Our policy
The University of Sunderland has outlined a policy to commit to applying sustainable principles, and how we will achieve this.
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The University of Sunderland has outlined a policy to commit to applying sustainable principles, and how we will achieve this.
The University is fully committed to making a positive impact on the environment and to wider society. We have focused on specific, practical and measurable actions which would have a real and lasting impact. The University agrees that achieving carbon-neutrality as soon as possible is a vital aspect of minimising climate-related impacts.
We have an Environmental Sustainability plan, which is one of several key supporting plans for the University. It 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.
As part of our sustainability policy we will focus on key areas, including:
To reduce the University of Sunderland’s direct and indirect environmental impacts in these areas, there are a number of ways we can achieve this.
We are committed to managing our carbon emissions. In 2016/17, we achieved a 48% reduction, 5% over our carbon reduction target of 43% (university sector target) well ahead of the 2020/21 target deadline (based on a 2005 baseline) and it is likely to be closer to a 60% reduction overall.
Our carbon management plan projects include improvements to mechanical and electrical systems such as lighting, heating and insulation, to behaviour change projects seeking to engage with our staff and students in initiatives to reduce our carbon footprint.
For further information, contact the Strategic Environmental Sustainability Group (SESG):
hse@sunderland.ac.uk