University of Bristol Ranked Among Most Sustainable Universities in UK
A recent survey has identified and ranked the University of Bristol as one of the most sustainable universities in the UK. The survey which was completed by the People & Planet University League analysed a total of 154 UK and the University of Bristol was ranked the 20th most sustainable.
Following the University of Bristol were Oxford University in 25th place and Cambridge University in 82nd among others. The People & Planet University League made their rankings by looking at 13 different criteria. Some of these include carbon reduction to waste recycling, water consumption, workers’ rights, and more.
The University of Bristol scored extremely well in the categories ‘education for sustainable development’, ‘ethical and investment banking’ and ‘environmental auditing & management systems’.
The University of Bristol has experienced a good year with their green mission, investing £235,000 in more electric vehicles which are due to be on campus this year. In addition, installing 80 new recycling facilities. They also received an award for becoming the first university across the globe to achieve the 100% Green Lab Certification. Alongside that, they were given Fairtrade University status and achieved a 3-star Zero Waste Accolade last year.
Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Judith Squires said: “This year we saw a lot of global action around COP26 and a number of troubling symptoms of climate change. We are delighted the University of Bristol has performed incredibly in this landmark survey.”
She adds: “Our sustainability team worked very hard to implement sustainability into each decision we made, from the water we use to the food we serve, to ensuring our laboratories are environmentally sound.”
The People & Planet ranked each of the universities across five categories: 1st class, 2/1 class, 2:2 class, 3rd class, and ‘failed’. The University of Bristol achieved 1st class. The least sustainable university was discovered to be the University of Sunderland and Manchester Metropolitan University was recognised as the best.
Although a number of UK universities were successful in the survey, some were not as impressive. Therefore, the People & Planet have stressed the need for these universities to work on becoming more sustainable.
University League Manager at People & Planet, Jack Ruana said: “Numerous institutions have improved and have met the carbon reduction targets. However, it is saddening that most of the institutions are still not on track to meet the 15 year long sector-wide HEFCE carbon reduction target before the deadline next year. The sector needs to prioritise rapid and immediate decarbonisation”.
