UCL Accomodation launches check-out donation trial!

Each year, a significant amount of waste is generated during move-out – whether that is fresh food, furniture, books or clothes.

Last year, during the check-out weekend, we collected 15 extra tonnes of recycling, 20 extra tonnes of general waste and 3 extra tonnes of food on top of the normal monthly waste collections. Combined, that’s the weight of 20 cars or more than 12 times the weight of all 54,250 tennis balls that are used at Wimbledon each summer!

We are delighted that the Hall Team at reception will be accepting donations from May 2024.

This is a part of the UCL Accommodation ‘moving out donations’ pilot project, which is available at 4 Halls: Astor College, John Dodgson House, John Adams Hall, and New Hall.

The items must be handed to the Hall Team at reception and not left in bedrooms or the kitchen. Anything received by the Hall Team will either be used within our UCL community, or donated to:

• British Heart Foundation
• Battersea Dogs & Cats Home

The following items will be accepted:

• Clothes, jackets, accessories, shoes – must be clean, washed, with no rips, tears, or stains
• Books, CDs, Vinyl records 
• Small electricals – must be working
• Kitchen utensils
• Homewares – must be in good condition
• Brand new bedding in unopened packaging
• Towels

This project has been designed to help us connect with the local community and give residents an opportunity to ensure they are moving out in a sustainable way and reducing waste left at the end of the year. 

Get involved! The more impact and resident engagement that we can capture during this pilot stage, the more likely we will expand this offer to all UCL Accommodation Halls in the next academic year.

Are you moving out of somewhere that isn't part of the trial? You can read our full guide on moving out sustainably for tips other places to donate below. 

Read our guide to moving out sustainably