The University of Sussex Releases its Sustainable Plan

The University of Sussex has revealed realistic plans to have a net-zero carbon impact for its whole operations within the upcoming 15 years. The university released its strategy, 'Sustainable Sussex,' which outlines how the university aims to restructure its heating, transport, and supply chains to become one of the world's most sustainable academic institutions. 

Commenting on the plan, Professor Tickell, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, said, "our ambition is for our strategy to act as a living, breathing vision powered by our staff and students."

"As COP 26 makes clear, we need to build back greener from the Covid pandemic, and so now is the time for the University to renew our already strong sustainability ethos."

The comprehensive sustainability plan intends to achieve the following goals: 

- Recycle 50% of rubbish by 2025, and minimize consumption produced per student by 10% by 2025.

- Create the UK's most biodiverse campus by reserving up to half of the land for wildlife.

- Target net-zero carbon emissions by 2035, including both direct and indirect carbon emissions. 

- Integrate sustainability into all elements of student learning and experience.

It is worth noting that THE's latest survey highlighted the importance of sustainable and environment-friendly goals for students instead of other goals like health. This means that the current student society would prioritize universities with clear sustainable plans over others. Therefore, the University of Sussex's plan might be beneficial on both the environmental side and the financial side.