Textile workshop makes history with LEAF Bronze Award | News and events | Loughborough University

Oct 16, 2024

In a landmark achievement for sustainable practices in the arts, the Printed Textiles and Dye Workshop at Loughborough University has made history as one of the first Creative Arts workshops in the UK to earn the LEAF (Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework) Bronze certification.

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:

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:

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.”