Sustainability @ Huddersfield Students' Union

Sustainability is important to you, so it’s important to us too! We know we’re not perfect but we’re trying to do better and we believe we can make a difference with the small actions we take.

We are:

Taking steps to improve our carbon footprint (no pun intended!).
Holding the University accountable.
Being an example to the wider Huddersfield community.
Referencing sustainability in every new hire we make.
Engaging our student groups on this issue.
Making sure our purchases are ethical.
Encouraging and incentivising students and staff to use non-carbon/public transport.

We’re more than just talk, our environmental policy has a direct impact on what we do and how we do it.

From reducing energy consumption and minimizing waste to embracing green technologies and supporting local initiatives, we're here to guide you on your journey to a more sustainable lifestyle. Explore our resources, tips, and ideas tailored to fit any living situation, because sustainability knows no bounds.

Change your light bulbs for LEDs or energy efficient bulbs
Ditch those plastic water bottles and get a reusable one!
Get yourself a bamboo toothbrush
No more disposable coffee cups! You often get a discount for using a reusable one.
We use so much toilet paper, why not try bamboo or recycled alternatives?
Instead of cling film, you could try a beeswax wrap.
If you use cotton pads for your skincare, you can get cloth ones instead!

Lifestyle

"Be the change you want to see in the world." - Ghandi

There are many small changes you can make to your life to ensure you're being as green as you can. Here you'll find some of our favourites.

Guide to running a sustainable event

There Is No Planet B

Do you worry about all the things you could do to make the planet better but struggle where to start? This is the book for you! There Is No Planet B provides big picture perspectives in an accessible and entertaining way – it’s a great place to start.

Surrounded By Idiots

Have you ever found yourself trying to talk about the climate crisis with your family over dinner and it’s like talking to a brick wall? Or a well-meaning friend who doesn’t really get the gravity of the situation? Maybe it’s starting to feel like you’re surrounded by idiots… This book is all about learning to communicate with people who have different styles of speech and sharing information. With this in your arsenal, you’re on your way to climate activism nobody can say no to!

Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things

This book is all about reimagining how we assign value, instead of just aiming to reduce your waste. If you are trying to be a more sustainable shopper, this one might take your fancy.

No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference

Everyone knows of Greta Thunberg, but are you well-versed in what she’s said? This book is an easy read of some of Greta’s most impactful speeches, perfect for if you need a little inspiration. She proves ones and for all that we can all make a difference.

Podcasts

Sustainababble

If you get confused about what you should or shouldn’t be doing regarding the environment, comedy can help! In this weekly podcast, the hosts try to make sense of all the info out there, so you don’t have to.

http://www.sustainababble.fish/

The YIKES Podcast

Sometimes it’s hard to take on the whole world. The YIKES Podcast aims to takes some of the burden away so it doesn’t completely overwhelm you. They break down issues in an intersectional and accessible way to help you find your way.

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-yikes-podcast/id1498623503

Mothers of Invention

If you’re looking for climate solutions with a feminist angle, this is made for you! This podcast gives a platform to women who have been fighting to claim the earth back for decades around the world.

https://www.mothersofinvention.online/

Global Yaadie

Global Yaadie allows you to discover sustainable development through the perspective of “a Jamaican living outside of Jamaica”. Join your host as she travels across the globe, gathering different perspectives and starting new conversations on climate change.

https://globalyaadie.com/

Films

Before the Flood

Featuring Leonardo DiCaprio, this film explores how climate change is affecting the world. Watch as Leo’s character experiences the effects first hand.

Available on Prime Video and Disney+.

2040

If you’re more of a documentary buff, you should check out 2040. Instead of focusing on the negative, it tells a story of what we could achieve together. What does your 2040 look like?

Available to buy on YouTube.

David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet

Nobody does wildlife documentaries like David Attenborough! This film shows our impact on not only the environment, but the wildlife that shares it with us.

Available on Netflix.

My Octopus Teacher

Another one for animal lovers is My Octopus Teacher, an award-winning documentary that follows a year in the life of an octopus as captured by a deep sea diver. Through their relationship, you can see the effect global warming is having on the ocean.

Available on Netflix.

Travel is one of the biggest polluters in the UK but it's essential, right? Maybe we can cut down our travel emissions together.