Environmental Initiatives

Environment

Reykjavik University (RU) has signed a declaration on climate issues, committing to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and minimizing negative environmental impacts through targeted actions. Based on this declaration, an environmental task force comprised of staff members develops ideas to enhance eco-friendly operations.

Key initiatives to date include:

• Reorganizing Waste Sorting: Waste management systems have been restructured, including the removal of individual trash bins from staff offices.
• Reducing Plastic Usage: All single-use plastic containers have been removed from coffee and water stations, and staff and students are now using reusable containers for beverages.
• Cycling Facilities and EV Charging: Secure and monitored bike shelters have been installed for students, alongside charging stations offering two hours of free charging for students and staff.

In January 2021, RU partnered with the recycling company Pure North Recycling in Hveragerði to advance plastic and other recyclable material processing in Iceland. The collaboration aims to strengthen Iceland’s circular economy by prioritizing plastics and other recyclables, developing new recycling methods, increasing automation in material processing and collection, and enhancing education. This partnership is part of the national Þjóðþrifum (National Cleanup) initiative and will be integrated into projects conducted by RU's Research Center for Sustainable Development.

Sustainable Transportation

Since 2016, Reykjavik University has implemented a Transportation Policy, offering transportation grants to staff to encourage eco-friendly commuting. RU has also received Gold Certification from Hjólafærni and ÍSÍ for being a bike-friendly workplace. Each year, RU participates in the Bike to Work campaign and offers staff free bicycle checkups.

In 2018, RU became the first institution in Iceland to introduce the Zipcar car-sharing service, further supporting sustainable transportation options.

Workplace analyses reveal that RU's initiatives have significantly influenced staff commuting habits. In 2013, 83% of RU staff commuted alone by car, but by 2019, this figure had dropped to 62%. Additionally, the proportion of staff using their car less than once per week increased from 8% in 2013 to 12% in 2019.

RU's commitment to sustainable transportation demonstrates its dedication to reducing environmental impact and promoting greener commuting alternatives.