Sustainability Week 2025: key highlights

The University Sustainability Team, Institute for Sustainability and Students' Union recently hosted their annual Sustainability Week, a week-long festival dedicated to raising awareness and promoting sustainable practices.

The week took place 31 March – 4 April 2025, and featured a series of engaging activities, workshops and initiatives covering many of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Key highlights included:

The launch of the University’s sustainable procurement plan

The University’s new sustainable procurement plan was released. The plan aims to reduce inequalities, carbon emissions, waste production and pollution. Staff and students had the opportunity to find out more about the plan during a Sustainability Assembly organised during the week.

Putting biodiversity first

Staff and student volunteers organised a session to re-launch the Surrey Community Garden, an initiative that provides the University community with a space to learn how to grow food.

The University also celebrated the success of its new beehives, with Professor Max Lu (President and Vice-Chancellor) receiving some of the first honey harvested from the site.

Staff and students had the opportunity to take part in beehive inspections, and join a nature walk organised by the University’s Grounds Team to find out more about biodiversity onsite.

Supporting local organisations

Local charity Phyllis Tuckwell organised it’s first second-hand pop-up at the University.

Zero Carbon Guildford, a charity tackling local issues such as rising energy bills and polluted rivers, hosted several sustainable events for staff, students and the local community during the week.

The University’s very own Sustain festival hosted a film screening, building up to their first festival across Guildford in August 2025.

Celebrating sustainable success

The week culminated with the University’s Sustainability Awards, celebrating individuals and teams who have gone above and beyond to embed sustainable practices at the University and within the community.

Get involved

Sustainability isn't just for Sustainability Week! The University and Students' Union provide opportunities to get involved with sustainability throughout the year. Whether you're looking for volunteering opportunities or want to learn more about sustainability, there's something for everyone!

Find out more about sustainable engagement at the University and get involved.