Sustainability

We are accredited to EcoCampus, a recognised Environmental Management System (EMS), providing a structured framework for continual environmental improvement.

All our new builds and refurbished venues use sustainable design guidelines that include design features such as natural lighting, "free" natural ventilation, low-flow water fixtures, and efficient heating systems. Most of our venues are located within BREEAM Excellent rated buildings.

We declared a climate emergency in 2021. Our new carbon strategy sets a target of a 68% reduction of scope 1 & 2 emissions (those relating predominantly to our buildings and infrastructure) from 2010 levels by 2030. By 2040, we intend to become a net-zero carbon organisation, where only unavoidable emissions are offset.

In 2022, we became the first UK university to operate a geothermal heating system. Combined with improved building controls, this has reduced gas consumption by 52%.

More information for energy can be found on the Carbon and Energy page.

Water efficient showers, taps, and toilets are installed in all buildings to help reduce water use. Rainwater harvesting at our Headington Campus and Clive Booth Accommodation capture rainwater for use in our toilets.

We are working towards a 75% recycling target, with comprehensive waste segregation across all sites (mixed recycling, food, clinical, hazardous and general waste).

We prioritise waste prevention and reuse. Through our long-standing partnership with the British Heart Foundation, in 2025 we diverted 31.2 tonnes of items from disposal, generating an estimated £58,580 to support cardiovascular research.

We have a proud history with Fairtrade, being certified as the first Fairtrade University in the world in 2004. The award recognises a broad range of activities undertaken within the institution, working towards a more just, equitable and sustainable world for all.

In partnership with our catering supplier, we achieved a Three Star Food Made Good Award from the Sustainable Restaurant Association in 2024, recognising excellence in sourcing, environmental impact and social responsibility.

Free drinking water is provided at all of our catering outlets and water fountains are installed throughout our campuses. We encourage visitors to bring a reusable water bottle and help reduce the amount of plastic waste generated from single-use water bottles.

We provide ongoing support to promote healthy and sustainable food options. This includes actively sourcing locally grown produce and promoting seasonal foods, maintaining sustainable food and animal welfare accreditations.

To promote more sustainable coffee consumption, we offer a discount when you bring your own cup.Vegetarian and vegan event catering packages are available. We work with event organisers to avoid over-ordering to combat food waste.

More information can be found from Food at Brookes.

Sustainable travel is embedded into the heart and culture of the University. We are committed to reducing the impact of our transport activity, and actively encourage staff, students and visitors to travel by a low emission alternative. Bus services in the city link our campuses and stops at key places including Oxford City Centre, Oxford Rail Station, and Seacourt and Thornhill Park and Ride.

Oxford is a recognised "cycling friendly city" and we promote the use of Bikes and scooters across our halls and campuses.

We are invested in dual monitors in our offices, saving the need to print emails or event documents. We no longer print or distribute brochures. When we must print, it is on 100% recycled paper. We reuse marketing materials such as banners that are not event/date specific.

We advise event organisers to reuse whatever materials possible. Badge holders, lanyards, and pens are all items that can be collected and reused at future events.

Complimentary flip charts, pens, and stationery pads are no longer offered to encourage attendees to use alternative sustainable and digital products.

Event organisers can use our fast and professional on-site printing service UniPrint to reduce carrier delivery emissions.