Sustainability of research
Committed to delivering excellent research with impact, the University of Salford holds itself to the highest standards of research integrity through honesty, transparency and rigour.
Our sustainability framework
As a signatory to the Concordat for the Environmental Sustainability of Research and Innovation Practice, we share the ambition for the UK to continue delivering cutting-edge research, but in a more environmentally responsible and sustainable way.
We recognise the need to change how we conduct research and innovation as well as promote wider solutions and agree to take shared action now and in the future to reduce and eliminate our own negative environmental impacts and emissions and achieve the transition to sustainable practices.
Leadership and systemic change
Our Sustainability Strategy and Delivery Plans include commitment to increase the environmental sustainability of all research and innovation practice.
Sustainable infrastructure
Our Net Zero Carbon plan and Sustainable Construction Framework ensures that our infrastructure is developed in an environmentally sustainable way.
Our ISO 14001 and ISO 50001 certified Environmental and Energy Management System supports operational environmental sustainability. We offer guidance and support to research colleagues through the Green Impact and LEAF (Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework) programmes. University of Salford currently has two labs with LEAF Bronze (Environmental Lab and Megalab Teaching Lab) and are working to have all labs at the University running as sustainably as possible. Our labs which have attained Bronze are already looking at actions they can take that are required for Silver and Gold LEAF accreditation.
Sustainable procurement
Our Responsible Procurement plan ensures procurement decisions are influenced to prioritise more environmentally sustainable options and apply principles such as the circular economy.
Business and academic travel
Our Sustainable Travel Plan is under development, however, we advocate for reducing travel required for research and innovation activities to reduce carbon emissions while considering inclusivity and being mindful of the needs of those travelling.
We support the provision of virtual or hybrid conferences, events and meetings using sustainable systems.
Collaborations and partnerships
We will actively seek opportunities for collaboration and partnerships within and external to the university. An example is LEAF (Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework). Developed by UCL, this is a framework to enhance the efficiency of labs and facilitates sharing of best practice resulting in more sustainable practices.
Environmental impact and reporting data
We report publicly our annual carbon emissions data and progress on environmental sustainability.