Latest sustainability news

Last week, the University of York welcomed Year 9 and Year 10 students from local secondary schools for a day of learning and collaboration focused on sustainability.

Last week, the University celebrated the incredible achievements of staff and student teams at the 2025 Green Impact Awards.

Read about a team of Environment and Geography students who collaborated with York Explore Libraries on a Sustainability Clinic project to engage early years children and families with sustainability storytelling.

Find out more about Sustainability at York in June 2025.

Charlotte Beale, a BSc Ecology student in the Department of Biology, shares her experience working with an interdisciplinary student team to complete a Sustainability Clinic project with the Rugby Football League (RFL).

Throughout June, York Environmental Sustainability Institute (YESI) have several seminars as part of their Knowledge Exchange and International Fellows schemes.

Deborah MacKenzie, an MSc student from the Department of Environment and Geography, is exploring whether a sustainable industrial transition to alternative plant-based textile biomaterials is achievable.

Isabel Navarro Law, a third year PhD student from the Department of Environment and Geography, presented her research at SSRC25 in March, looking at aquatic plants located near agricultural land.

Apply to join the York Climate Commission’s New Communications & Engagement WorkingGroup and help them turn up the volume on climate action in York.

This year, the International Pathway College (IPC) has been making great strides in sustainability through their Green Impact project, "The Role of Knowledge in Advancing Sustainability".

Our increasingly online lives have a remarkably high energy cost and there is an untold story regarding a huge environmental impact, according to new research from the University of York.

This spring, the University has launched a new element of the successful Green Impact programme, specifically aimed to support research wet labs across campus.

A biodegradable material which has the potential to transform the global fight against plastic pollution has been created by a University of York student.

Find out more about Sustainability at York in May 2025.

Researchers evaluating a nature-based programme of activities for patients with mild to moderate mental health conditions have shown that improvements in mood and anxiety levels can be seen in as little as 12 weeks.

Suzie Eden, a first year PhD student from the Department of Education, recently presented her research at SSRC25, looking at how sustainability can be incorporated into the secondary education geography curriculum.

Harry Bennett, an MSc Environmental Science & Management student within the Department of Environment and Geography, recently presented his research at SSRC25, investigating change management in sustainable agriculture.

Find out more about Sustainability at York in April 2025.

A team of six students from the Department of Environment and Geography completed a Sustainability Clinic project with Thirteen Group to enhance biodiversity in low-income urban areas.

A new study has revealed a significant shift in the sources of nitrogen oxides (NOx) pollution in central London, with gas boilers used for heating now identified as the primary contributor.

The York Environmental Sustainability Institute (YESI) is delighted to welcome Dr Sabine Clarke as the new co-lead for their Health and Environment Research Theme.

Here about the Technical Theatre Society about how they used the Sustainable Development Grant to take a step towards their zero waste goal.

The University of York is launching a landmark geothermal project that aims to cut fossil fuel use across Campus and spearhead the City's Net Zero ambitions.

How can we create a more environmentally sustainable research culture? These bite-sized podcast episodes offer expert insights on integrating climate action into research. Listen to find out how to make sustainability a part of your research practices.

Savannah Davies, a Final Year Environment, Economics and Ecology student, recently presented her dissertation at SSRC25, examining how environmental activism influences global environmental policy.

New University of York research is examining changing seasons and what this means for how we approach climate change.

The University has launched a Code of Practice for Sustainable Research to help all UoY researchers integrate sustainability into their work and support our carbon net-zero goals.

York Students' Union's Sustainable Development Grant has awarded funding to three exciting new projects on campus.

The York Climate Commission (YCC) has announced the appointment of two new co-chairs, Jennifer Potter and Henrietta Stock, who will spearhead the commission’s work to drive forward climate and nature action across the city that delivers for the people of York.

Find out more about Sustainability at York in March 2025.

Hear about Prasad's research and how he used the York Students' Union Sustainable Development Grant to help him deliver work on climate action through role-playing games.

Join in with Water Action Week and help save water as part of this year's College Sustainability Challenge.

Researchers know that mountain communities are particularly vulnerable to climate change, but there is limited understanding of climate change impacts in most African mountains due to lack of data. This might be surprising given that around 288 million people live in Africa mountain regions.

Discover how our students showcased their innovative research at the latest Student Sustainability Research Conference 2025.

Researchers have suggested appointing practitioners or stewards to bring together local knowledge and conservation practices to inform policies on coexistence with large carnivores such as wolves, bears and lynx.

Alumni Sustainability Newsletter | February 2025: What gives you hope for the future?

York Interdisciplinary Modules (YIMs) offer students the chance to explore sustainability challenges from multiple perspectives, no matter their degree programme. Here’s why you should consider taking one next year.

Researchers at the University of York will lead a major project to provide clean, solar energy to rural communities in Africa.

Welcome to this special edition Sustainability Newsletter packed full of information about the upcoming Sustainability Week running from Monday 3 to Friday 7 March.

SEI's Kevin Hicks presented evidence at a House of Lords nitrogen pollution inquiry as the committee drafts a report to advise the government on better management.

