The University and Students’ Union (SU) have worked together on this issue, and the University has now agreed to divest itself of direct holdings in fossil fuels.
The move comes following advocacy from the SU as part of its ‘Top Ten’ aim focussed on environmental practices.
Martin Williams, Director of Finance, said: “The University has taken another positive step as part of our wider programme looking at our overall sustainability. The University’s carbon emissions have reduced by 17% since 2005 despite the organisation’s growth, and self-generated electricity now accounts for 7% of our total use. In addition, we have cut our water use by 20% in 10 years. We were very proud to be the first UK University to carry out coffee cup recycling, and we will continue our plans to increase recycling and reduce plastic waste.”
Ben Davies, President of the SU, said: “The SU is delighted that the University is divesting from direct holdings in fossil fuels. This comes after several years of campaigning particularly from one of our SU groups - People and Planet - who have worked extremely hard to help bring about this positive change and it shows a real step forwards in working towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly University.”
You can read the University’s Annual Sustainability Reports here.