We are creating a more sustainable future for our University.

Overview

What it is: A series of transformative projects aiming to promote operational and financial resilience, optimise the use of vital resources to help us achieve Net Zero, enhance biodiversity, and cultivate a more sustainable, enriching environment for living, working, and studying. 

Why it’s better for you: By embracing sustainable resource use and advanced technology, we’ll create a campus that’s not only more eco-friendly and ready for the future but also a better place for staff and students.

Why it’s better for the University: Through sustainable practices, we can build a brighter, greener future for our community as well as being recognised as a leading institution dedicated to environmental, social and economic sustainability.

When it’s happening: Work began over the summer 2024. Our plans are shaped by ongoing consultations to ensure we’re making the best choices for everyone.

Our vision

The world is facing a climate emergency, and we must act now to mitigate and survive. The Sustainability Programme will enable us all to learn, collaborate and thrive in an environmentally resilient campus. It will empower our collective wisdom to solve complex problems and reach Net Zero together. Innovative, sustainable use of resources and technology will make it a better place to work, live and study. We will act with purpose and integrity, as one of the most sustainable universities in the world. 

About the Programme

The Sustainability Programme aims to enhance the University's resilience to climate change risks through long-term improvements, adaptations and mitigations. We are working to identify solutions to address significant challenges facing the University. 

The programme will focus on these key areas of sustainability: 

  • Energy and Buildings 
  • Environment and Biodiversity 

  • Food 

  • Water  

  • Waste and Resources 

  • Travel 

  • Supply Chain. 

Key Programmes

Sustainability is a key driver across the Capital Programme, shaping many projects that contribute to our environmental performance, including the Network Replacement Programme, West Slope, and the Digital Infrastructure Programme.

  • The West Slope development is being constructed to BREEAM ‘Excellent’ standard which evaluates the sustainability of both the final building and the materials and methods used during construction. This development will incorporate sustainable technologies, including solar panels and water recycling systems, along with green roofs to support biodiversity, lawns and native planting to create an environment for wildlife to thrive. Learn more on the West Slope webpages.  

  • Sustainable procurement: We have already worked to ensure our catering partners have a commitment to sustainable food practices. As other contracts near renewal, we will integrate sustainability into every service we procure with the development of a new green procurement strategy. 

The Sustainability Programme is a key component of ongoing work towards achieving our broader sustainability goals. You can read more about environmental sustainability at Sussex on our dedicated webpages.

Read more about other projects and programmes across the Capital Programme.

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