Across the two days, over 60 members of our community joined forces for the Re:Imagine Sustainability hackathon, gaining a unique opportunity to create a lasting legacy for sustainability at the University of Bath. Working in teams, they moved through the creative process with support from the University’s Sustainability team, the project's creative partners Hubbub and professional makers Positive Experience.

Students and staff explored the breadth of sustainability activity happening across our research, education, operations, community and campus life. They generated exciting ideas to increase visibility of Bath's strengths in sustainability, developed their concepts into tangible proposals and pitched their final idea to the judging panel.

Our recent Sustainability Survey showed that 92% of staff and students care deeply about sustainability. Everyone has a role to play, and sustainability must be accessible and inclusive to our community to ensure motivation is turned into meaningful impact. Our commitment to collaboration sits at the heart of this hackathon and wider project.

Richard Jackson, Director of Sustainability and Space, shared:

Sustainability is both a strength and a continued priority for Bath. We are ambitious for the future, and this installation is an opportunity to bring our journey to life. Through Re:Imagine Sustainability, we will capture our progress towards a more sustainable future, reflecting the actions we are taking, and celebrating our community of changemakers. The perspectives and ideas of our community will help shape sustainability at Bath in the installation and future work.

The judging panel shortlisted three ideas, which will now be developed further, ultimately with one set to be created and built. The installation will be unveiled on campus in April 2026.

Chantal Meza, Artistic Engagement and Impact Research Fellow, and judge at the hackathon, shared:

It was inspiring to see everyone's engagement in the hackathon for the creation of the sustainability installation. Their enthusiasm, insight and imagination to fight for their ideals reassure me that a better future will no doubt be shaped by them. My admiration goes to all participants for their excellence and commitment to demonstrating that art and education can help build a bridge towards a more sustainable future.

We will continue to share updates as the installation progresses. This project represents a snapshot of the broad sustainability activity happening at Bath. To discover more, explore the Sustainable Bath webpages and see how you can get involved with sustainability as a member of staff and student.