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

The Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability (RDCS) is the regional hatchery for innovation, skills and enterprise supporting a more sustainable and resilient future for businesses, students and residents in the Royal Docks area. The Centre embeds a culture of sustainability in everything we do with a commitment to support underrepresented groups and drive engagement between the University, east London and the world.

The Centre provides local people, businesses and UEL students and graduates access to:

  • Affordable workspace and specialist facilities
  • Relevant academic/research expertise and a diverse talent pipeline
  • Impactful programmes to launch and grow businesses, and develop the skills of East Londoners

About the RDCS

The goal of the RDCS is to build a strong and sustainable ecosystem for skills development leading to graduate-level jobs and a pathway for inclusive and progressive businesses to start-up, stand-up and stay in the region.

Using UEL’s combination of people, place, partnerships, and programmes, it is our vision to serve our students, our graduates, and the community as we have done for the last 125 years by developing the RDCS as an innovation catalyst in the region.

Person sat at a desk with a laptop in a meeting

Convene and connect

Bring together UEL researchers, students, alumni with businesses and local residents

Femal apprentice at work wearing a hardhat

Skills development

Supply the region’s new and existing businesses with a skilled workforce

People with notepads at a desk in a meeting

Enterprise incubation, innovation & business support

Incubate good growth businesses that pioneers the new economy

Four women in conversation at a table

Community wealth building

A valued resource for Newham residents and east London

Specialist facilities

Spread across three floors, the Centre’s programmes and facilities are structured to stimulate innovation and provide enterprise and business support while also connecting with community and industry to deliver sustainable impact and growth.

Centres and facilities in the RDCS include:

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    Sustainable Enterprise Centre (SEC)

    Empowering Sustainable Business Ventures

    At RDCS, we understand that sustainable businesses are the future. Our Sustainable Enterprise Centre (SEC) is designed to support and nurture startups and businesses that are focused on environmentally friendly practices and initiatives. By becoming a member of SEC, you'll gain access to a range of resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help your sustainable business thrive.

    The SEC is aimed at startups/businesses/initiatives at incubation level, by the end of your time at the SEC your business will be ready to stand up and grow in the region.

    Sustainable development

    Driving positive change for a greener tomorrow

    At RDCS, we are committed to driving sustainable development and positive environmental change. Through our partnerships, initiatives, and research, we aim to create a lasting impact on the community and the planet. Join us in our journey towards a more sustainable future.

    Our sustainable development initiatives:

    17 UN SDGs arranged in a wheel with assigned colours and branding.
    See how UEL is working on SDGs

    Partner with us

    The Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability (RDCS) is proud to be a part of the University's Employer Partnership Office, fostering collaborations that drive sustainable solutions and innovations. We welcome partnerships with businesses, organisations, and individuals who share our vision for a greener, more sustainable future.

    Why partner with RDCS?

    Catalyst for collaboration

    Your partnership with RDCS is not just a singular engagement; it's a catalyst for a network of collaborations. By joining forces with us, you become part of a dynamic ecosystem that encourages continuous collaboration with like-minded organisations, amplifying the impact of your initiatives.

    Aligning with wider University activity and research

    RDCS is deeply integrated into the broader spectrum of university activity and research. Partnering with us means aligning your organisation with the university's cutting-edge research initiatives and ongoing projects, providing a unique opportunity to contribute to and benefit from a wealth of knowledge and expertise.

    Innovation at the local and glocal level

    Our collaborative approach to sustainability fosters innovation that transcends local boundaries. Partnering with RDCS means engaging in glocal (global + local) innovation, where ideas and solutions developed locally have the power to influence practices and policies on a global scale.

    Our current partners are integral to the success of our collaborative initiatives. They have played a crucial role in shaping projects that not only meet the needs of the local community and students but also contribute to broader global sustainability goals.

    Visit the Royal Docks

    Get in touch with RDCS

    Ready to take the next step towards sustainability? Have questions about our services, facilities, or membership? Contact our friendly team at RDCS and let us guide you on your journey towards a greener and more sustainable future.

    Director of RDCS

    Robert de Jong

    Community Manager

    Jameelah Webster

    Address: Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability, University Way, London, E16 2RD

    Email: rdcs@uel.ac.uk

    Contact us

    Venue hire

    Host your event in a sustainable setting

    Looking for the perfect venue for your next event? RDCS offers a variety of versatile and sustainable event spaces that are ideal for conferences, workshops, seminars, and more. Our modern facilities are equipped with the latest technology and designed to provide a comfortable and eco-friendly atmosphere for your guests.

    Why choose RDCS for your event?

    • Flexible Event Spaces
    • State-of-the-Art AV Equipment
    • Sustainable Catering Options
    • Dedicated Event Planning Team

    Looking for other campus spaces?

    Please see more information about hiring our venues or contact us

    Advisory Group

    At the Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability, our commitment to excellence and innovation is guided by a distinguished Advisory Group comprising esteemed individuals including Deans, Heads, and Pro Vice-Chancellors from the University. This collective of visionary leaders brings a wealth of expertise, experience, and a shared passion for advancing sustainability in both local and global contexts.