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Environmental Sustainability

Explore these pages to learn about the University of Cambridge's commitments, approach and progress in becoming an environmentally sustainable university in the operational areas of Carbon and energy, Travel and transport, Waste and circular economy, Biodiversity, and Water.

 

We're committed to delivering our world-leading research and teaching in an environmentally responsible way. We're signatories to the Concordat for the Environmental Sustainability of Research and Innovation Practice.

We’re taking action to improve our operational environmental performance. We have an Environmental Management System (EMS) certified to the international standard ISO 14001:2015 to reduce environmental risks, ensure legal compliance, and drive continuous improvement. View our certificate.

 


University of Cambridge Environmental Sustainability Team 

The Environmental Sustainability Team lead the work to improve the environmental performance of the University’s estate and associated operations.

Based in the Estates Division, we support University departments in taking action at the local level to become more environmentally sustainable in their daily activities and operations, as well as supporting other teams who are addressing various aspects of the University's environmental performance. We also collaborate with the wider Collegiate University to share best practice and knowledge relating to environmental sustainability.

Environmental emergencies and incidents

Environmental emergencies

For University members in an emergency, or to escalate incidents to the University Silver Team, contact the University Security Control Centre 24/7 on (3)31818 or dial 101 from the internal network.

For environmental emergencies during office hours Monday to Thursday on our estate, please also contact the Environmental Sustainability Team on (01223) 763574.


Reporting an environmental incident

All environmental incidents and/or near misses should be reported by University members via the Safety Office’s portal AssessNET.


Latest case study

David Attenborough Building: Outstanding environmental management

31 March 2025

The David Attenborough Building (DAB) is more than just a hub for cutting-edge conservation research ; it’s a model of the University’s commitment to environmental sustainability. Guided by the principles of ISO 14001:2015 , the DAB has established a comprehensive Environmental Management System (EMS) that integrates...

Clinical School Climate Forum: Freezing the way to sustainable labs

30 March 2025

Since 2022, the School of Clinical Medicine (SCM), led by their Climate and Sustainability Action Group, has been developing and delivering its Local Environmental Sustainability Plan (LESP). To date, the group has coordinated a range of sustainability initiatives, including reducing the energy consumption and extending...

Banking Engagement Forum: Driving sustainable finance

28 March 2025

The Banking Engagement Forum (BEF) has been recognised with one of the University’s prestigious Excellence Awards, celebrating its outstanding contribution to enhancing environmental sustainability. In 2023, after three years of collaboration with the major banks serving the University of Cambridge and its affiliated...