Being Sustainable in halls

Sustainability tips for life in halls

Every resident has a part to play in cutting our environmental impact and carbon footprint. Individual actions can feel small, but when we all do them, they add up to real change for the planet. 🌎♻️

Together, we can make our halls a model of environmental responsibility and play our part in the fight against climate change.

Sustainability reminders 🏡

Help us manage energy use across our halls by doing these simple switches:

💚 Switching off lights when you leave the room

💚 Unplugging devices when not in use

💚 Not overloading sockets or using unapproved extensions

💚 Reporting any faulty appliances or switches to the maintenance team. Find out how to report issues in your hall.

Separate waste correctly

By separating waste properly, we can:

💚 Reduce our environmental impact

💚 Improve our recycling

💚 Support UAL’s wider sustainability goals

👉 Find out more about correct waste separation at your hall. 

Grab pre-loved items moving in. Donate them moving out

💚 In September, we run a Reuse Fair in halls where you can pick up pre-loved goods from last years students. From kitchen essentials to study materials, there are plenty of things you can grab for free to avoid buying new.

💚 When you move out of halls, make sure to donate what you no longer need to continue the re-use cycle! This couldn't be easier to do with Donation Cafe's running during June and July for you to drop off items.

Buy second hand 

💚 If you're in need of clothes or decor from your room, consider second hand options first. 

💚 There are plenty of charity shops offering pre-loved items that still have lots of life left. Find out the nearest charity shop near your hall.  

Make use of the Re-Use Units in Colleges

💚 Help create a circular environment where materials are given a second life by visiting the Re-Use Units across the Colleges. 

💚 Got excess materials? Leave them for someone else. Need something for a project or your room? Take what you find. It’s free and it keeps things out of the bin.

💚 Re-using materials is a great option when it comes to seasonal celebrations. Think handmade halloween costumes, Christmas decor in your hall, handmade outfits for parties and events.

👉 Find out more about Re-Use Units.

Photo credit: Earth Week 2025: Gaia Bomb workshop | Photograph: Tika Sufyan