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Sustainability

The mission of the University of Cambridge is “to contribute to society through the pursuit of education, learning, and research at the highest international levels of excellence”. Research in the field of sustainability is one way that the University contributes to society. Right now, across the University, advances are being made in the areas of energy, manufacturing, urban design, business, land economy and food security that will hopefully create a future where we can meet our needs without jeopardising the ability of future generations to meet theirs.

As a research intensive University, we also have a responsibility to carry out all research in a manner which minimises negative environmental impacts. To research sustainably we need to be resource efficient, we need to prioritise energy efficiency and all staff must be aware of their role when it comes to reducing water or waste.

Throughout February we will raise awareness of these two very different facets of research through a series of engaging events designed to inform and empower. A special page on our website has been created for Spotlight on Sustainable Research month, which includes a list of all the talks and workshops hosted by various departments and Colleges that focus on sustainability.

Below are just two of the events during the month, organised by the University’s Environment and Energy section, which aim to cover some key topics of interest to staff and students at the University.

Sustainability 101 - how to frame it, change it and steer it

Thursday 22 February, 12:30 -1:30pm, Weston Room, David Attenborough Building

This event will draw on research and expertise at the University to provide practical pointers and tips to University staff and students who want to encourage pro-environmental behaviour. Three short talks focus on key areas that we know people struggle with when they are trying to encourage sustainable behaviours in their own places of work and study. The speakers at this event will be Cameron Brick from the Department of Psychology, Emma Garnett of the Department of Zoology and Paul Begley of the Cambridge Institute of Sustainability Leadership (CISL).

Registration is required for this event - click here

Sustainable Research - boosting lab performance

Thursday 15 February 2018, 12:30 - 1:30pm, Sainsbury Laboratory

Scientific research is energy and resource intensive - research uses more energy per m² than any other activity in the University, consumes large volumes of treated water and chemicals, and produces huge amounts of complicated waste. So how do we reduce our environmental impact while still carrying out important research?

The goal of this workshop is to answer that exact question. Come along to meet others managing and working in labs at the University of Cambridge, as well as the University's Environmental Manager and Sustainable Labs Coordinator, to discuss and share ideas on improving the environmental performance of research. Lunch will be provided.

Registration required for this event - click here

Other events

For details of over 14 other events taking place during spotlight on sustainable research month, click here.