ICSR 2026 Sustainability Statement
In partnership with the University of London
At the International Conference on Social Robotics (ICSR) 2026, sustainability is central to how we design, host, and deliver the event. Held at the University of London—an institution committed to becoming a net‑zero, nature‑positive leader—ICSR 2026 aligns its operations with the University’s ambitious environmental strategy and its vision for resilient, biodiverse, and responsible campuses.
Our Sustainability Principles
1. Net‑Zero Commitment
The University of London is actively working toward achieving net‑zero carbon emissions and building climate resilience across its estate. ICSR 2026 fully supports this commitment by ensuring that event operations—from energy use to procurement—reflect low‑carbon and resource‑efficient practices.
All events hosted at the University contribute to this wider institutional goal.
2. Biodiversity Enhancement
The campus is home to an exceptional network of green spaces, and the University is committed to going further. Through:
- increasing biomass,
- improving biodiversity on both new and existing green areas,
- and fostering deeper engagement with nature,
the University aims to deliver biodiversity net gain across its portfolio. ICSR 2026 embraces this vision by promoting attendee awareness of campus ecology and championing research‑aligned conversations on sustainable, nature‑positive robotics futures.
3. Sustainable Catering
ICSR 2026 benefits from the strong sustainability credentials of the University’s hospitality partner, Gather & Gather.
Together, they work to:
- provide ethical, healthy, and low‑impact food and beverage options,
- support responsible procurement and supply‑chain transparency,
- encourage lower‑carbon meal choices,
- and implement strategies to reduce food waste.
Catering at ICSR 2026 reflects this commitment to ethical and environmentally responsible dining.
4. Responsible Supply Chains
The University of London is actively building a resilient and sustainable supply chain, working closely with vendors and procurement consortia to ensure good practice.
The aim: 100% of suppliers meeting sustainability procurement criteria.
All suppliers supporting ICSR 2026 are selected with these standards in mind, ensuring alignment with the University’s sustainability values.
5. Waste Reduction & Circular Practices
Reducing waste is a core component of the University’s environmental approach. Efforts include:
- expanded recycling infrastructure,
- increased accessibility of recycling points,
- and a long‑term ambition of zero residual waste across the estate.
Senate House—where ICSR 2026 key activities take place—has already reached a 72% recycling rate (April–June 2025), demonstrating the effectiveness of these initiatives.
The conference will follow the University’s guidance to minimise event waste and maximise reuse, recovery, and recycling.
Reusable Water Bottles
As part of our commitment to reducing single-use plastics, all registered participants will receive a reusable water bottle as a conference gift. We encourage you to use your bottle throughout the event and beyond.
A Shared Responsibility
ICSR 2026 invites every attendee, partner, speaker, and exhibitor to join in supporting these sustainability goals. By aligning the conference with the University of London’s environmental strategy, we aim to create an event that not only showcases world‑leading social robotics research but also reflects a shared commitment to a resilient, nature‑positive future.