Uni is the UK’s greenest
READING has been revealed as the UK’s greenest university in the 2023/2024 People and Planet University League table.
Compiled annually by the UkKs largest student campaigning network, the survey ranks universities by their environmental and ethical performance.
Places of learning were judged by criteria including: environmental policy, auditing and environmental management systems (EMS), carbon management, sustainable food, and ethical investment.
Other areas scrutinised included: sustainability staff, workers’ rights, engagement, education, energy sources, waste and recycling, carbon reduction and water reduction.
The University of Reading scored 81.8% the highest mark of the 151 educational establishments graded.
Reading did especially well in the areas of auditing and EMS, sustainable food, sustainability staff, and education, achieving
100% in all four areas.
Engagement and carbon reduction earned it 90%, followed closely by its carbon management, energy sources, and environmental policy
Professor Robert Van de Noort, Vice Chancellor of the University of Reading, said: “We have a long history of leadership in environmental and agricultural science, as well as social and political issues.
“We’re nearing our centenary and have always aimed not just to educate people and do research to learn about the world, but to do something about it as well.
“Our commitment to address climate change and be a leader in global environmental sustainability came from the ground up – it was what our students, academics and local community told us that they wanted to do.
“It is wonderful to top the People & Planet league, but we must continue to drive forward.
“We’ve cut our carbon by 60% but have much to do to achieve our commitment to Net Zero carbon.
“We are working towards ensuring students of all ages have a good climate education, within the University and within schools and colleges.”