The University of Liverpool has reached one year of reuse with Warp It since its launch during Sustainability Week 2025. In just 12 months, the initiative has saved £315,000, prevented 38.2 tonnes of waste, and avoided 144.1 tonnes of carbon emissions.

The scheme is powered by 1,325 active staff users, and numbers are still climbing.

Furniture was the most reused item, with more than 1,700 pieces shared. Staff also passed on equipment such as theodolites, surveying tripods, and even a pool table, alongside appliances like smartboards, oil heaters, and fridges. Laboratory items, PPE, and stationery were reused across departments as well. Almost anything can be listed and reused. Exceptions for personal belongings, data-bearing devices, and contaminated or hazardous items.

Rhiannon Hunt, Circular Economy Manager, said: “It’s incredible to see the uptake of Warp It by staff at the University of Liverpool and their commitment to reuse. The environmental and financial savings are already providing clear benefits to the University. Warp It is very necessary and has been warmly received by staff, making a real difference to how we manage surplus items.”

The Sustainability team leads the project, working closely with Mail and Transport’s Heavy Gang, who manage the University’s central storage facility and handle collections and deliveries. IT Services colleagues provide technical support. This collaboration across departments keeps the service running smoothly, supports staff, and maximises reuse across campus.

Rhiannon said: “Staff have always actively reused unwanted equipment and furniture collected from the University’s estate and Warp It, combined with the Central Store facility has removed much of the administrative burden.”

Warp It lets University staff list surplus and unwanted items and claim them for reuse elsewhere on campus. Administrative staff can keep records of items, and the platform also sends customised reminders about transfer rules while pointing users to other services and guidance.

The University is also extending reuse to non-profits. Items that remain unclaimed for a long period can now be donated to charities, NHS trusts, and schools across the North West.

In addition, the University runs an upcycling project that refurbishes furniture from University halls. Sofas and chairs with worn fabric but intact frames are given a new lease of life.

Rhiannon said, “The upcycling project complements Warp It perfectly, turning items that might otherwise be skipped into usable, refurbished furniture, and helping the University reduce waste even further.”

The success of Warp It shows how staff-led initiatives can make a real difference. With these efforts, the University is on track to save over £1 million by 2031, further reducing waste and embedding a culture of reuse across campus.