This significant accomplishment not only recognises the workshop's commitment to sustainability but also aligns with the University's sustainability efforts and its role as a signatory of the SDG Accord, supporting the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).  

Through the collaborative efforts of technicians, staff, and students, supported by the School of Design and Creative Arts (SDCA) and the University's Sustainability team, the workshop has taken a comprehensive approach to integrating sustainable initiatives that contribute directly to SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). 

The workshop has also fostered a strong sense of collaboration both within the University and with external partners through team-building workshops and networking with alumni and industry contacts. 

A holistic approach to waste management 

The workshop has transformed its waste management practices with a focus on reuse and recycling. Key initiatives include: 

• Repurposing materials: Fabric offcuts and plastic containers used in the printing and dyeing processes are repurposed wherever possible. 

• Innovative recycling: Used paper and scrap paper are broken down into pulp and remade into usable paper, minimising waste. In collaboration with alumni, who send back dead stock fabrics from the companies they work with, the workshop has also significantly reduced its fabric consumption, showcasing a commitment to circular practices. 

• Hazardous waste management: Dye waste is collected separately to reduce hazardous waste, with the aim of finding a process to separate dye from water for reuse, reducing energy needs. Student-prepared pigment pastes are stored for reuse, cutting down on the need for new pigment mixing and reducing waste. A reference book catalogues specific recipes to achieve particular colour values, limiting trial and error and further reducing waste. 

These systems not only decrease environmental impact but also engage students in sustainable practices from day one, reinforcing the University’s commitment to SDG 12 and responsible resource management. 

Educating for a sustainable future 

Sustainability is central to the workshop's educational framework. All new users, including students and researchers, undergo induction sessions that emphasise eco-friendly practices, such as minimising waste and efficiently measuring materials. 

These sessions are reinforced with digital badges that certify each user’s understanding of the workshop’s sustainability protocols. Sally Yates, the Technical Sustainability Champion for this area, has been instrumental in ensuring that sustainable practices are ingrained in every aspect of the workshop’s operations. 

Energy efficiency and sustainable purchasing 

Energy management is another key area of focus. The workshop ensures that: 

• Energy-intensive equipment, such as drying cabinets, is operated only when full, minimising unnecessary energy consumption. 

• A shift from synthetic to natural dye extracts is underway, with suppliers meeting high environmental standards, such as Bluesign and GOTS-certified companies, contributing to a greener supply chain. 

Leadership and support for sustainability 

The journey to LEAF Bronze has been driven by a dedicated leadership team. With sustainability embedded in every aspect of workshop operations and as a standing agenda item in programme meetings, the Printed Textiles and Dye Workshop is committed to advancing sustainable practices.

Rainer Fernandes, Technical Sustainability Officer commented: “Congratulations to the Print and Dye Textile Workshop on achieving the LEAF Bronze Award! This remarkable accomplishment not only highlights your commitment to sustainability but also aligns to the University’s sustainability goals. We hope you continue to innovate and collaborate towards a greener future.” 

Nik Hunt, Environmental Manager, added: “This is an outstanding result and not merely a tick box exercise, the sustainability practices are truly embedded from induction, through the teaching and in the operational processes. It should be seen as the benchmark approach to how education for sustainable development (ESD) should be embedded into our teaching practices especially in practical areas. Well done to Sally Yates and her technical and teaching colleagues in the School of Design and Creative Arts.”