About
Kingston University’s Sustainability Plan reflects a whole-institution commitment to embedding sustainability across teaching, learning, research, knowledge exchange and operations. Our theme on waste reduction has evolved over time to incorporate considerations around circular economy, particularly working with various stakeholders to drive meaningful change. This application highlights several Circular Kingston
projects:
- Re:Use Box – central hub for staff and students to collect stationary, books and other used office items that would otherwise be discarded.
- Waste to Plate – on-campus food hub, providing surplus food extremely low-cost and free food to students.
- Returnable Cups – implementation of returnable cups through KU catering outlets.
- Think Green – in partnership with Kingston Council – an event bringing together academic, commercial and other partners, SMEs to showcase circular economy partnership.
Top 3 learnings
- We have learned how clear planning and communication improves delivering activities with
community partnerships. - I value piloting initiatives to demonstrate outcomes and understand challenges to scaling across
our campuses. - I’ve noticed how focussing on student experience of our initiative increases engagement and
outcomes.
What it means to win
Winning this prestigious award demonstrates how our commitment to sustainability is empowering staff and students to act as change agents and in partnership with the wider community, contributing to a more sustainable future.
Sustainable Development Goals
| 2026 | |
| Creating Impact | |
| Finalist, UK and Ireland |
More from the 2026 awards
Charles Sturt University
Restoring Nature, Inspiring Futures: 20+ Years of Biodiversity Leadership
Read More
Finalist, Nature Positive
