Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability
A space for co-creation and collaboration
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A space for co-creation and collaboration
Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability
About us
A place-based hub for sustainable innovation
The Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability is UEL’s front door for sustainability, enterprise, innovation and civic collaboration. Funded through London’s Good Growth Fund, RDCS supports inclusive growth by creating clear pathways into skills, employment, enterprise and research, rooted in local needs and global challenges.
We work across:
- Sustainability and climate action
- Skills development and careers
- Enterprise and business growth
- Applied research and innovation
- Community empowerment and inclusion
Our approach is collaborative, practical and impact-driven. We support people and organisations to test ideas, build capability and deliver meaningful change.
As a civic anchor institution, we:
- Support local people into education, skills and careers
- Help start-ups and SMEs innovate and grow sustainably
- Provide space to test, pilot and demonstrate new ideas
- Bring together partners across sectors and communities
- Translate research into real-world impact
Our work aligns with UEL Vision 2028, Newham’s Just Transition ambitions, and London’s wider sustainability and growth priorities.
Events, programmes and activity
RDCS delivers a year-round programme co-created with industry and community partners. The programme brings together innovators, entrepreneurs, students and academics through skills programmes, workshops, talks, hackathons, clinics and exhibitions.
Our programmes create pathways into work, enterprise, research and further study. They combine hands-on learning with access to expertise, specialist facilities and professional networks.
- Skills and training programmes - CPD courses
- Community workshops and forums - Newham sustainability initiatives
- Enterprise and start-up support sessions - Business Incubator/Accelerator Programmes
- Research, innovation and policy events - applied research with civic participation
- AI Talent Development Programme (Data Centre)
- Net Zero and sustainability programmes
- CDT Maker Club and community making programmes
- Awards and ceremonies
- Private hire
Enterprise and business support
Supporting sustainable businesses to grow
RDCS supports start-ups, SMEs and social enterprises developing sustainable and inclusive solutions.
Our enterprise offer includes:
- Business Incubator Programme
- MassChallenge collaboration
- Help to Grow (delivery partner)
- RDSBL Small Business Charter activity
- Millionaire’s Club (student and graduate enterprise)
- TerraDock – RDCS’s sustainable enterprise hub
We support businesses from idea stage through to growth by providing access to mentoring, workspace, networks and specialist support.
TerraDock
TerraDock is a collaborative coworking and innovation space based at UEL's Docklands campus.
Read more about TerraDockSpecialist facilities and centres
RDCS brings together a unique collection of specialist facilities that support applied research, innovation and community engagement.
Centres and facilities within RDCS include:
Sustainability Research Institute (SRI)
One of the first institutes of its kind in the UK, with an international reputation for sustainability and climate research focused on real-world impact.
TerraDock – Sustainable Enterprise Hub
Incubation and accelerator programmes supporting sustainable start-ups and SMEs.
Augmented & Virtual Reality (AR/VR) Centre
A cutting-edge space for immersive technology facility for research and applications in sustainability, industry, and education.
RIX Inclusive Research Centre
A pioneering centre championing digital inclusion and accessibility through co-creation and assistive technology.
Maker Space (Digital Fabrication Lab)
A hands-on prototyping space with 3D printers, laser cutters and fabrication tools.
Renewable Energy Lab
Research and innovation in renewable energy systems and energy efficiency.
Data Centre
Sustainability data analytics, AI-driven insights and smart city innovation.
Living Lab
A real-world testing environment for sustainability solutions and public engagement.
Office for Postgraduates, Research and Engagement
Provide support for the development of research grant funding applications and grant management.
Community clinics and support
Free advice and consultancy for communities and SMEs
RDCS hosts a range of community clinics delivered by staff and students. These clinics offer free, practical support to local residents and organisations.
Available services include:
STEAM Community Support Centre
Free student-led support for businesses and communities across Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths (STEAM) solutions.
Charity Sofa
Online every Wednesday from 3pm to 5pm. A space for small charities to connect, share ideas and access expert guidance.
Business Advice Centre
Free student-led business advice, networking and planning to support local SMEs and entrepreneurs to develop and grow their businesses.
Tax and Accountancy Clinic
Free support for small businesses, including bookkeeping, PAYE and government grants.
Legal Advice Centre
Free housing and family legal support from university law students under the supervision of qualified solicitors.
Partner with us
We collaborate with organisations of all sizes to deliver meaningful and measurable impact.
Ways to work with us include:
- Co-create skills, enterprise or innovation programmes
- Collaborate on research or pilot projects
- Prototype, test and develop ideas, technologies or services
- Create local engagement and impact
- Deliver sustainability solutions and impacts to East London and beyond
- Partner with us on festivals, events, workshops or pop-ups
Schools and young people
Inspiring future pathways
RDCS welcomes schools and colleges to explore sustainability, engineering, technology and creative careers.
Visits include:
- Maker Space, AR/VR and flight simulator experiences for all ages
- Higher education and careers talks for years 11–13
Venue hire
Host your event in a sustainable setting
Looking for the perfect venue for your next event? RDCS offers a range of versatile and sustainable event spaces for conferences, workshops, seminars and more.
Our modern facilities include the latest technology and provide a comfortable, eco-friendly environment for your guests.
Advisory group
At the Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability, our commitment to excellence and innovation is guided by a distinguished advisory group made up of Deans, Heads and Pro Vice-Chancellors from the University.
This group of experienced leaders brings together expertise, insight and a shared commitment to advancing sustainability in local and global communities.
FAQs
What does the Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability do?
The centre brings together universities, businesses, and local partners to support sustainability-focused research, collaboration, and innovation in East London.
Who can work with the Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability?
The centre works with organisations including businesses, local authorities, researchers, community groups, and education partners.
Where is the Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability based?
The centre is based in the Royal Docks area of East London as part of UEL’s sustainability and innovation activity.
What sustainability areas does the centre focus on?
Projects and partnerships support themes linked to sustainability, innovation, education, and inclusive economic growth.
How can organisations collaborate with the centre?
Organisations interested in collaboration can contact the team to discuss partnership, research, or engagement opportunities.
Get in touch with RDCS
Ready to take the next step towards sustainability? Have questions about our services, facilities or membership? Contact the RDCS team to find out how we can support your sustainability goals.
Address: Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability, University Way, London, E16 2RD
Email: rdcs@uel.ac.uk
