In Epiphany Term 2020 we started to work with the EcoCampus Scheme. This helped us develop, implement, and maintain an environmental management system in line with international standards.

In December 2020 we completed the final stage for the Platinum Award. Each phase has been audited by an external auditor and we will conduct internal audits to the system regularly to ensure continuous improvements can be implemented. Our next external audit is due in December 2021, this will include a whole system review, on-site audits, and interviews with different teams across the University.

My Greenspace – rewarding wellbeing and sustainable behaviours

In Easter Term we launched a pilot of My Greenspace, a website and app that rewards you with prizes and charity donations for completing sustainable actions. Fully launched to all staff and students in Michaelmas Term, My Greenspace recommends simple activities, which you can complete to be more sustainable and earn Green Points.

Since the launch of our pilot to a small group of staff and students at the University, we have been so impressed by their positive actions to drive sustainability across the University. During the first three months, trial participants completed 2,834 actions, avoiding over 3,300 kg carbon emissions. This is a staggering achievement! Our winning team, Biosciences, topped the leader board and sent their £200 donation prize to Durham Wildlife Trust.

Now you can get involved! We’ve now rolled out My Greenspace to all staff and students at the University, growing our community of green champions. We can't wait to expand the My Greenspace community and encourage all staff and students to be as sustainable as possible.

Congratulations to the top points earners who have earned themselves a £20 voucher.

Student sustainability internships: energy & biodiversity

Over the summer we arranged four paid student internships - three in association with Durham Energy Institute (DEI) and one in the Department of Biosciences.

The three DEI interns, Diana, Gregorio and Peter worked to review data and conducted energy audits in the Departments of Biosciences, Chemistry and Engineering. In September they delivered a fantastic summary presentation in the Teaching & Learning Centre to members of the Estates and Facilities Directorate, DEI, Departmental Operational Managers and Research and Innovation Services.

The Department of Biosciences intern, Kian, worked to develop the University’s first Biodiversity Action Plan, using ecological surveys and GIS maps created in 2020 by Dr Stuart Brooker, who was also employed by the Energy & Sustainability Team.

Biodiversity

We have recently developed a new Biodiversity Action Plan – please see our Sway for more details.