Jump to accessibility statement Skip to content
Close menu

Close

Close menu

Get involved

We are passionate about creating a community at the University with sustainability at its core. Find out how you can get involved in helping us become more eco-friendly and paving the way for a greener future.

Two colleagues sitting on a wall near some trees chatting

Sustainability groups

In order to achieve our goals for sustainability, we need the help of volunteers. This community is key to the culture of sustainable development. People who want to make a positive environmental impact.

There is a growing Sustainability Community of Interest made up of staff and students from across faculties and services. This informal network exists to facilitate sharing of ideas, good practice, and resources to support embedding sustainability into everything we do.

To be added to the group email us at sustainability@sunderland.ac.uk.

An over shoulder shot of students gathered on a field trip in the outdoors listening to the lecturer

Events and volunteering

Keep a look out for events and volunteering opportunities that are advertised on Sharepoint, via the Students' Union, and around campus. We'll let you know how to find out more and how you can get involved. 

For further information, contact us at sustainability@sunderland.ac.uk.

Someone pushing a bike across campus

Join the Active Travel Group

Do you walk, run or cycle to campus? Join our Active Travel Group to:

  • Provide feedback on facilities 
  • Participate in events
  • Access offers and discounts 
  • Share best practice and ideas
  • Encourage others to commute by sustainable modes of transport

 

To join us, email us at sustainability@sunderland.ac.uk.

 

A student planting seeds into some soil in a garden bed.

A Space to Grow Community Garden

A Space 2 Grow is an inclusive and welcoming community garden located at St Peter’s Campus, where students, staff, and local residents come together to connect, create, and cultivate.

This vibrant outdoor space offers the perfect opportunity to:

  • Practice sustainable living through gardening
  • Express creativity with painting and crafting
  • Engage in mindfulness or prayer
  • Participate in community events

Whether you're looking to unwind, meet new people, or make a positive impact, there's something for everyone in the garden.

Interested in volunteering? Email sustainability@sunderland.ac.uk.

Introduction to Monthly Campaign Highlights

At the University of Sunderland, we recognise that meaningful engagement with sustainability begins with our people. Throughout the 2024–2025 academic year, our monthly campaigns have been designed to inspire, inform, and involve both staff and students in practical, impactful sustainability actions. These campaigns are not isolated efforts; they are part of a broader strategy to embed sustainable thinking and behaviour into everyday university life.

By aligning our activities with national and global awareness events and by working closely with local partners and student groups, we’ve created opportunities for our community to take ownership of sustainability. From biodiversity and wellbeing to waste reduction and sustainable travel, each campaign has contributed to a culture of environmental responsibility and social awareness.

This section outlines the key themes and activities delivered month-by-month, showcasing how the university community has actively participated in shaping a more sustainable future, on campus and beyond.

September-October 2024

  • Freshers Welcome: Student induction, Freshers Fayre, Eco Fest, Dr Bike, and BetterPoints promotions
  • Travelwise Week: EV car displays, and online seminars and pop ups to promote cycle to work scheme
  • Volunteering: Litter picks in the local area with staff and students 

November-December 2024

  • Buy Nothing New Month and Sustainable Christmas
  • Events included: jumper collections/sales, community garden sessions, and spring bulb planting
  • Road Safety Week and Switch Off for Christmas campaigns

January-February 2025

  • Veganuary, Energy Savings Week, and Student Volunteering Week
  • Events: House plant sale, nest box building, community garden clear up and Brew Monday

March-April 2025

  • Launch of food waste recycling Scheme and Stress Awareness Month.
  • Events: Plant a Flower Day, Waste Pop-Up, Recycling Centre Visit, and Easter-themed activities.

May-June 2025

  • Sustainability Week (May 6–9): Seminars, fairs, hackathon, and bee talks
  • National Walking Month, Bike Week, and 30 Days Wild.
  • Events: Bio Blitz, Travel Survey, biodiversity photo competition, and beach clean

July-August 2025

  • Plastic Free July and National Allotment Week
  • Events: Wellbeing Wednesday, and community garden 10th anniversary celebration

Communications and engagement

  • Weekly Newsletters: Weekly Sustainability News email updates from September 2024 onwards, covering events, campaigns, and sustainability tips
  • Social Media & SharePoint: Events promoted via the University of Sunderland Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, website and internal SharePoint pages as well as Laura Kerry’s personal Linkedin Page
  • Eventbrite: Used for event registrations, especially for garden sessions, litter picks, and Sustainability Week activities


Key themes and impact

  • Community Engagement: Strong focus on volunteering, gardening, and local partnerships (e.g., Durham Wildlife Trust, SUEZ, Groundwork, A Space 2 Grow and Back on the Map)
  • Sustainable Travel: BetterPoints, Dr Bike, cycle facilities, EV awareness, and travel surveys
  • Waste Reduction: Recycling campaigns, clothing swaps, and waste education
  • Biodiversity & Wellbeing: Bio blitz, pollinator workshops, community garden, and mental health-linked nature activities

Over 500 people have attended on campus events over the year

Explore

How to be a more sustainable student

As a student, incorporating sustainable practices into your daily routine can feel challenging. Here, we’re exploring some practical tips on how you can be a more sustainable student.

Cheap and sustainable ways to travel around Sunderland and the north-east

Sunderland and the north-east offer a perfect blend of coast, countryside, and vibrant city life. Find out how you can get around using efficient modes of transport while considering your carbon footprint and how much you spend.

Sustainable shopping on a budget

Sustainable shopping isn't just good for the planet – it’ll also benefit your health and your wallet, which is particularly important for students during the current cost of living crisis. Read our eight top tips on sustainable shopping on a budget.

Related

Open Days

Virtual Experience

Cost of living in Sunderland