Going green, staying sustainable

The University is committed to sustainability, making ethical choices that minimise the resources we consume and leave the least possible impact on the planet. By reducing, re-using and recycling, we can often save money and help support other people to live more easily. Controlling heating more precisely, using energy-efficient equipment and lighting saves on energy costs, and developing a more energy-efficient estate all save money in the longer term. It also reduces our carbon footprint and pollution, creating a cleaner, safer planet for future generations. So what is the University doing to become more sustainable?

Cutting carbon emissions

We’ve reduced our carbon emissions by 50% since 2009 by reducing our electricity, gas, water and fuel usage, and improving our waste disposal by introducing more efficient heating, movement-sensitive LED lighting, and better insulation

Reducing, reusing, recycling

• Our recycling rate is now 70%
• We now waste only 2% of our food
• All our non-recyclable waste goes to an energy recovery facility to create electricity
• We use recycled paper, inks and finishes for all our printing
• We’re eliminating single-use plastic from products sold in our campus cafes
• Our graduation gowns are 70% recycled polyester made from recycled plastic bottles

Pioneering sustainability research

We are pioneering approaches to protect the environment, including developing a plastic-digesting enzyme.

Building sustainably

All our new buildings aim for ‘Outstanding’ BREEAM ratings (the world’s leading sustainability validation and certification system) and ‘A’ rating for energy use and carbon emissions.

Clad in sustainable terracotta and carbon neutral panels, solar powered and naturally lit, Ravelin Sports Centre uses rooftop heat pumps that draws heat from people working out in the fitness suite. Swimming pool water flushes the toilets, and a community orchard is part of a sustainable drainage system. Bat and bird boxes and a wildflower amphitheatre events space develop biodiversity in the surrounding parkland.The new Ravelin Sports Centre is one of the most sustainable sports facilities in the UK.

The University Library held an Excellent BREEAM rating when it was completed, being built from materials that help maintain stable internal temperatures without the need for air conditioning in all but the most extreme weather, collecting rainwater to flush toilets, and a desing thet maximises solar lighting while minimising solar gain (heating).

Engaging in civic leadership

The University runs the Portsmouth Climate Action Board and Portsmouth Climate Festival with the City Council.

Let us know what you think

What else would you like to see the University doing to be still more sustainable? Do you have any top tips for sustainable living? Let us know in the comments below!