This week is Waste Action Week, dedicated to reducing waste and promoting sustainable habits.

Find out more about Sustainability at York in February 2025.

Thanks to everyone who came and said hello at York Students' Union's New Year, Same Planet Fair

Sustainability Week runs 3-7 March. The calendar is now live to book onto a sustainability-related event or activity.

York SU's Sustainable Development Grant has awarded funding to two new projects.

Our sustainability-related York Interdisciplinary Modules (YIMs) are now open for applications.

Find out more about Sustainability at York in January 2025.

2nd Year students from the Department of Environment and Geography showcased innovative solutions for a sustainable future at the Engendering Change Conference held on Friday 29 November.

As the year draws to a close, we think that it's the perfect time to reflect on and celebrate our achievements. We’re thrilled to share the Sustainability Clinic Highlights 2023/24.

Find out more about Sustainability at York in December 2024.

Find out more about Sustainability at York in November 2024.

Find out more about Sustainability at York in October 2024.

Find out more about Sustainability at York in July 2024.

We welcomed students from local secondary schools to take part in a Sustainability Enrichment Day.

Find out more about Sustainability at York in June 2024.

Find out how York did in this year's City Nature Challenge.

George Warrick and his peers have been working with Crambe Grange Farm as part of a Sustainability Clinic project.

Unlock a world of sustainable solutions and advance your career in the revolutionary renewable energy industry.

Read about a team of 3rd Year Environment and Geography students who have partnered with a York primary school as part of their Sustainability Clinic project.

We're excited to announce the installation of our brand new martin boxes and tern rafts, set to encourage nesting and support our local wildlife population!

Find out about the benefits of choosing a sustainability elective module in 2024/25.

Participant reflections from the recent lifelong learning course, 'Climate Conversations.'

Find out how you can get involved in this year's York City Nature Challenge at the end of April.

Read about Beckie Lait's experience presenting her research at two sustainability conferences in Leeds and London.

Find out about ESAY's Sustainability and Policy elective module available to 3rd Year undergraduate students in 2024/25.

Want to take part in Water Week (18 to 22 March)? You could win a £25 voucher for getting involved!

Read about last week’s Student Sustainability Research Conference at the University of Leeds.

A huge thanks to everyone who participated in Sustainability Week last week.

Find out more about the award-winning Sustainability Clinic, part of our suite of York Interdisciplinary Modules, and how you can apply.

Learn how to create safe spaces to deliver quality climate education.

See it, snap it, share it! The York City Nature Challenge is running from 26 to 29 April 2024, and aims to raise awareness of the biodiversity in and around the city.

Running from 4 to 8 March, you're invited to join us for a dedicated week of activities, events and workshops to raise awareness about environmental and social issues.

Environmental Sustainability at York (ESAY) is once again offering an exciting suite of sustainability-related interdisciplinary modules for 2024/25.

Calling students! Cook using your leftovers and participate in Love Student Leftovers' Instagram competition. Be in with the chance to win £100!

Find out how the Department of Health Sciences have cultivated a small herb garden to serve as a site for education and wellbeing.

Are you a postgraduate researcher interested in the role of games in environmental education, research and engagement? Join Play for the Planet at the University of York on 22 April!

Discover how our Executive Operations Department created a campus allotment to foster sustainability, community, and staff wellbeing.

Be inspired by student research from across Yorkshire, tackling global challenges.

On 1 December, students from the University of York attended the Multi-University Challenge Day on Sustainability at the University of Leeds.

Read about one of the Sustainability Clinic's Expert Advisors, Dr Kelly Redeker, and why he decided to take on this role for the Clinic.

Professor Stephen Levett, Director of the Sustainability Clinic, shares his personal reflections about the clinic, why student collaboration is important, and where he wants to see the clinic going in the future.

Ebba Wadlan, currently studying Politics and International Relations with Placement Year, is part way through her placement year with York Cares.

Interested in working in a team to embed sustainability and climate justice in all student learning? Apply for one of our internships.

Read about one of the Sustainability Clinic's Expert Advisors, Georgia Ramsay, and why she decided to take on this role for the Clinic.

On Wednesday, we were joined by 26 staff and students for another brilliant climate science workshop.

The University of York's Sustainability Clinic has won a prestigious Green Gown award.

Meet the tutors to find out more about this exciting postgraduate programme.

You’re invited to get involved with Energy Action Week as part of this year's Student Switch Off competition.

Earlier this month, Anna Morfitt (Communications Officer, ESAY) delivered a climate communications masterclass for students and staff at the University.

Calling students! Applications to present at the annual Student Sustainability Research Conference 2024 are now open.

The discussion group is based on Greta Thunberg’s The Climate Book, starting on 16 November.

Moses Cirelli, a 2nd Year student, ran some joint Biodiversity Walks and Campus Tours for new students during Fresher's Week this year.

Understand the causes and impacts of climate change in 3 short hours

Environmental Sustainability at York's (ESAY) latest report highlights their successes over the last 2 years, including showcasing how it has supported our University's Sustainability Plan.

