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Nov. 20, 2025

Derby launches Institute to tackle climate change

University of DerbyThe University of Derby has launched the UK’s first Institute of Carbonomics, a pioneering research centre focused on helping businesses cut emissions and transition to a low-carbon economy. The Institute will bring together government and organisations to accelerate innovation in carbon economics, transform supply chains and deliver practical, scalable solutions for reducing emissions.

Established through a partnership between the University of Derby, Intercontinental Exchange (ICE), and McDonald’s UK & Ireland, the Institute will sit at the centre of the University’s research ecosystem, alongside leading work in coral reef restoration, climate change, lean-green logistics, and zero-carbon technologies.

Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Derby, Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, says, “Carbonomics is more than an emerging academic field, it is a vital framework for how industries must evolve and innovate to succeed in low-carbon economies.”

She continues, “Through this Institute, driven by a pioneering collaboration with ICE and McDonald’s UK & Ireland, we are creating a new model for how universities and businesses can collaborate to spark innovation, shape future policy, and deliver global impact at scale.”

As the UK works toward its 2050 net zero goal, the Institute’s launch highlights the University of Derby’s commitment to industry collaboration and practical sustainability solutions, further strengthening its reputation as a global leader in applied sustainability research and in preparing future business leaders to drive real-world impact.

Professor Mitchell explains, “The launch of the Institute of Carbonomics marks a pivotal moment not just for the University of Derby, but for the UK’s role on the global stage. Achieving net zero demands a united effort, and this Institute embodies the shared ambition to make the UK a world leader in this field.”

She adds, “By combining academic excellence with industry insight and leadership, this Institute has the potential to drive global solutions, supporting businesses around the world to thrive while accelerating the transition to low-carbon economies.”

Managing Director, Utility Markets and Global Head of Environmental Markets at Intercontinental Exchange, Gordon Bennett, says, “The creation of the Institute of Carbonomics reflects a shared commitment with the University of Derby to solve complex, real-world challenges through collaboration and application. As a global financial market operator, ICE aggregates diverse perspectives to create price signals and risk tools that guide decision-making across the economy. That same principle is at the heart of Derby’s identity as an applied university, where cross-disciplinary collaboration turns knowledge into action.”

Mr Bennett continues, “Located in the UK’s manufacturing heartland, Derby is embedded in the real economy – where decarbonisation must be delivered not just in theory, but in practice. This partnership connects the real economy with the financial markets.”

VP Impact, McDonald’s UK & Ireland, Andrew Moys, VP says, “Sustainability plays an important role in our plans for the future. Through our Plan for Change strategy, our ambition is to achieve net zero emissions in the UK and Ireland from farms to restaurants, by 2040. This groundbreaking partnership with the University of Derby allows us to combine academic excellence with our industry expertise to develop solutions which will help us achieve that target and make measurable progress towards a sustainable, fairer future for everyone.”    

The announcement was made during the official opening of The Cavendish Building, the University’s new £75 million state-of-the-art building in the heart of Derby city centre and home to Derby International Business School and the new Institute.

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Content added on 20th November 2025.  

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