The project ran from May to October 2025, and partnered with the British Heart Foundation (BHF) to divert more than 35 tonnes of unwanted household items from landfill, reaffirming the University’s commitment to a circular economy and community support.

Thanks to the efforts of students, staff and the support of BHF donation banks, more than 4,300 bags of student donations were sorted through, valued at more than £50,000.

This year DDI worked with 32 charities and organisations, ranging from grassroots local groups to international aid networks. Three quarters of these partners collected multiple times, with 75% using donations directly to help others, and the remainder selling items to raise funds for vital causes. The charities included:

• The Ripple Effect: Received 1.5 tonnes of donations to support refugees across Europe. Their fundraising events, including fashion shows and car-boot sales, are powered by DDI contributions.
• Positive Action: Collected almost a third of a tonne of donations including food, clothing, and toiletries to support homeless individuals and vulnerable families.
• Defying Dementia: Took over half a tonne of donations to help fund support services for those affected by dementia.
• International Aid: Received 1.5 tonnes of items to ship overseas or sell in support of countries in need, including Ukraine, Sierra Leone and Moldova.

Across all 32 charities, the contributions made by DDI this year are not only funding lifesaving research but also reduced waste and promoted reuse across campus.

What’s next?

Dr Georgiana Allison, Head of Sustainability at Lancaster, said: "The University intends to build on the success of DDI 2025 by continuing the momentum with stronger partnerships, smarter delivery, and a growing community of student and staff champions. Don’t Ditch It continues to prove that small actions - like donating an unwanted item - can have a global impact."

Find out more

The University’s Sustainability team want to hear more from anyone who is working to advance sustainability in any way across Lancaster University, no matter how big or small.

Send your stories, suggestions, ideas and feedback to sustainability@lancaster.ac.uk.