In October 2025 and February 2026, Dr Hanmei Chen (Senior Lecturer in Architectural Structures and Construction at the School of Architecture)) led two successful SmartSort recycling campaigns as part of the University’s Living Lab project.
Read more about the Living Lab Project (Domestic Waste on Campus) here.
The initiatives were funded by the 2025 ESRC Festival of Social Science and the RDIF Fund, and delivered in collaboration with colleagues from the Sustainability Team, Management, and Law.
Titled “SmartSort: Engaging Recycling Game for Awareness and Colour-Sorting Efficiency” and “Responsible Consumption: Investigating Consumer Behaviour Alignment and Effective Recycling Strategies in the University,” the two campaigns engaged both local communities and University of Liverpool students in hands-on sustainability activities.
Through an interactive recycling game, participants explored how colour-sorted waste separation improves recycling efficiency, reduces carbon footprints, and supports more responsible consumption.
The activities also raised awareness of how to use mixed-recycling bins correctly and more effectively, helping participants better understand common recycling mistakes and best practice.
Student volunteers played a central role in delivering the campaigns, gaining valuable experience in sustainability practice, teamwork, and community engagement. Participation also contributed towards the Liverpool Advantage Sustainability Award, supporting students’ professional development while advancing environmental awareness across campus and beyond.
Find out more about the University of Liverpool's Sustainability Strategy here.