The University of Glasgow has received The Carbon Trust Low Carbon Building Award for its Scottish Centre for Ecology and Natural Environment building at Rowardennan, on the banks of Loch Lomond.

The award, which was presented at the Scottish Energy and Environmental Conference (SEEC) on 7 February 2007, recognises Scottish buildings, which showcase leading examples of energy efficiency and sustainability. The University's Design Team, led by architects Page and Park received support from the Carbon Trust to ensure the centre was as energy efficient as possible.

One of the main contributing factors to the University's success is the ground source heat pump installed in the Rowardennan building. The pump draws energy from the ground providing a low carbon source of heat.

Albert Young, Energy Conservation Officer at the University, said: "It is very gratifying to be recognised for our work in developing Rowardennan. As a leader in research and education we have a responsibility to work towards low carbon, sustainable solutions across our estate in Glasgow and beyond. With the Rowardennan building we had the opportunity to input sustainable design features into the fabric of the building and the support of The Carbon Trust was important in helping us achieve this. The success of the ground source heat pump in helping to reduce energy consumption by 45% compared to a comparable building, and saving 140 tonnes of carbon a year, demonstrates what can be achieved".

John Stocks, manager of The Carbon Trust in Scotland, commented: "We are in the business of working with public and private sector organisations to deliver practical solutions to reduce carbon emissions. The Rowardennan project is a classic example of what can be achieved by a close partnership approach."

Kate Richardson (K.Richardson@admin.gla.ac.uk)

John Stocks and Albert Young are available for interview.

Contacts:
Fergus Reid at The Carbon Trust Press Office on 0141 222 2040 or 07971 583 535 or Claire Scott on 0131 555 0425
Kate Richardson at the University of Glasgow on 0141 330 3683 or email K.Richardson@admin.gla.ac.uk

SEEC
SEEC is organised on behalf of Scottish Executive and is now in its sixth successful year. It is sponsored by ScottishPower, BAE Systems, Envirowise and the Carbon Trust.

Over 250 energy and environmental professionals are expected to attend SEEC 2007, Scotland?s premier conference and exhibition in the energy and environmental management fields. This annual event provides the ideal opportunity for delegates to update themselves on the latest products and services, enabling their companies to benefit from improved energy efficiency or better environmental performance. SEEC attracts delegates from the industrial, commercial and academic sectors.

The Carbon Trust
? The Carbon Trust works with UK business and the public sector to cut carbon emissions and develop commercial low carbon technologies. An independent company set up by Government to help the UK meet its climate change obligations, the Carbon Trust creates practical business-focused solutions to carbon emission reduction on energy efficiency, carbon management, and investment.
? For more information on the Carbon Trust visit www.carbontrust.co.uk or call the Carbon Trust on 0800 085 2005.

The University of Glasgow is one of the United Kingdom?s oldest and most prestigious universities, with an international reputation for its research and teaching and an important role in the cultural and commercial life of the country.

First published: 7 February 2007