Campus Clean Up: Students work together to combat trash!

Campus Clean Up: Students work together to combat trash!

The Campus Clean Up at Clausthal University of Technology took place for the third time on May 12, 2025 and enjoyed a pleasing number of participants. Organized by Prof. Niels Neumann from the Institute for Electrical Information Technology, Asja Mrotzek-Blöß from the Green Office and Joachim Mertens, Head of Technical Administration, the event was a significant step towards a more sustainable university. The starting point of the collection campaign was the cafeteria on the Feldgraben campus, with the initiative being expanded to the Tannenhöhe campus area for the first time in 2025. The aim of this was to improve waste disposal over a larger area, which was successfully implemented through the commitment of around 40 volunteers and other participants.

The participants not only consisted of students and employees of Clausthal University of Technology, but also included three children and two dogs. Particularly noteworthy is the participation of the Drillbotics team, which actively participated in the garbage collection campaign. Kristin Peukert, climate protection manager at Clausthal University of Technology, was pleased with the high number of participants and the positive response to the campaign, which is in line with the university's guiding theme: sustainability and circular economy. The sponsors included, among others, the Regional Association of the Greater Braunschweig Area and the KreisWirtschaftsBetriebe Goslar.

Community involvement

Information stands and refreshments after the clean-up operation were well received by the volunteers. In addition to soft drinks, there was also low-alcohol beer to celebrate the joint effort. Those responsible are positive about the event and plan to continue the Campus Clean Up next year. Such actions go a long way in raising awareness about environmental protection and sustainable practices.

A similar commitment was shown by Humber College, which hosted a campus clean-up event after a three-year break to mark the COVID-19 pandemic. At North Campus, a group of students came together to collect trash and recyclable materials. One student, Grace Taylor, said she wanted to give back to her community and the college. Participants were equipped with gloves and trash bags to clean both the campus grounds and the nearby Humber Arboretum. Gabi Hentschke, coordinator for sustainability communication, emphasized the importance of the event for environmental responsibility and social networking among students.

Cultural change in waste management

The relevance of waste management and recycling cannot now be overlooked. In Germany, where Clausthal University of Technology is based, an estimated two thirds of waste is recycled. The aim is to reduce paper-based waste, especially in teaching, research and administration. Initiatives such as halving the number of printers by 2021 and using Blue Angel-certified recycled paper show a shared desire for change.

In addition, universities across Europe, including the Free University of Berlin, have launched proactive, sustained campaigns to involve academics and staff in the process. Increased spatial consolidation and continuous renovation of the university buildings are central concerns that should have a positive impact on study and research conditions TU Clausthal reports about the successes of the clean-up campaign, during Humber News illuminated how students live up to their responsibility towards the environment. Also FU Berlin highlights, how important sustainable practices are in academia.