Manchester Metropolitan University has continued to hold sustainability and community engagement as core values as it looks to offer conference and event facilities in some of the UK’s greenest venues. The Birley building, opened this academic year, has a zero waste, water and energy commitment and reinforces the strong green ethos of the institute, which has appealed to the community, students and stakeholders beyond the Manchester city centre district.
After coming first in the People and Planet University Green League in 2013, MMU has displayed an unwavering commitment to sustainability by positioning itself as one of the top three green institutes again in 2015. This is a huge contrast compared to in 2007, when MMU ranked 91st in the league rankings, and shows the ongoing green commitment of the University. The infrastructure of Manchester Metropolitan University has been reinforced by environmental innovations, including the first ever carbon-neutral conference this year; an international sustainability conference held virtually.
By resourcing staff and stakeholders, MMU is aspiring to provide skills and understanding to local communities. The Birley development is a brilliant example of how the University has embraced local impact and engagement, creating a public realm with an orchard, gardens and wetland area for wildlife to thrive in, and for the community to enjoy.
Birley provides plenty of exciting networking space including a 550sqm multi-purpose hall, a variety of meeting rooms and some of the most cutting-edge health and education facilities in the UK. The residential accommodation built as part of the Birley development is also amongst the most environmentally friendly in the UK. The eco-townhouses and accessible cluster flats include stylish furnishings and high-speed Wifi access.
The state-of-the-art campus marks the completion of a £300 million investment programme in Manchester. The 15-acre Hulme site comprises the main academic building, accommodation and a green energy centre. The energy centre heats and powers the campus, provides fresh water and will be used as an education resource.
MMU is proud of its green credentials, and shall continue to offer first-class conference and event facilities in a sustainable setting. To find out more about their stunning venues, suitable for any meeting or conference occasion, contact the Conference and Events office: venues@mmu.ac.uk or 0161 247 1565.
