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Environmental awareness

In 2007, Glasgow was one of only two European universities to feature in a global list of 15 green colleges and universities published by American environmental news and commentary magazine, Grist.

What are we doing to make a difference?

  • Nearly 50% of our electricity comes from green sources, which saves around 10,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide every year.
     
  • Our entire campus operates a policy of mandatory paper recycling. We produce on average 3,500 tonnes of waste per year, and the savings we make from recycling are re-invested into future environmental projects.
     
  • We operate a Green Transport Policy that is designed to encourage all staff and students to both reduce hydrocarbon consumption and, at the same time, improve health though increased exercise. See: www.gla.ac.uk/travelplanning
     
  • Bower Building with detail of flowersOur award-winning environmentally friendly lighting system within the Wolfson Medical School Building uses glass walls, meaning that lighting is not needed during the day, but at night is controlled centrally to use as little electricity as possible.
     
  • We are engaged in ground-breaking research into sustainability. Our Scottish Centre for Ecology & the Natural Environment is a showcase for sustainable design. It recently received the Carbon Trust Scottish Low Carbon Building Award, and an ‘excellent’ rating for the sustainability of its design from the Building Research Executive.
     
  • Our students can get involved in green issues through initiatives such as the student-run Dirty Weekenders Conservation Society.

The university's green credentials

  • Glasgow was the first Scottish university to be Energy Accredited in 1998.
     
  • The Higher Education Funding Council named us the most energy efficient higher education institution in the UK in 2005.
     
  • We are only the second university in Scotland to achieve Fairtrade status.
     
  • Our catering is accredited through the Sunflower Standard by the UK Vegan Society: we are the first University to gain such an award.