University of Portsmouth
The University of Portsmouth has been ranked one of the greenest in the UK.
The new rankings from the People & Planet Green League table placed Portsmouth eighth equal with Cambridge University.
The table ranks 102 universities based on factors such as their record on recycling, CO2 emissions and in purchasing renewable energy.
The University of Portsmouth's eco policy has been in force since 2000, and includes several schemes dedicated to helping the environment:
A Travel Plan: introduced in 1992, it discourages commuting to the University by private car and subsequently 1000 bicycle parking spaces have been created.
Fairtrade Status since 2005.
Recycling: Facilities are available throughout the university to recycle various materials.
Carbon emissions per head: From 2010 the university will have a duty to take part in the government’s Carbon Reduction Commitment scheme but already the university has taken steps to reduce energy consumption.
Sustainable Construction: The initial brief to architects is always to ensure that buildings achieve low energy use. The new University Library extension is a clear endorsement of this approach. The building is designed to be naturally ventilated without the need for air conditioning and to make the most of natural light.
Sustainable Procurement: The University procures goods and services from a wide range of suppliers, from new buildings to stationery items, and preferably those which can be demonstrated to be environmentally friendly.
Biodiversity: The university landscaping contract ensures that grounds are maintained to high environmental standards, such as the planting of native species whenever trees need replacement.