As a large institution, Imperial generates many different types of waste.
We're committed to wasting less and moving towards a circular economy where materials are used for as long as possible. We'll achieve this by:
- shifting our procurement from single-use, non-recyclable items towards those that are designed for reusing, repairing and recycling, and;
- improving engagement on waste and recycling
Help with disposing of waste
We can support with bulk or specialist waste disposal, including support for confidential waste disposal, furniture recycling, electrical waste disposal and hazardous waste disposal. You can contact our team via the relevant section of the Property Report or Request portal.
If you wish to make your own arrangements for the disposal of bulk or specialist waste, you must contact our team first so that a Duty of Care meeting can be arranged and, if appropriate, the correct Waste Transfer Notes are organised.
Where does our waste go?
Waste and recycling at Imperial
- Food waste is taken to anaerobic digesters where it is used to generate green energy and a nutrient-rich digestate which is used as an agricultural fertiliser.
- Dry recyclables are taken to a London recovery facility where materials are segregated, bailed, and sent on to reprocessors for recycling.
- General waste is taken to South East London Combined Heat and Power where it's incinerated with energy recovery.
About half of our waste is general waste; almost half of this is actually recyclable material which could have been recycled if it had been disposed of properly.
Learn more about where different waste products should be disposed of on our waste streams page.
Our progress
Our progress
In the past year, we have:
Waste Strategy
Published our Waste Strategy, providing a clear framework on how we intend to achieve defined targets
Coffee grounds recycling
Established coffee grounds recycling at South Kensington and Hammersmith to divert grounds from general waste