The University of Chester is in the running for two Green Gown Awards 2026 in recognition of its commitment to environmental best practice and community impact.
Its Build Back Together – Reaching the Last Mile initiative is shortlisted in the Creating Impact category, while Transforming Campus Catering Through Sustainability, Inclusion and Student Partnership is recognised in the Campus Health, Food and Drink category.
Dr Namrata Bhattacharya-Mis, associate professor in geography and environment and programme leader for natural hazard management at the University of Chester, said: “This project shows the transformative impact that can be achieved when communities are empowered to lead change.
“By combining local insight with academic expertise, we’ve helped create practical solutions that not only address flood risk but also strengthen community resilience and unlock funding opportunities that may otherwise have been out of reach.”
Build Back Together focuses on the Aston Ingham community in Herefordshire, who collaborated with the university to address flood risk after being identified as too small for council funding.
The partnership combined local knowledge with academic expertise, using flood mapping, fieldwork and wireless sensors to gather real-time evidence.
This data secured support from Gloucestershire and Shropshire councils and led to the development of a community-driven flood warning system.
The project continues to generate long-term impact through a linked PhD study and highlights the effectiveness of community-centred decision-making in environmental resilience.
The University of Chester’s second shortlisted initiative has transformed campus catering to promote sustainability, inclusion and student wellbeing.
The project achieved a 25 per cent reduction in food waste through improved planning, menu adjustments, and real-time operational decisions.
Student Race Advocates worked with catering teams to address cultural barriers for international students and create more inclusive dining environments.
Paula Martindale, head of hospitality and events, said: “We’re delighted that this collaborative work has been recognised through a Green Gown Awards shortlist.
“By listening to our students and empowering our catering teams, we’ve shown that sustainability, inclusion and wellbeing can go hand in hand.
“The initiative has created meaningful benefits for our community while also reducing our environmental impact.”
The Green Gown Awards, established in 2004 by the Environmental Association for Universities and Colleges (EAUC), celebrate exceptional sustainability efforts across higher and further education in the UK and Ireland.
Winners will be announced on November 16, 2026.