Local Engagement
Sustainability networks are essential for developing holistic outcomes that are compatible and collaborative with the community. The University is engaged with a number of groups with sustainable principles that mirror or build upon those of UNE. Two of the principle networks that UNE is involved in are described below.
Armidale Sustainable Living Expo
Armidale’s Sustainable Living Expo (SLEX) began in 2007 as a small event to gauge community and business response to promoting more sustainable practices in the city and region. UNE has been a key sponsor and exhibitor each year as the expo has gone from strength to strength. SLEX is the embodiment of one of the key goals derived from the Talloires Declaration, that is:
“Ensure effective communication to UNE and outside community on our progress in moving towards Environmental Sustainability at UNE.”
It also allows businesses and organizations external to the University to showcase sustainability initiatives. This ultimately seeks to display Armidale and the surrounding region as offering an outstanding quality of life to those fortunate to live and work in the area.
Further details can be found at: http://www.slex.com.au/
Northern Inland Sustainability Business Network
The University is proud to be a key supporter and champion member of The Northern Inland Sustainable Business Network (NISBN). The network is an initiative aimed at providing hands-on, practical and local assistance to business as they embark on the sustainability challenge.
The main focus of NISBN is to provide:
- Opportunities for businesses to improve their sustainability
- A one-stop-shop for business environmental resources
- Access to expert speakers on topics of sustainability
- A supplier database for regional businesses
- Case studies of sustainable champions in the Northern Inland region
- A showcase for sustainable initiatives and projects
- A supportive environment for linking with like-minded businesses
Further details can be found at: http://www.nisbn.org.au/
Carbon Emissions
Emissions management at UNE aims to accurately monitor and evaluate UNE’s carbon footprint and to identify opportunities for reducing emissions attributable to the University’s operations. To achieve this UNE is actively reviewing energy use and transport practices, improving building design and considering options for the onsite generation of renewable energy.
In 2008 UNE engaged an external consultant to conduct an audit of our current greenhouse emissions and provide recommendations for future reductions. The results of the audit showed that the University was among the top performers in the tertiary education sector for tonnes of CO2/equivalent fulltime student. Following on from this audit several reduction initiatives have been put into place, these include;
- Improvements to energy metering and building management systems.
- Sustainable design initiatives incorporated into new and retro-fitted building designs.
- Options for the onsite generation of renewable energy.
Did you know?
UNE reduced its carbon emissions by 3.02% in the 12 months to 30 June 2009.