University of Liverpool and SUEZ slash waste by 43%, closing in on 2025 target

The University of Liverpool (UoL), together with long-time partner SUEZ, set an ambitious target to reduce its general waste by half across its campuses by 2025. The University operates a large estate comprising a mix of facilities including teaching spaces, offices and student accommodation.

The University produces a variety of waste streams – general waste, dry mixed recycling, furniture, metal, wood and electrical waste. In the past several years, UoL and SUEZ have worked continuously to further the University’s sustainability journey, which saw an increase in recycling rates, general waste bin reduction and enhanced engagement of its staff and student population.

More recently, the University set an ambitious goal of significantly reducing its general waste production by 2025.

SUEZ implemented practical solutions to improve the campus’ waste management processes. This included improved waste segregation and infrastructure for specific waste streams, ensuring proper disposal and recycling.

The University, with SUEZ’s guidance, also found creative ways to repurpose discarded items, prioritising re-use and responsible disposal.

To ensure the University receives the best possible waste management service, we conduct regular service reviews, including waste data analysis for each building and area. This gives the University informed decisions about adjusting waste management practices.

With all practical solutions firmly in place and running, the University is making remarkable progress towards its goal. From a baseline tonnage, current reduction as of July 2024 is 43.11%.

This positive progress highlights the University’s strong performance as it steadily advances towards its target. This achievement goes beyond improving recycling rates – it also enhances waste collection efficiency and reduces costs.

With a dedicated Waste and Recycling Officer now overseeing waste management across the campus and driving continuous improvement, the University is showing its committed investment in waste reduction and recycling initiatives. This, in turn, is inspiring both staff and students to get involved by their active participation in waste management campaigns.

Moving forward, SUEZ plans to increase the frequency of waste audits so the team can be even more responsive to the University’s needs and ensure its waste management systems is always operating at peak efficiency. To further raise awareness and engagement, both parties are planning events to engage the entire campus community in making sustainable choices.