180 students are taking part in 'live' sustainability projects for organisations, from surveying biodiversity to sustainable transport plans at local community rugby grounds.

Interested in starting a sustainability project but need some funding? YUSU's Sustainable Development Grant may be able to help.

Read more about Millie's experience as a Living Lab Digital Communications Assistant for Environmental Sustainability at York (ESAY).

Read about Erin's recent experience as a Living Labs summer intern for Environmental Sustainability at York (ESAY).

Take a look at the 60+ events taking place this York Environment Week from 23 September until 1 October.

Applications are now open to volunteer as a Green Impact Project Assistant.

Read about the Green Vanbrugh team who have been awarded Gold in this year's Green Impact Awards for engaging students in sustainability best practices.

Work on sustainable palm oil conducted by Professor Jane Hill at the University of York has been selected as a Green Gown Awards UK and Ireland Finalist for Research with Impact!

Benjamin Sharpe and his peers have been working alongside the circular economy technology provider ‘Techbuyer’ to help achieve a 5-star UN Sustainable Development Goal rating.

Read about the Centre for Health Economics team who have been awarded silver in this year's Green Impact Awards for their project on sustainable work travel.

Recent BSc Environmental Science graduate Emily Narey investigates the University’s consumer food waste behaviour.

The Sustainability Clinic has been shortlisted as a Green Gown Awards Finalist for student engagement!

Introducing the Green Chemistry team, dedicated to exploring the utilisation of hydrogen carrier gases for a more sustainable future.

Meet the team who are buying and selling redundant laboratory equipment to reduce the carbon cost of manufacturing new products!

Plastic Free July is a global movement that helps millions of people be part of the solution to plastic pollution – so we can have cleaner streets, oceans, and beautiful communities.

Meet the team who are putting environmental sustainability at the heart of Alumni relations!

The yearly butterfly count is about to start, from 14 July to 6 August.

Print alternatives project wins platinum at the Green Impact Awards

PGCE history trainees reflect on teaching history in an age of climate crisis

A group of MA Education students have recently presented at the University of York Europe Campus 'Student Spring Symposium of 2023', talking about their Education for Sustainable Development Project.  

Environmental Sustainability at York (ESAY) is hiring two Biodiversity Living Lab interns! Find out more about the roles and how you can apply.

The University of York joined more than 40 Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) UK members and stakeholders to build momentum for the contribution of UK higher education institutions to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Hal Agar, a BSc Environmental Science student, shares his transformative experience speaking at the UNECE regional forum on “Solar Radiation Modification and Youth Perspectives on its Governance” on 30 March.

Students discovered the beauty and importance of our campus biodiversity on a recent Living Labs campus walk.

The annual European Doctoral Summer School will take place week 19-23 June 2023, and this year's theme will focus on sustainability.

Staff and students from the University enjoyed another brilliant Climate Fresk workshop in the Spring Lane Building on Wednesday.

The YUSU Excellence Awards are back for 2023 and we are looking for the next Sustainability Champion of the Year!

York Festival of Ideas returns from 2-15 June, including events and talks relating to environment and sustainability.

Tasmiyah Khanum, a 3rd Year Biomedical Sciences student, has just completed her internship with Environmental Sustainability at York (ESAY).

Join us to explore our campus and expand your knowledge of biodiversity with a walk and casual cake event.

Read about how Elisha's experiences have prepared her for the world of work.

Missed the Student Sustainability Research Conference on 28 March? Read below to find out what happened on the day!

Two students from the University of York, Hal Agar and Nicola Rosca, will be speaking at a 'UN Regional Forum Side Event: Solar Radiation Modification and Youth Perspectives on its Governance' on 30 March.

Find out how a local organisation in York became involved with our Sustainability Clinic

Environmental Sustainability at York (ESAY) is offering an exciting new postgraduate programme, MSc Environmental Sustainability Education & Communication.

Marina tells us about her involvement in our Living Labs biodiversity pilot scheme last year.

Are you a PhD student or early career researcher working on climate, environmental or sustainability education?

Applications are now open to volunteer as a Green Impact Auditor

Volunteer for this year's Big Community Challenge and help restore river and wetland areas in York

We have an exciting opportunity for final year students from all departments to take part in this year's online international symposium.

There are still a few tickets to the annual Student Sustainability Research conference left at the University of Leeds on 28 March 2023.

Try your hand at pottery-making or bread-making as part of a research project that aims to find out how linking students to outdoor archaeology-based activities might benefit students' health and wellbeing.

Do you have an idea for using the campus as a test bed to improve biodiversity? We’d love to hear your thoughts.

Amy tells us how she helped create a sustainability action plan for a local charity during her participation in the Sustainability Clinic in 2022.

Environmental Sustainability at York (ESAY) is offering a suite of sustainability-related York Interdisciplinary Modules (YIMs) available for students in 2023/24. Read more to find out how you can take part in this opportunity.

Last week, staff and students at the University of York joined together at Anne Lister College on Campus East to learn about the causes of climate change and how to take action.