It’s been a busy few months across environmental sustainability at the University. Here are just some of the highlights and ways you can get involved.

Embedding sustainability in Manchester 2035  

The University is shaping its strategic ambitions for the next decade through the development of our Manchester 2035 strategy, building on the vision and values of Our Future. Phase one focused on consultation, with workshops involving students, staff, community members, and civic partners. Sustainability has been a key focus, championed by the Environmental Sustainability Team. 

Highlights include a student working lunch where over 30 participants shared their creative visions for a sustainable campus. It was great to see how many of our students are passionate about this topic. A staff breakfast session was also attended by 50 colleagues from various roles, showcasing a shared commitment across the University. Internal governance groups, like the Nature and Carbon Action Groups, have also prioritised sustainability in planning. 

Phase two now invites staff, students, alumni, and partners to provide feedback on the proposed direction, building on phase one’s success in making sustainability central to Manchester 2035.  

Bee Cup: a sustainable success 

Since the launch of the Bee Cup initiative in September 2024, we’ve made significant strides in reducing single-use paper cup waste across our campus cafés: 

• Over 29,843 reusable items used, which equates to 14,921 hot drinks (cup and lid). 
• 2,716 kg of CO₂ emissions saved. 

This is a fantastic achievement, demonstrating the power of collective action. Based on current trends, we’re on track to save up to 8,880 kg of CO₂ in the next year! 

• Download the Vytal app and start using the Bee Cup. 

Improving your travel habits in 2025 

Say “yellow” to the Bee Network! 

All bus services in Greater Manchester are now part of the Bee Network, making travel across the city simpler, cheaper, and more sustainable. Here’s what’s new: 

• Bee bus tickets: affordable and straightforward payment options. Get a summary of ticket changes. 
• Improved app: track live buses and plan your journey seamlessly. 
• Better buses: hundreds of enhanced vehicles to improve your experience. 

Free travel for staff and students: Don’t forget, university staff and students can still enjoy free travel on the 147 bus service, connecting Sackville Street and Oxford Road areas of campus. 

Walk, Wheel, or Cycle! The Bee Network also focuses on connecting walking, wheeling, and cycling routes with buses, trams, and trains. If cycling is your thing and you are a staff member or postgrad, why not join UMBUG the University’s Bike User Group, for tips, news and support! 

Sustainable business travel made easier: Got a meeting or conference that requires business travel? Don’t forget to take advantage of our Travel Top-Up Fund! This fund helps cover the additional costs of choosing more sustainable travel options, such as taking a train or bus instead of flying. Make the greener choice and let us support you along the way! 

• Further information here on the ‘top up fund’ tab: Before Travelling | Directorate of Finance | StaffNet | The University of Manchester