Embedding Environmental Sustainability in Research Libraries: current practices and insights from the RLUK membership

As environmental sustainability becomes a central priority across UK universities, libraries are emerging as key agents of change. Positioned at the heart of academic and community life, they are often at the forefront of piloting and implementing innovative sustainability initiatives. Across the RLUK membership, research libraries are responding to the climate crisis through ensuring that their operations, collections, and infrastructures contribute meaningfully to a more sustainable future. In recognition of Green Libraries Week 2025 and the recent Green Library Conference 2025, RLUK is pleased to share some key points and insights that have emerged from ongoing conversations around environmental sustainability within its membership.

RLUK joined the  Green Libraries Campaign in 2024, demonstrating its strategic commitment to promoting environmental sustainability within the research library community. In alignment with the RLUK Strategy, discussions on the role of research libraries in supporting environmental sustainability have taken place through several RLUK initiatives. As part of the RLUK Space Programme, RLUK has hosted two events dedicated to this theme: Developing Sustainable Libraries: From Design to User Engagement (RLUK member access only) and Campus Sustainability and the Role of the Research Library (open to all), featuring a total of eight case studies. The topic has also been explored across RLUK’s wider networks and programmes, including the RLUK Special Collections & Heritage Network, the RLUK Digital Scholarship Network, and the RLUK Digital Shift Forum. 

Across these conversations, key areas of focus have included the design and use of environmentally sustainable spaces, the adoption of greener operational practices, the environmental impact of digital infrastructure and practices, and the role of collections in advancing education and awareness around environmental sustainability. 

Environmental sustainability as a strategic priority 

Through these discussions, it became evident that research libraries can play a significant role in contributing to their university’s sustainability agenda through actions such as promoting biodiversity, participating in carbon literacy training, and raising awareness around sustainable digital procurement. However, despite growing activity and interest, aligning library initiatives with broader institutional sustainability priorities can be challenging, particularly when sustainability is not embedded as a core objective in the home institution’s strategy. 

Competing values and goals across departments may further complicate efforts to advocate for or implement relevant initiatives. Based on recent RLUK discussions, a crucial first step is to cultivate a culture in which environmental sustainability is recognised as a shared responsibility and integral to institutional identity. Other strategic challenges highlighted by RLUK members include tracking the impact of different approaches, learning from sector peers, and evaluating the environmental footprint of certain library practices, such as assessing the carbon implications of printed versus electronic resources, to inform evidence-based decision-making. Additionally, there is a growing recognition of the need to recruit and support roles dedicated to sustainability, which forms an ongoing challenge given current capacity and funding constraints.

Finally, it is worth mentioning the recent RLUK Digital Shift Maturity summary report, the results of which can contribute to strategic discussions and advancement in the area. The report identified ‘Environmentally Sustainable Infrastructure’ (Principle 9, p. 32-33) as one of the least mature areas across the RLUK membership. To support progress in this area, the report outlines these key recommendations: 1) Develop Green Library Strategies: Implement policies for energy-efficient buildings and resource management, and partnerships across the institution, 2) Explore opportunities and training to support Carbon Literacy, and 3) Advance Sustainable Procurement: Prioritise environmentally friendly digital resources and vendors.

Creating sustainable spaces and environments

In terms of physical spaces, many RLUK member libraries are embedding environmental sustainability into the design and refurbishment of library buildings, as well as into everyday operational practices. Newly designed spaces increasingly aim to reduce energy consumption and improve resource efficiency, while new builds can often incorporate renewable energy systems, passive environmental controls, and flexible learning environments designed to minimise waste and adapt to evolving needs. User experience continues to play a central role in decisions regarding library spaces. However, this focus is not without its complexities, particularly when balancing comfort (e.g. warmth) with energy-efficient design. In response, research libraries are adopting proactive strategies for space utilisation and user engagement, ensuring that sustainability and accessibility remain integral to their planning and operations.

Beyond physical spaces, research libraries are increasingly re-evaluating how their digital and physical services intersect, developing hybrid models that reduce travel, enable remote access to resources, and promote the responsible use of technology, such as through initiatives like the Virtual Reading Rooms (VRRs). These approaches expand accessibility and inclusivity, but also raise important questions about measuring and managing environmental impact, including how to assess the carbon footprint of digital services.

The digital challenge and the role of collections

Thus, while digital transformation offers clear environmental advantages, it also presents a number of challenges. Data storage, large-scale digitisation, and the computational demands of digital scholarship all carry a significant carbon cost; research libraries, therefore, need to balance their commitment to open access and innovation with the environmental implications of expanding digital infrastructures.

Many RLUK member libraries are actively addressing these challenges by adopting greener IT practices, investing in energy-efficient data centres, and collaborating with relevant teams within their institutions and beyond (e.g. researchers, sustainability teams, community groups) to monitor and reduce emissions related to digital practices. Increasingly, there is recognition that digital sustainability must be embedded within collection management, research support, and data policies as a core strategic priority. Based on recent conversations, rethinking digital practices and embedding sustainability in service design can help research libraries contribute towards a more environmentally responsible digital future.

This role can be further strengthened by harnessing the power of collections to educate, inspire, and advocate for a more sustainable and inclusive future. Across the RLUK membership, there are various examples that demonstrate how collections can foster partnerships and dialogue across communities, support teaching and research on environmental sustainability, and underpin initiatives, such as exhibitions and outreach programmes, that connect climate literacy with learning and public engagement (e.g. see National Library of Scotland; Royal Holloway, University of London). 

Looking ahead

A collective challenge identified by RLUK members is the need for greater sharing of knowledge and examples of best practice as an essential step toward addressing environmental sustainability across the research library sector. As part of the RLUK Space Programme, we are gathering examples of sustainability toolkits, case studies, and other useful resources to help libraries benchmark progress, evaluate impact, and learn from one another’s approaches (some examples are provided below). We are also exploring opportunities for training and collaborative learning that will benefit the wider community. Furthemore, RLUK members have suggested that developing a critically reviewed list of environmental standards and frameworks relevant to libraries could support greater consistency and impact in sustainability practices across the sector; an area of work which can form an opportunity for further knowledge exchange and collaboration between RLUK and its stakeholders.

In summary, recent conversations have highlighted that environmental sustainability is not only a shared challenge but also an important opportunity for leadership, collaboration, and innovation. RLUK members are well positioned to take collective action, by exchanging knowledge and best practices, advocating for environmentally responsible policies, and promoting sustainable approaches. Through collaboration, critical reflection, and practical initiatives, they can contribute in shaping a more sustainable future for research, learning, and cultural stewardship.

RLUK Space Programme: Resources to support environmental sustainability planning in research libraries

Acknowledgments

I would like to acknowledge the valuable contributions of colleagues across the RLUK membership to our ongoing discussions on environmental sustainability. Special thanks to Maria Vardaki, Leanne Workman, and Prof. Sigrun Wagner at Royal Holloway, University of London for their generous support in compiling the list of resources.