Submitted by Grainne Kennedy on Thu, 2018-01-25 15:39
Many of the University's Colleges are looking to improve their environmental performance, with fantastic achievements led by both staff and students. In this article we focus on St John's College. The College’s Environmental Policy includes targets for everything from energy use to transport. Here we look at a few of the achievements at the College, including:
Renewable energy
St John’s College recently took a large step towards reducing their carbon footprint by moving to a 100% renewable energy contract. While energy production figures for last year show the UK as a whole moving more towards more renewable energy sources, sourcing 100% still represents a positive shift by the College to support the market for greener sources of energy.
Recycling
St John’s has set a recycling target of 75% and the College has put in place a number of recycling points, each of which are listed on a map of the College to help staff and students find these easily (see below). They even collect cigarette ends which are converted into garden tools and benches!
Food
Food waste from St Johns is composted and the Catering Department are actively looking at how they can reduce the energy used in food production. This work is being done as part of their Energy Management System.
Energy Efficient Retrofits
A successful pilot at 15 St Johns Road has shown that improving energy efficiency in the College’s older buildings is achievable. All forthcoming retrofit works on College Hostels will have to achieve an EPC rating of C. The result will be that students will have the benefit of cosy rooms while the College will see much lower energy bills and reduced carbon emissions.
Engagement with students
Students at St Johns are being encouraged to do their bit by following St John’s Green Tips, and to get involved in the College's efforts by contacting ethical@sjcjcr.com.
We would love to hear from other Colleges about their sustainability efforts. If you have a story that you would like to share with the wider University, get in touch. Students and staff who are keen to work with their College to improve their environmental performance can get involved in Green Impact for guidance and recognition.