University of St Andrews
St And Re-use – Creating a Sharing and Caring Economy
Finalist, Creating Impact
About
The University of St Andrews has taken a unique, community-wide approach to dealing with student waste from halls and private accommodation which has increased the options for re-use, repair and upcycling whilst reducing consumption. Our partnership of local and national charities combines with our Transition University of St Andrews team of volunteers and staff to create a network of waste goods collection, sorting, storage, repair and redistribution back to students and to people in need within our local community. Transition have also developed shared economy services that enable students, staff and the community to borrow, rather than buy, everything from kitchen utensils and gazebos to bikes and power tools. Positioning these services as being
simple to access, excellent value and available to students, staff and the community has helped build a strong volunteer team with wide-ranging skills and capacity to deliver a town-wide circularity programme that shares and cares.
Top 3 learnings
- Our students value the opportunity to borrow rather than own household goods, bikes and tools.
- We found that students like to repair and maintain their personal or rented equipment as it
reduces costs and gives them life skills. - Our shared economy approach has led to the sharing of skills across our community whilst caring
for others.
What it means to win
Winning a Green Gown award be a wonderful way to recognise the value of all our dedicated volunteers that are work hard to change the way we consume and value materials whilst supporting those in need within the local community.
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
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Finalist, Nature Positive
