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Our policies and plans

We have outlined our environmental sustainability policy as well as other plans, to commit to applying sustainable principles and how we will achieve this.

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Environmental Sustainability Plan

Our Environmental Sustainability Plan covers the University’s activities within the UK initially, and then overseas as our sustainability plans and processes develop. This plan outlines the University of Sunderland’s intent to reduce its direct and indirect environmental impacts and contribute to sustainable development for the local community and wider society.

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Carbon management plan

Our Carbon Management Plan is our commitment to achieving Net Zero Carbon of Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2040, and Scope 3 emissions by 2050.

Within this plan you will find a summary of our achievements in this area, as well as a breakdown of our energy efficiency and carbon emissions, like our staff and student commuting emissions.

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Our Travel Plan

Our Travel Plan will set targets to reduce the carbon impact of travel, contributing to the broader sustainability objectives of the University. In the Travel Plan, you can find our policies, challenges, aims, and targets.

The University first developed a Travel Plan for its Sunderland campuses in 2010. Since then, there has been significant investment to support sustainable travel choices like dedicated bus services, cycle storage and improved pedestrian accessibility across our Sunderland campuses. For that reason, we have developed a new approach to travel planning for the University.