University’s spotlight on sustainability recognised

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Four University of Edinburgh projects have been named finalists in the prestigious 2023 Green Gown Awards. The awards put a spotlight on the innovative and inspiring sustainability work taking place in universities and colleges across the UK to create a brighter future for their students.

The University’s IT Reuse project – which has reused more than 2,000 PCs and 2,000 other items like keyboards, mice, and monitors since 2015 – has been shortlisted in the Digital Futures category.

The University’s IT Reuse project

Two University projects have been named finalists in the Next Generation Learning & Skills category: the Case Studies in Sustainable Development postgraduate course and Edinburgh Earth Fellows.

Case Studies in Sustainable Development introduces students to the diverse range of approaches being used to achieve sustainable development, including international governance, national institutions, economic instruments, environmental regulation, technological innovation, new policy initiatives, and grassroots participation. The course considers various different scales for thinking about sustainable development, from global agreements to household practices and individual behaviours.

Edinburgh Earth Fellows provides paid opportunities for undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD students at the University to work on projects of strategic importance related to climate, environment, and sustainability.

The Earth Fellows programme homepage

The University’s role in the Nature Positive Universities Alliance – a network of universities that have made an official pledge to halt, prevent and reverse nature loss by addressing their own impacts and restoring ecosystems harmed by their activities – has been recognised in the Nature Positive category of the awards. By integrating green infrastructure, promoting sustainable landscaping, and engaging with local ecosystems, the University has contributed to building nature-positive environments.

The Nature Positive Universities Alliance

Edinburgh Earth Initiative staff and Earth Fellows

Dave Gorman, the University’s Director of Social Responsibility and Sustainability, said: “Here at the University of Edinburgh, our commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility is at the forefront of our endeavours. Being shortlisted for four Green Gown Awards is a testament to the dedication of our entire community – students, academic and professional staff – in striving for a more sustainable future.

“From our innovative IT Reuse initiative to fostering nature-positive environments, empowering students through case studies in sustainable development, and driving urgent climate research with the Edinburgh Earth Fellows program, these nominations reflect our commitment to positive change and environmental stewardship. As we look ahead to the Green Gown Awards ceremony in November, we’re excited to join the celebration of innovative sustainability initiatives that are shaping a brighter future.”

Winners will be announced at the Awards Ceremony, which will take place on Thursday 30 November at the Titanic Hotel in Liverpool.

The University will compete with 102 Finalists representing 65 institutions across the UK.

The University’s Green Gown Awards projects

Find out more

The University of Edinburgh has previously been honoured with numerous Green Gown Awards. Notable wins include the 2030 Climate Action, Campus Health, Food and Drink, and Sustainability Institution of the Year. The University has also been recognised for its research impact and achievements in promoting social responsibility and student-led initiatives.

The full list of 2023 Green Gown Awards finalists

The University’s previous awards for sustainability here