We’re proud to announce that The University of Manchester has been awarded the prestigious Fairtrade University two-star award, recognising our ongoing commitment to ethical sourcing, sustainability, and global responsibility.

The award is delivered as a partnership between the Fairtrade Foundation and Students Organising for Sustainability (SOS-UK). It reflects the hard work and dedication of staff and students across the University who have championed fair trade principles in our procurement, catering, and community engagement.

We have been awarded Fairtrade two-star status, which recognises that we are: embedding Fairtrade into our strategy and operations; actively engaging students and staff in campaigns and education; supporting ethical procurement and supply chains; and collaborating with local and global partners to promote social justice.

This milestone builds on our previous one-star rating, demonstrating our commitment to sustainability and meeting the goals under the University’s Environmental Strategy.

Alison Shedlock, Director of Campus Operations, said: “We’re thrilled to have received a two-star Fairtrade University award.  This step change is testament to the hard work across a multitude of departments who embed sustainability at the heart of their operation and service.  We continue to support work towards a fairer, more sustainable world.”

Julia Durkan, Head of Environmental Sustainability, said: “This is a fantastic achievement that shows how we’re using our role as a global institution to help drive real change. Responsible consumption and ethical sourcing are central to our Environmental Sustainability Strategy, and this recognition reflects the difference our staff and students are making in building fairer, more sustainable supply chains that support communities around the world.”

• Find out more about sustainability at The University of Manchester.