Oxford Brookes became the first UK University to have an operational geothermal heating system in 2022, and has demonstrated their ongoing commitment to reducing their carbon emissions by signing the ZCOP Charter and becoming a Net Zero Carbon organisation by 2040.

We have selected a venue within easy reach of public transport. All guests from outside of Oxford are encouraged to travel by train, and use the regular bus service directly to the venue. Where this is not possible, details of a local taxi firm with electric vehicles are available on this website.

The wellbeing of our guests is at the forefront of our mind when designing and planning our events. We have incorporated regular breaks in our programme, and have selected a venue with plenty of natural daylight. All guests are encouraged to take a walk around the University grounds and enjoy some fresh air during the breaks.

The venue's water strategy and action plan includes high level targets to reduce water usage across the university. This includes the installation of water saving fixtures on showers, taps and toilets in their buildings. Smart water meters and real time monitoring to locate hidden water leaks and resolve quickly. Rainwater harvesting for use in toilets and irrigation.

coming soon

The venue has an efficient recycling program for food, plastic and glass. 

Crockery & glassware will be used for serving refreshments and food, rather than disposable table wear.

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Food waste will be kept to a minimum by applying learnings from past events and ordering food for 70% of the attendees. Food served outside of the kitchen will be carefully managed, so that there is the option to use any left over ingredients in the University Cafe.

A healthy, plant based lunch will be provided. Ingredients will be seasonal and locally sourced where possible.

Through schemes such as the Oxford Hub, Oxford Brookes Volunteer Centre and Team Oxford, the University works closely with local businesses and charities within the community that rely on volunteers. Both staff and students are encouraged to dedicate some of their free time to supporting local initiatives that have a positive impact on the environment and the local community.

Oxford Brookes University has an active Biodiversity Advisory Group committed to monitoring, informing and influencing the ongoing development of the Biodiversity Strategy. Some of the key initiatives include Planting for Pollinators, Marston Road Quad and Rewilding at Harcourt Hill. Further details on these projects and other initiatives can be found in the Brookes University Sustainability Report.