Degrees Cooler: new green campaign at the University of Exeter

The University of Exeter has signed up to enhance ongoing work on sustainability. Since 2004 the University has saved 7,000 tonnes of CO2 thanks to a variety of energy saving initiatives and through the commitment of students and staff. The University is currently meeting a challenging target of reducing emissions of carbon dioxide by 2% year on year, despite considerable growth in activities.

The two year project will start immediately and is being run in conjunction with the National Union of Students (NUS), the Environmental Association for Universities and Colleges (EAUC), Student Switch Off and People & Planet. 

Karen Gallagher, Sustainability Manager at the University said ‘It is hoped that the project will reach out to all our staff and students over the next two years, engaging them to recycle more, use less energy, eat more sustainable local food and reduce non-essential flying’.

Wes Streeting, National President of NUS, said ‘The funding means NUS can support both staff and students to live greener lifestyles, helping them to enthuse those around them to do the same’. He added ‘Students today will have a major influence on the world tomorrow meaning the impact is direct and long lasting’.

Gemma Richens, Finance, Activities and Trading Officer at the Students’ Guild  of the University of Exeter, said: ‘We are thrilled to be working with the University on Degrees Cooler, and encourage everyone to take part as the scheme grows’.

Degrees Cooler is funded by the Greener Living Fund, sponsored by Defra. A total of £515,000 will be spent delivering greener lifestyle projects at twenty English universities over the next two years.

For more information please visit www.nus.org.uk or contact Julia Jack (Julia.Jack@ex.ac.uk)