'EcoDU is a student environmental justice society, run by Durham undergraduate and postgraduate students!

You've all been busy over the summer sharing photos from your biodiversity walks in Durham and beyond.

We have been shortlisted as a finalist for the Creating Impact category award in this year's UK & Ireland Green Gown Awards for our project entitled 93 to 19 – The Odorbac Initiative. Lisa Blundell, Senior Housekeeping, Cleaning and General Services Manager in our Accommodation and Commercial Services, explains more about the project and how it supports our sustainability strategy.

Well done to our Grounds Maintenance teams who have created their annual summer bedding displays around Palace Green. These beautiful displays contribute to the Northumbrian/Britain in Bloom partnership with Durham County Council.

Durham University are dedicated to maintaining our estate, which includes ancient woodland, grassland, wildflower meadows and wetland habitats, while also promoting biodiversity.

Mammal Web is a project which collates data from motion sensing cameras which are set up to photograph and monitor wild mammals. And researchers at Durham University need YOUR support in monitoring and documenting mammals in your area.

Keep tagging us in your lunchtime walk photos and videos!

Following it's launch in November 2023, the Period Dignity Pilot aims to address period poverty and ensure access to free menstrual hygiene products through vending machines and baskets placed in 22 locations across the University, accessible to both students and staff.

Durham Climate Hub invites you to join them for two talks: 'Protecting and Conserving wildlife from Tees to Tyne' by Jim Cokill, Durham Wildlife Trust and 'The researcher, the shooter and the single malt maker: 3 in a bog' by Jess Fior-Berry, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) UK Peatland Programme.

Thank you to all of the staff and students who took the time to log their actions as part of the 'Nature Nurturers Challenge' on the My Greenspace app over the past three months.

You've all been making the most of the sunshine this month and have been busy logging your positive actions to earn points and win prizes! Congratulations to our staff winners who have all earned £20 each to spend at a range of retailers.

UK & Ireland Green Gown Awards 2024 'Sustainable Institution of the Year' finalists!