In July, the Sustainability Hub was joined at the Circular Economy briefing by Nona McDuff, Head of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. She confirms that “Moving away from the traditional linear economy requires a seismic shift in the way people think about ownership and requires businesses to transform both the way they manufacture (from disposable to built to last/ refurbish) and the way they ‘offer’ their products (from permanent ownership to temporary use). As Head of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion this workshop has crystallised the synergies between two of the University's ethics and social responsibility agendas. A key outcome of the new Equality, Diversity and Inclusion strategy is to ensure that our students and staff are equipped with the employability skills to contribute to creating and supporting an international, inclusive and sustainable economy.”

* Each issue of eco-bytes will feature collaborative activities with colleagues across the institution.

On 16th July, 20 student volunteers undertook auditor training, before heading out to audit our Green Impact teams, where they discovered how staff have been saving money and energy within their departments. Staff were thoroughly impressed with the standard of work. Ruth Cope from the business school said, "our auditors were friendly and professional. They asked sensible questions and suggested ways we could improve." Student feedback was equally approving, with volunteers commenting on the valuable transferable skills they gained. A big thank you to everyone who took part this year! Teams and auditors will be recognised at an award ceremony in September. If you'd like to start a team contact Elise Barron.

Kingston flood expert Dr Norman Cheung, senior lecturer in the School of Geography, Geology and Environment, was called on by SKY News on the morning of 29th June to explain the causes of extreme weather that has battered parts of the UK. Click here to watch the clip.

The AGM of the London Universities Environment Group was held last month at The Spring in Vauxhall to celebrate the achievements of the group members in making their universities more sustainable. In the elections our Director Dr Victoria Hands was re-elected as co-chair of the group and Dr Kat Eames will continue as the group Secretary as well as being elected to the Curriculum Officer role. The aims of the group are to share best practice between London Universities on topics such as environmental management, sustainable procurement, carbon reductions and sustainability in curriculum. The meeting and workshop were captured by Creative Connections as a wall mural which will be used in our next meeting to help start to create a vision for what the ideal sustainable university of the future would look like.

Chantal Beaudoin has been shadowing Hub Director Dr Victoria Hands and volunteering for the Hub this summer. Previously Chantal founded the R4 program (rethink, reduce, reuse, recycle) as the Environmental Coordinator at Concordia University. She worked at the London School of Economics & Political Science with Victoria from 2008 until the end of 2011 implementing the University’s zero waste strategy. Chantal will be starting as Head of Sustainability for Grant MacEwan University, Canada in August 2012. She notes: “It has been wonderful to be able to contribute to Kingston’s Sustainability Hub and witness the vision and impact of the team across the institution. I was impressed with the principles throughout Led by Learning which guide the work of the Hub. I was fortunate to participate in the Circular Economy briefing; it is now clear to me that the move towards Zero Waste needs to go one step further to start with REDESIGN of products and services towards a circular economy. I’m grateful to Kingston University for the rich learning experience that I’m taking with me to my new role.”

Enough salad will be binned in the country this summer to fill an Olympic size swimming pool. The startling statistic forms part of Surrey County Council’s Love Food Surrey Campaign which encourages people to waste less food. Through shopping smarter and reusing leftovers, it’s estimated the average family could save up to £50 on their monthly shopping bill. If like us you have been startled by the figure and wish to act upon it, take a look at the Love Food Surrey website for hints and tips and information on how to waste less and slash shopping bills.

A one day conference entitled 'The future for Town Centres: Death or Evolution?' will take place at Kingston University on 10th September 2012. The event organised by Dr Pete Garside and Professor Sarah Sayce with the South London Partnership of Local Authorities will consist of key speaker presentations, workshops and a panel session. Places booked before 13th August will attract a £10 discount. Click here to find out more.