Co-Creation & Collaboration: The Heart of Innovation

As we wrap up 2023 we mark the dawn of a new era in sustainability with the inauguration of the Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability (RDCS) at the University of East London. Joining UEL in June this initiative new centre marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards a more sustainable and resilient future. A period when communities, businesses, industries and institutions need to work together in new ways to create a more sustainable future.

At the core of the RDCS is the principle of co-creation and collaboration. True innovation thrives at the intersection of diverse, creative and inclusive perspectives, expertise, and experiences. By fostering a collaborative ecosystem, we aim to:

Bridge Academia and Industry: Facilitate partnerships between researchers, students, businesses, and policymakers to translate cutting-edge research into actionable solutions.

Empowering Communities: Engage local communities in co-designing sustainable initiatives that address their unique challenges and aspirations.

Driving Transformative Impacts: Harness the collective intelligence and resources to accelerate the development and adoption of sustainable technologies, policies, and practices.

On the 6 December during the launch of the RDCS, many of our stakeholders came together to showcase the sustainable innovation already underway at UEL demonstrating how the centre will create a new co-creation platform in the heart of the Royal Docks and East London. A highlight of the launch was the evenings Sustainable Innovation panel which demonstrated the mandate for a sustainable future across East London and beyond.

“Bringing those seeds of innovation and connection and different ways of thinking into fruition. It is mainstreaming …ideas that are needed for the future, those different ways of thinking and acting for the future”. Hannah Pathak , International Managing Director, Forum for the Future

“The RDCS shows what can happen when many individuals and their aspirations can collectively create a reality” Steve Diasio , Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship & Innovation University of South Florida .

‘At its heart it’s about people, ensuring that our people benefit from our combined and collaborative agenda of inclusive growth, good growth’ Rokhsana Fiaz OBE, Mayor of Newham

‘The Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability embodies the cities direction of travel Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan the Mayor of London

The RDCS is a jointly funded initiative by the University of East London and the Royal Docks Enterprise Team, Greater London Authority and London Borough of Newham

2024 and beyond

The new year will mark the strengthening and growth of partnerships as we deliver new collaborations and initiatives across the new facilities. We are fortunate to already have a foundation of brilliant people and organisations engaged in the RDCS. Key collaborations already underway include:

Research & Development: Establish state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities dedicated to pioneering research in ecological restoration, renewable energy, circular economy, sustainable urban development, and more.

• Sustainable Research Institute (SRI)
• Renewable Energy and STEAM Community Hub (ACE)
• Data Centre Innovation (launching 2024)

Entrepreneurship & Innovation Hub: Provide a platform for startups, innovators, and entrepreneurs to collaborate, prototype, and scale sustainable solutions.

• Digital Fabrication Lab (dfUEL)
• Royal Docks School of Business and Law (RDSBL)
• Sustainable Enterprise Centre (launching 2024)
• East London Talent

Community Engagement & Outreach: Organize workshops, seminars, and educational programmes to raise awareness, build capacity, and foster a culture of inclusive sustainability within the community.

• The Rix Centre - inclusive research
• Newham Chamber of Commerce

Impact Beyond Boundaries:

The Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability is not just a physical space; it's a catalyst for change. By harnessing the power of co-creation and collaboration, we aspire to:

Drive Economic Growth: By supporting sustainable businesses and fostering innovation, we aim to create new job opportunities and stimulate economic development.

Enhance Resilience: By addressing pressing sustainability challenges, such as climate change and resource scarcity, we strive to build a more resilient and adaptive society, delivering local and global outcomes.

Inspire Future Generations: By engaging with students, researchers, and the broader community, we aim to inspire a new generation of leaders and change-makers committed to sustainability.

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Join Us on this Journey

As we embark on this exciting journey, we invite stakeholders from all sectors to join us in co-creating a sustainable future. Together, we can unlock new possibilities, drive transformative innovation, and create lasting impacts for our communities and the planet.

For more information and to get involved, please visit Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability.

Together, let's reimagine, reinvent and rebuild a sustainable future for all.

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