Our Performance

In addition to embedding sustainability in teaching and research, the University has a critical role in advancing sustainability through the way it manages its own operations. Our Environmental  Management System (EMS) is being implemented to help us understand, manage and reduce the  environmental impacts associated with our campuses and activities. By embedding environmental responsibility into everyday decision-making, the EMS supports the University’s commitment to sustainability, regulatory compliance and continual improvement. 

The EMS provides a structured framework that allows us to identify key environmental aspects such as energy use, water consumption, waste generation, travel and biodiversity impacts. Through clear policies, processes and procedures, measurable objectives and regular monitoring, the system helps the University track performance and implement practical improvements across departments and facilities. This approach ensures that sustainability is not treated as a standalone initiative but is integrated into planning, procurement, operations and campus development. 

Implementation of the EMS involves collaboration across the University community. Staff, students, and partners all play a role in identifying opportunities for improvement and supporting environmentally responsible practices. Training, communication and engagement activities help ensure that everyone understands how their actions contribute to the University’s environmental goals. Regular reviews and audits also help us evaluate progress and identify areas where further action is needed. From reducing carbon emissions and improving resource efficiency to supporting greener behaviours across campus, the system provides a clear pathway for continuous progress.  

The University’s progress has been formally recognised through the award of Gold EcoCampus status, achieved following a rigorous independent audit of its environmental management practices. EcoCampus is a leading environmental management framework for higher education institutions and is aligned with the international standard ISO 14001. The scheme supports universities in embedding environmental sustainability across all areas of their operations through a structured, phased approach. Achieving Gold status demonstrates the University’s strong commitment to managing its environmental impacts through clear objectives, defined responsibilities and robust operational controls. 

Building on this achievement, the University is continuing its journey toward Platinum EcoCampus status and full ISO 14001 certification - the highest level of recognition within the scheme. This next stage reflects our ambition to further strengthen environmental governance while creating meaningful opportunities for students and staff to participate in sustainability initiatives. These efforts also support the University’s wider strategic priorities, including the delivery of its Citizen Student strategy, empowering the University community to contribute positively to environmental and societal challenges.