Birmingham City University partnered with Veolia
The partnership aimed to improve campus recycling rates, introduce food waste collection in student accommodation, and achieve compliance with upcoming Simpler Recycling legislation.
The university situated in the heart of Birmingham helps approximately 31,000 students from over 100 countries achieve their future goals. With a focus on practice-based learning, they provide the best opportunities for future success. Veolia has been working with the university since 2015, supporting them with recycling and sustainability initiatives, with the existing contract being renewed in 2024.
Key Outcomes
Recycling increased from 34% to 41%
6 tonnes of food waste collected annually
Compliance achieved ahead of legislation deadline
Student accommodation recycling reached 25%
The Challenge: Improving Recycling & Meeting Simpler Recycling Requirements
As part of their sustainability programme, BCU came to Veolia seeking to further improve its overall recycling rate, which was at 34%. With Simpler Recycling coming into effect, the university needed to prepare and comply with the legislation to avoid costly fees. There was also the challenge of further integrating a food waste collection service into accommodation areas, known as University Locks, while increasing awareness and interest from students. This would not only help comply with Simpler Recycling but it will also increase recycling rates, boost sustainability and save costs.
The Solution: Food Waste Collection & Student Engagement Programme
With student engagement and feedback indicating a strong desire for a food waste service, BCU consulted with Veolia and other universities to develop a robust rollout plan that ensured minimal disruption to student life. We worked closely with the university by providing educational materials on how best to dispose of food waste to help ensure correct waste disposal practices and the wider benefits of recycling. After a plan was created, we then initiated a trial collection in one of the accommodation blocks.
Results: Increased Recycling Rates & Legislative Compliance
The trial of the food waste service was successful, which allowed us to implement the service across the two remaining accommodation blocks. This service allowed the university to:
- Meet Simpler Recycling legislation ahead of the deadline
- Overall campus recycling increased to 41%
- Recycling rates within the university accommodation rose to 25%
- 6 tonnes of food waste collected over the year from student accommodation
- Educational materials continue to educate students and staff on the importance of recycling
This shows how Veolia has successfully implemented waste streams into a contract, helping to not only meet legislation but increase sustainability targets and overall efficiency. By increasing recycling rates and continuing to engage and educate students, we will ensure a more sustainable future for the university campus and accommodation.
Find out more about how we work with the education sector.
“The introduction of food waste recycling into University Locks has been a great success and demonstrates a strong working relationship between BCU and Veolia. Veolia supported the University with their industry knowledge and expertise, helping to design bespoke signage and food waste journey posters to educate our students on the benefits of recycling.”
Julie Stanyer, Facilities Manager (Contracts), Birmingham City University
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