June was a month of eco-conscious celebration at the Dunn School, as we participated in the Great Big Green Week (10-18 June 2023), the UK's premier event for community-driven climate change action. The Green Group members took the reins, coordinating a series of events that showcased our institute's commitment to sustainability.

The festivities, aptly named the "Green Festival", began on the 12th of June. Our workshop staff hoisted the Green Group Flag, marking the official start of a week filled with engaging and eco-friendly activities.

The festival offered a variety of initiatives designed to promote sustainable living and reduce waste. A refill station was set up, offering essential household items and reducing the need for single-use packaging. A plant and seed exchange encouraged biodiversity, while a bake sale featuring locally sourced cakes highlighted the importance of supporting local producers. A clothes swap event also took place, promoting the principles of reusing and recycling.

One of the standout features of the festival was a repair café, a collaborative effort with Share Oxford. This initiative allowed attendees to repair an array of items, from bicycles to clothing and household goods, reinforcing the concept of mending rather than discarding. A knife sharpening service was also available, promoting the idea of extending the life of our tools.

In a bid to reduce biohazard waste, the Graduate Student Association (GSA) organised an Autoclave Box Counting Challenge across all Dunn School labs.

The festival received generous support from laboratory suppliers Mettler Toledo, Appleton Woods, Thermo Fisher, Starlab, and Merck. Home improvement retailer B&Q also contributed, donating plants for the plant and seed exchange. The event's proceeds were donated to One Tree Planted, a non-profit organisation that plants a tree for every dollar donated, amplifying the festival's positive environmental impact.

Saroj Saurya, the Chair of the Green Group, encapsulated the festival's mission: "The Dunn School’s Green Festival aimed to raise awareness about climate change and waste reduction while actively engaging the Dunn School community in eco-friendly activities.”

The Dunn School Green Festival was a resounding success, serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of sustainability and our individual roles in fostering a greener future.