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We take our environmental impact seriously

We are committed to reducing our environmental impact and creating a more sustainable workplace at our offices at 90 High Holborn. As part of this commitment, we take part in UCL’s Green Impact programme, an award-winning initiative that supports environmentally and socially responsible practices across organisations.

We review our progress every year and continually look for ways to reduce our carbon footprint and improve sustainability in the workplace. Since joining the Green Impact programme, we have consistently strengthened our sustainability efforts, achieving a Silver Award in 2022-2023, followed by Gold Awards in 2023-2024, 2024-2025 and 2025-2026. These recognitions demonstrate our sustained commitment to environmental responsibility and continuous improvement across our organisation.

 

 

UCL’s Sustainability Plan (2025-2035) sets out an ambitious roadmap for the next decade, focused on collective action and systemic change. Our sustainability activities support these goals and help create positive environmental impact both within our office and beyond.

Download the UCL Sustainability Plan (2025-35)

What we are doing:

Greener office practices

Succulent plant on a table

We have introduced a range of measures to reduce waste and energy in the office. For example, we run "switch off" campaigns during holidays to encourage staff to turn off lights, screens and equipment when not in use. We also encourage staff to keep office plants, which help create a healthier and more welcoming working environment.

Recycling/Reducing waste

UCL recycling poster: Rubish, plastic and food waste

We recycle as much as possible by collecting mixed recyclables, food waste, electrical items, and used batteries. IT equipment is recycled separately through specialist schemes. Where possible, we give technology a second life. Older laptops that are still in good working condition are refurbished in-house and redistributed to staff working at our clinical trial sites in low- and middle-income countries.

Building Awareness

UCL University

Sustainability is everyone's responsibility. All staff complete a sustainability e-learning course when they join, helping them understand how everyday actions can reduce environmental impact. Our team is encouraged to work efficiently, minimise waste and actively support the goals of UCL's Sustainability Strategy.

Powered by plants

Close-up of various colourful raw vegetables

We are proud to be 'Powered by Plants'. Wherever possible, we choose suppliers that offer Fairtrade, sustainable and vegetarian catering options. Sustainability is also considered when selecting catering for meetings and events.

Sustainable Travel

Painting of a bike symbol on pavement

We encourage staff to choose more sustainable ways of travelling. Through the UCL Cycle Scheme, staff can purchase bikes through a tax-free scheme and access discounts on cycle hire subscriptions across London. Our office provides secure bike storage and changing facilities to support active travel. Where practical, staff are encouraged to travel by train, particularly for national and short international journeys.

Sustainability events

We organise events throughout the year to encourage sustainable habits, learn from one another and bring colleagues together. Recent activities have included: Events: We also run events to promote sustainable and environmentally friendly actions. Recently, these have included:

  • Plant repotting event
  • Veganuary breakfast event
  • A book swap