The University is one of just six universities overall that achieved the highest rank in the Uswitch Green Universities 2023 Report, which looks at those who are leading the way in terms of green initiatives and renewable energy.
Eco-friendly initiatives were commended, including the team of sustainability champions and wider SustainNET network, which promotes sustainability across all aspects of University life and the wider community.
The study also acknowledged the University’s use of solar panels, schemes to promote cycling to work, wide-ranging green campaigns, car sharing and the fleet of electric campus vehicles.
This news comes as the University celebrates 90 years at its Ormskirk campus with an ever-growing commitment to sustainability and biodiversity.
Steve Igoe, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, said: “As a major employer and consumer of resources, we’ve long been aware of our impact and influence and have been playing our part in responding to larger-scale sustainability pressures.
“Recycling rates of over 50%, six years of zero waste to landfill and CO2e emissions down by 26% in 15 years. At Edge Hill, sustainability has always been at the heart of what we do.
“To be ranked platinum in our 90th anniversary of moving to Ormskirk is fantastic news, although we certainly won’t rest on our laurels. A new Environmental Sustainability Plan and committee are ensuring we stay ambitious in our drive to be a responsible player locally, regionally, and nationally. Targets to become Carbon Neutral by 2030 and Net Zero by 2035 are high on our agenda with travel and carbon management plans too.”
The fifth annual study by Uswitch involved a Freedom of Information request which asked 132 universities about procurement of energy, sustainability in the curriculum and green policies.
Ben Gallizzi, energy expert at Uswitch.com, commented on the positive news: “It’s great to see that some universities are going above and beyond in attempting to become green universities. The ways in which becoming greener and existing more sustainably can be achieved are numerous, and the steps that some of these establishments are taking are commendable.”
Imaginatively landscaped with two lakes and a beach, the University’s hedgehog-friendly 160-acre campus has won a Green Flag award 12 years in a row, as one of the UK’s best green spaces. To find more about the University’s commitments to sustainability, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/sustainability.
October 6, 2023
