across a range of styles and sizes across the event. Buying second hand is not only great for your wallet, but also for the planet!

Useful Links:

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

Reflecting on the Women in Sustainability Careers Exploration Workshop

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Last week, on Monday the 10th of March, the inaugural Women in Sustainability Careers Exploration Workshop took place, in partnership with the official Women in Sustainability Network. Over 35 students were able to reflect, learn and be inspired to explore careers in sustainability-related roles, coached by experts in the field.

At Newcastle University, we support the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – seeking peace and prosperity for all people and the planet now and in the future. The UN SDG group recognise that without the full participation and leadership of women and girls, the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals will be an impossible task (UNSDG website, 2025).

“Women and girls deserve a seat at every table, a voice in every decision, and an equal chance to shape what lies ahead.”

– Amina J. Mohammed, UN Deputy Secretary-General and Chair of the UN Sustainable Development Group

Read on to explore the valuable advice shared by our panellists and to learn about the students’ thoughts and reflections on the event.

The Event

The event was opened by Charlotte and Cristina – two placement students from the Sustainability Team, before handing over to Jenny Davidson. Jenny is a Visiting Fellow at Newcastle University having previously been a Senior Lecturer in the Business School, Climate Change Fellow in School X and Chair of the University’s Sustainability Committee. Jenny chaired the panel session with four inspiring sustainability experts from a variety of fields.

The Panel:

The panellists discussed their passions, career backgrounds, and current topics they deemed most relevant in their roles. Here are some key takeaways from the panel session:

  • There is not one route into sustainability, and each of our experts studied a variety of subjects at university including languages, geology and environmental management. Working towards a more sustainable world is a group task, and people from all work fields need to get involved. Each panellist had a different interest within sustainability, from teaching and research to consulting.
  • Experience and perseverance are key! Hannah from AECOM shared that after graduating she had a variety of jobs before landing her graduate sustainability consultant job. Sometimes it’s easy to compare yourself to others, but everyone’s journey is different!
  • You don’t have to know exactly what you want to do at the start of your career. You can find your passions as you gain more experience in the field and find your speciality.

After the panel session, our experts each joined a breakout table of students, where conversation menus guided the discussions. This format created a relaxed and safe space for students to ask questions, share ideas and reflect on their own aspirations and attributes.

Hannah, a Sustainability Consultant at AECOM, shared valuable advice with the students: “Utilise all the additional (most of the time – free!) services that the university provides to you throughout your studies e.g. dissertation/essay writing services, and these often offer the opportunity for you to work on your thesis with an extra professional who may be a specialist in academic writing – I found this really useful when completing my master’s dissertation”.

Reflecting on the event, Meryl Batchelder, TeachSDGs Ambassador and United Nations-accredited Climate Change Teacher, said, ““It really was a fantastic gathering of young students. I loved talking with them about their hopes (and fears) for the future alongside sharing my lived experience.”

The students were also given a handy “earnings and action plan” sheet where they could record learnings, and tick off actions, such as ‘make one new LinkedIn connection’. The back of the sheet listed a variety of helpful websites and networks to search after the workshop.

The feedback from students has been glowing, highlighting the value of bringing experts from industry into students’ learning.

 “I learnt much more than I anticipated. I learnt about so many different backgrounds and different career opportunities. It was amazing to hear such strong, smart women describing their experiences and careers and how they utilised their own failures and got where they are today. I came away feeling brave and strong being a female scientist.”

“I really enjoyed the whole event, and the environment was really friendly and open to discussion. [I learnt] there is no set route into the sustainability industry, but it is important to show your enthusiasm for the subject and follow a career that you feel rewarded in.”

“There’s no right or wrong route to working in sustainability. Say yes to as many opportunities as possible and don’t be afraid to stick to your principles.”

Thank you to Meryl Batchelder​, Olivia Partington​, Hannah Shepherd​ and Hayley Fowler​ for inspiring and talking to our students. A big thank you to Toby Price for putting the event together, and Jenny Davidson for chairing.

References

Unsdg | A World for All Women and Girls