University Community Fund
The Community Fund has supported a diverse range of grassroots sustainability projects across Fife, demonstrating the impact of community-led action on reducing waste, saving energy, and strengthening local connections.
The Larick Repair Shop
Awarded £1000, this project successfully ran monthly repair sessions and upcycling workshops, enabling residents to restore household items and clothing. Volunteers and participants extended the life of goods, reduced landfill waste, and saved money while fostering social connections and improving wellbeing.
UN SDGs: 3, 11, 12
The Cupar School Uniform Exchange
Awarded £938.95, this initiative provided free, high-quality school uniforms to hundreds of local families, helping alleviate child poverty and financial strain. The project recycled over a tonne of clothing, diverted waste from landfill, and offered University researchers valuable data on sustainability practices.
UN SDGs: 1, 4, 12
Reclaim Runway
Awarded £500, Reclaim Runway promoted sustainable fashion through inclusive runway shows, sewing classes, and school collaborations. All designs were made from reused materials, reducing textile waste and promoting creativity. The project successfully engaged students, local designers, and musicians.
UN SDGs: 11, 12, 17
The Net Zero – Window Upgrade Draught Proofing
The Craigrothie Village Hall project (awarded £500) improved energy efficiency in a community hall by resealing windows and doors. This simple but effective intervention reduced heat loss, cut energy costs, and extended the hall’s life by 10–15 years.
UN SDGs: 7, 11, 13
Powering Our Future: Community Renewable Energy Workshops
Awarded £1500 and delivered by Bright Green Hydrogen, this project ran 16 hands-on STEM workshops in schools and a community fun day in Methil. Participants built solar cars, wind turbines, and hydrogen fuel cells, gaining practical knowledge of renewable energy.
UN SDGs: 4, 7, 13
Sustainable Spaces: Transforming Community Buildings
Awarded £2000, this project run by Greener Kirkcaldy with HeatHack delivered three workshops supporting up to 36 community organisations. Participants learned practical ways to reduce energy use, plan for retrofits, and cut heating costs.
UN SDGs: 7, 11, 13