Make a green resolution in 2023

Greater support to help colleagues make simple changes to be kinder to the environment is coming in the new year.

An army of sustainability champions will be recruited as part of the new Our Future First programme, led by the Sustainability team, while schools and departments will be aided in reducing their own carbon footprints and colleagues will be encouraged to make green resolutions for 2023.

The aim is to build on our progress in 2022, which saw the University reach a 51% carbon emissions reduction since 2008, and make further steps towards our 2030 net zero ambition.

What is planned?

The Our Future First programme will include:

• Support for schools and departments to produce tailored carbon reduction plans.
• Additional prizes for taking part in Doing UoR Bit – the University’s online platform that allows colleagues and students to record green actions to earn points and rewards.
• A new year’s resolution scheme for colleagues, culminating in an exhibition.
• Celebrating success by sharing colleagues’ sustainability stories and inspiring others.

Dan Fernbank, the University’s Energy & Sustainability Director, said: “By actively listening, connecting and collaborating with each other, we can all take small actions that collectively create a big positive change.

“We plan to celebrate success and share good ideas to embed sustainable principles into our culture, so everyone can play their part in moving towards a greener future for the University and our planet.”

More information on how to get involved in the Our Future First programme will be published on the Staff Portal in the new year. Contact sustainability@reading.ac.uk with any questions in the meantime.

Have yourself a sustainable little Christmas

For those of us that don’t want to wait until the new year to be greener, the Sustainability team has published a blog with some ideas on how to be environmentally sustainable over the winter break.

Colleagues are also asked to switch off lights, computers and unused appliances, such as water heaters and fridges, over the closure period, which will considerably reduce our carbon emissions and save tens of thousands of pounds worth of electricity.