Energy, carbon and water

Energy use in buildings is one of the most significant elements of our university’s carbon footprint. BU is investing in energy efficient equipment such as lighting, building management controls, boilers and heating systems to help run the estate as efficiently as possible. Our students and staff can play a key role in saving energy on and off campus.

The steps we're taking to save energy

BU has had a Carbon Management Plan since 2009 and has been implementing a wide range of energy and water-saving projects to save money and carbon. Examples include installing efficient LED lighting, a biomass boiler, two ground source heat pumps and over 1,500 solar panels. You can see the energy generated by our latest solar panel array on Poole House here.

The Carbon Management Plan was refreshed in 2016 with the target to reduce carbon emissions by 40% by 2020/21 against the 2005/6 baseline. This is an ambitious target given BU's growth plans. To meet it BU is continuing to invest in the estate and to support all staff and students in playing their part to reduce carbon emissions. The Plan builds on all the good work to date and sets out the key initiatives we will implement as we work towards the target. You can read more the full  Carbon Management Plan and its 2018-19 annual report. BU regularly reports its carbon emissions and also monitors indirect Scope 3 emissions. 

Our Energy and Water Policy sets out our commitment to minimising our energy and water consumption and installing renewable energy and water technologies. BU also has a Sustainable IT Policy which refers to the operation of IT infrastructure and services. It actively contributes towards our Sustainability Policy and the Carbon Management Plan. You can view all of our sustainable policies and documents on the governance and policies page.

Staff and student feedback and ideas are always welcome. For example, MSc Green Economy students complete an assignment in which they critically evaluate BU's Carbon Management Plan and suggest improvement. This assignment offers experience of reviewing a working document outlining environmental management in a large organisation, gives them an insight into the work that goes into managing our environmental impacts at BU and assists us in developing our plans. Read more examples of Education for Sustainable Development at BU.

What can you do?

We all have the power to make a difference! Here are some tips on how you can save energy and water:

- Turn off monitors, lights and any other equipment when not in use.
- Take the stairs rather than the lift.
- Take part in our Spot the Drop campaign and report any drips and leaks you see to us. If you’re the first to report it you could win a free stainless steel water bottle!

You can find more tips and keep up to date with everything sustainable at BU on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.