This week, I had the fantastic opportunity to speak with Master’s students studying the Green Technologies module at Bangor University. Our discussion focused on circular economy initiatives—specifically, our work with Repair Cafés and the Library of Things through our outreach OnTour spaces in Bangor and Pwllheli.
The circular economy is all about reducing waste, extending product lifecycles, and fostering a culture of repair and reuse. During my talk, I highlighted the importance of community-driven initiatives that actively promote sustainability. At our outreach spaces, we facilitate access to shared tools and resources, encouraging people to repair rather than replace. This not only reduces environmental impact but also builds local resilience and skills.
One of the key elements I shared was our Library of Things—a space where people can borrow rather than buy, promoting a shift from ownership to access. From power tools to camping gear, the Library of Things helps the community save money and reduce consumption while still enjoying the benefits of useful equipment.
I was delighted to invite Josie Ball, the Volunteering and Communities Coordinator for UNDEB, Bangor University’s Student Union, to speak about the Repair Café initiative at the university. Running roughly once a term, the Repair Café is a space where students and community members can bring broken items—whether it’s clothing, small appliances, or bicycles—and work with skilled volunteers to repair them.
Josie spoke about how this initiative not only reduces waste but also provides students with valuable volunteering opportunities. Through their involvement, students can log volunteer hours, gaining recognition through the Higher Education Achievement Award (HEAR). This allows them to officially document their contributions to sustainability and community engagement on their CVs—something that can make a real difference when entering the job market.
To make the session even more engaging, I arranged for two of our dedicated volunteers to attend:
Elizabeth, a retired audiologist who specializes in textile repair, shared her expertise in fixing clothing and fabric-based items.
Robin, a Bangor University graduate in Electronic Engineering, demonstrated his skills in repairing electrical items, showcasing how small fixes can prevent unnecessary waste. Robin also took the opportunity to talk about the Right to Repair policy and how legislation is changing to support it, as well as the importance of taking part in the movement to push for better policies. If you’d like to learn more or join the campaign, you can visit the Right to Repair Europe website or The Restart Project to find more information and sign petitions to support the cause.
Their presence added a hands-on element to the discussion, showing students just how impactful repair skills can be in real-life scenarios.
We wrapped up the talk by discussing ways students could get involved—whether by volunteering at the Repair Café, borrowing from the Library of Things, or even setting up their own sustainability projects. Seeing their enthusiasm and engagement reaffirmed the importance of these initiatives in shaping a more sustainable future.
This session was a great reminder of the power of collaboration. By working together—students, universities, and community initiatives—we can create real change. I’m looking forward to seeing more students get involved and take these ideas forward in their own careers and communities!
If you’re interested in learning more or getting involved, feel free to reach out. Let’s keep the conversation going and continue making sustainability accessible for all!
tom@m-sparc.com
Tom used to work at the KFC in his hometown of Colwyn Bay before it mysteriously burned down. He then spent several years “on the lam” in East Germany, where he worked as an animator in Berlin. When the wall fell, Tom came home.
He enjoys climbing and hates ice-skating.
