Thousands of items left behind by departing students from University of Warwick were given a new lease of life thanks to the annual Donation Drive.
This year saw students donate 9.5 tonnes of items, an 9% increase from 2024. Around 3.1 tonnes of items – including kitchenware, homeware, sports equipment, and books – were reused on campus through the University’s Kitchen Kit Market, which welcomed 1,254 students during Welcome Week.
Donations from the project raised over £5,100 for local charity Carriers of Hope, which supports refugees, asylum seekers, and families facing hardship. Evelin Sanderson-Nichols, Sustainability Coordinator at the University of Warwick, said: “When thousands of students move out at the same time, the amount of waste produced can be overwhelming – and even perfectly reusable items can end up in general waste.
“The Donation Drive gives items a second life, supports students with the cost of living, and benefits a local charity. It’s a simple, practical way to reduce waste and lower our environmental impact.”
With help from 44 volunteers, including members of Warwick’s Green Champions network, the Energy and Sustainability Team sorted and prepared donations for redistribution. In total, 6.6 tonnes of items were reused, including 3.1 tonnes distributed through the Kitchen Kit Market.
Danielle Joyce, Head of Client Services at Carriers of Hope, said: “We are incredibly grateful to the University of Warwick and its students for their generosity.
“The donated items make a real difference for families and individuals in urgent need, helping to provide comfort and practical support at a difficult time.” Now in its second year, the Donation Drive forms a key part of Warwick’s sustainability strategy.
By keeping items in use through sharing, refurbishing, or donating, the University and its students help reduce waste, promote a circular economy, and contribute to the University’s ‘zero to landfill’ commitment.
