Queen's University Belfast
Repairing Communities: Circular Economy Action at Queen’s
Finalist, Benefitting Society
About
Queen’s University Belfast has delivered a dynamic programme of Repair Cafés, skills-based workshops, and interactive exhibitions as part of its Rethink, Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Recycle initiative, embedding circular economy principles across campus and beyond. Through a series of four Repair Cafés, alongside over thirty hands-on skills-based workshops and two thought-provoking exhibitions, the initiative has brought together students, staff, local communities, and external partners. It has built strong connections across the University, linking with existing initiatives such as the on-site SU Swap Shop, Accommodation Donation Stations, and the Bike Hub to create a joined-up, campus-wide approach. While collaborating with organisations including Northern Ireland Resource Network, Repair Café NI, local businesses, social enterprises, and government stakeholders. Focused on action rather than awareness, the initiative extends product life, reduces waste, and builds practical repair skills. It also supports Northern Ireland’s emerging Circular Economy Strategy by providing a scalable, community-based model for embedding circular practices in everyday life.
Top 3 learnings
- We have found partnership-led delivery unlocks greater impact than institution-led approaches alone
- Hands-on repair drives deeper behaviour change than awareness campaigns
- Universities can act as powerful convenors for circular economy action
What it would mean to win
We would be delighted to be recognised by the Green Gown Awards for working to establish circular economy principles across our campus. These initiatives provide our staff and students with the ability to address real world challenges throughout their time at Queen’s and beyond.
SDG
| 2026 | |
| Benefitting Society | |
| Finalist, UK and Ireland |
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