Creating a Sustainable Postgraduate Community


At Hatfield College, sustainability is an integral part of college life. As part of Durham University’s wider sustainability strategy, we are committed to reducing our environmental impact while fostering a culture of responsibility, innovation, and environmental awareness within our postgraduate community.

Our Environmental Action Plan sets out clear priorities and measurable targets across energy, waste, biodiversity, transport, and sustainable living.

Energy & Carbon Reduction

We are improving the energy efficiency of our buildings through:

  • Annual energy audits

  • LED lighting and motion sensor installations

  • Optimised heating schedules

  • “Switch off” awareness campaigns for students and staff

Target: 15% reduction in electricity and gas consumption by 2026.

Waste & Recycling

We are working towards a circular approach to waste management by:

  • Standardising recycling facilities across accommodation and communal areas

  • Introducing clearer signage and colour-coded bins

  • Expanding food waste collection and composting

  • Hosting end-of-term “Hatfield Swap Shop” reuse events

  • Reducing single-use plastics in catering

Targets:

  • 70% recycling rate by 2026

  • Zero waste to landfill by 2030

Water Conservation

We are reducing water use through:

  • Low-flow taps, showerheads and dual-flush systems

  • Regular maintenance and leak inspections

  • Awareness campaigns promoting responsible use

Sustainable Transport

Durham is a compact and walkable city, and we encourage:

  • Walking and cycling

  • Use of public transport

  • Participation in cycle-to-work and bike hire schemes

  • Car-sharing where appropriate

Secure cycle storage is maintained and regularly reviewed.

Biodiversity & Green Spaces

Our college grounds play an important role in supporting local ecosystems. We are:

  • Developing a biodiversity plan for green spaces

  • Introducing pollinator-friendly planting and wildflower areas

  • Installing bird and bat boxes

  • Hosting annual “Green Day” volunteering events

Target: 10% increase in biodiversity value by 2026.

Sustainable Catering & Procurement

We are committed to responsible sourcing and low-impact dining by:

  • Prioritising local and ethical suppliers

  • Expanding plant-based menu options

  • Reducing single-use packaging

  • Promoting seasonal produce

  • Monitoring food waste volumes

Target: 50% of suppliers to meet sustainability criteria by 2026.

Student Engagement & Community Action

Sustainability at Hatfield is a shared responsibility. We support student-led initiatives through:

  • The JCR Green Team

  • Awareness campaigns such as Energy Week and Waste-Free February

  • Sustainability updates in newsletters and induction materials

  • Recognition schemes such as the “Green Room” award

Postgraduate students are encouraged to get involved, propose initiatives, and contribute to shaping a greener college environment.

Monitoring & Accountability

Progress is monitored throughout the year, with:

  • Quarterly reviews of energy use

  • Termly reporting on waste and water

  • Annual biodiversity surveys

  • An annual sustainability report shared with Durham University

The plan is reviewed each year in consultation with staff, students, and the Sustainability Committee to ensure continuous improvement.

Our Commitment

Hatfield College is proud to play its part in building a more sustainable future. By combining practical action with community engagement, we aim to create a resilient, environmentally responsible college that reflects the values of our postgraduate community.

Hatfield MCR

Within college, we, the Hatfield MCR, keep sustainability, accountability and the environment in mind in the everyday running of the MCR, especially when planning our events and campaigns. This may look like reducing our single use waste, encouraging and actioning correct recycling, cultivating use of our garden spaces (both outside the MCR Cottage and in the JBH Courtyard), and more.

If you have any ideas or campaigns to further the MCR’s and/or College’s environmental endeavors please get in touch with our MCR Green Officer Lauren at: hatfield.mcrvicepresident@durham.ac.uk or via the Instagram @hatfield.mcr.

Photo of the MCR Cottage courtyard from the @hatfieldcollege Instagram.

  • Lauren

    VICE PRESIDENT AND GREEN OFFICER
    PhD Archaeology/Geography