Bee Circular UoM is a student-led initiative, by Haojun Shuai (BSc Environmental Management, School of Environment, Education, and Development). It’s focused on reducing food waste and fostering sustainability within the University of Manchester and its surrounding community through strategic partnerships and volunteer engagement.

Our collaboration with local retailers, such as Sainsbury’s and Pret A Manger, to redistribute surplus food to those in need, is a clear demonstration of our commitment to minimising waste while supporting social responsibility efforts. Our mission aligns with the University’s Environmental Sustainability goals of fostering a circular economy and making a tangible social impact. This alignment has contributed to the University’s recognition as one of the top institutions for social and environmental impact globally (Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024). This not only helps reduce food waste but also directly supports local communities. By transforming surplus food into opportunities for support and engagement, we demonstrate how small actions can lead to substantial social and environmental benefits. Importantly, our principles of environmental stewardship and community engagement are in perfect alignment with the University’s sustainability goals.  

We are also excited to announce that we will soon create a project page on Neighbourly similar to this one to further engage volunteers and partners in our mission: Dunn School Green Group Manchester

Recent highlights

Exploring Castlefield Viaduct as a model for urban green space development 

Recently, Bee Circular UoM organised an educational visit to Castlefield Viaduct, an impressive example of how urban green spaces can be repurposed to promote sustainability and well-being. This trip was led by Haojun Shuai and was attended by members of the University’s extended Sustainability team. The group was guided by Beth, a Master’s student in Museum Management, who is currently managing the Castlefield Viaduct project with the National Trust. Beth’s expertise and enthusiasm illuminated how transforming neglected spaces into vibrant green areas can contribute to Manchester’s climate resilience and community engagement. Dr Anke Bernau, the Faculty of Humanities Associate Dean for Environmental Sustainability, noted how the group were guided through some of the historical, cultural and ecological aims of the project. They also heard about the central role that local communities played in its design and continue to play in its present and future. Do visit if you haven’t had a chance to do so yet! 

Integrating climate action initiatives with Bee Circular UoM 

This visit also aligned with other ongoing University sustainability initiatives led by Anke and Dr Maggy Fostier, the Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health Associate Dean for Environmental Sustainability. Anke’s current UMRI-funded project, MossWorlds, considers the cultural and natural histories of urban moss and its potential role in climate change mitigation. Maggy’s interest in moorland conservation further supports these efforts, emphasising the importance of protecting and restoring native habitats, which play a crucial role in carbon storage and biodiversity enhancement. 

These projects, alongside Bee Circular UoM, reflect the University’s commitment to an integrated approach to sustainability. Together, we aim to highlight the role of nature-based solutions and promote using natural resources like moss and moorlands to tackle climate challenges. 

Get involved: Join us in making a difference 

We are actively seeking support from students, staff, and the wider community to expand our impact: 

• Student volunteers: Engage in our food collection and distribution efforts, develop sustainability skills, and contribute to meaningful community projects. 

• Staff and faculty support: Share your expertise, mentor student leaders, and connect us with university resources to amplify our mission. 

• Community and corporate Ppartners: Collaborate on innovative projects to enhance supply chain efficiency, reduce disposal costs, and contribute to our shared sustainability goals. 

Bee Circular UoM and our broader ES initiatives aim to foster a more sustainable community and create a greener, more resilient future—one meal, one project, and one green space at a time!