USQ sustainability honoured in France
THE University of Southern Queensland’s environmental sustainability initiatives have brought it to the world stage.
USQ was a finalist in the Continuous Improvement: Institutional Change prize at the 2018 International Green Gown awards in Marseille, France on Thursday night.
It followed the university’s win at the Australasian awards in the same category last year.
The Green Gown Awards recognise exceptional sustainability initiatives by universities and colleges around the world.
USQ, one of only three Australasian finalists at the awards, was commended for its university-wide approach to sustainability.
Campus Services executive director Dr Dave Povey said universities played a leading role in educating the leaders, professionals and policy makers of tomorrow on environmental issues.
“As part of that leadership, USQ is committed to improving its sustainability through a number of eco-friendly initiatives,” Dr Povey said.
“At USQ we’re integrating sustainability into strategic planning, and implementing projects in renewable energy and energy efficiency, water conservation, resource recovery and waste management.
“These initiatives have seen a 32 per cent reduction in waste to landfill; 25 per cent increase in recycling and resource recovery; 84 per cent reduction in bore water extraction; and a 15 per cent decrease in vehicle emissions.
UK’s Canterbury Christ Church University took out the International Green Gown ‘Continuous Improvement: Institutional Change’ award.