The Sustainability Forum
In December 2009, as part of a new framework for embedding environmental sustainability across the University, Senior Executive endorsed the establishment of a Sustainability Forum to explore opportunities in our operations, through the curriculum and in research on campus.
The Sustainability Forum is co-chaired by Professor Tom Kvan, Dean of Architecture, Building & Planning and Assistant VC (Campus Development) and Mr Chris White, Executive Director, Property & Campus Services.
The Forum comprises representatives from all of the University’s budget divisions, acts as an advisory group to the Vice-Chancellor and reports annually to Council on University achievements in Sustainability.
Five working groups have been established to undertake work and report back on key areas through which Sustainability can be progressed across the University. These groups focus on:
- Curriculum
- Campus Operations
- Campus as a Laboratory
- Research
- Student & Staff Capacity Building
The outcomes of the working groups illustrate the enormous potential that exists to progress the University as a true leader exemplifying sustainability through all its activities:
- numerous on-campus research projects largely involving local energy generation,
- developing our frameworks to enable Education for Sustainability,
- opportunities for showcasing our operational achievements through the development of a Campus Sustainability Centre, self-guided walking tours and signage
- engaging students and staff through an annual Sustainability Grants Scheme, funded by Property & Campus Services
- sponsorship of the Green Star Communities Project
- the development of a Communications Plan to engage and inspire the University community in all these activities.