Company number: 12497951
6 Sutton Park Road, Sutton, SM1 2GD

Environment and Sustainability Policy

Policy Statement

The School is committed to advancing environmental stewardship and promoting sustainability in all aspects of its operations and academic endeavours. Understanding the urgency of environmental challenges, our 'Environment and Sustainability Policy' reflects a pledge to integrate sustainable practices within the School’s culture, strategy, and daily activities. This commitment extends to all members of the School community, including students, faculty, staff, and external partners, who together contribute to a sustainable future. Through this policy, the School aspires to minimise its environmental footprint, educate on sustainability, and encourage positive action towards environmental preservation.

Principles

  • Sustainability: Championing sustainability as a core value within our educational and operational framework.
  • Conservation: Actively working to conserve resources and reduce waste.
  • Education: Embedding sustainability principles into our curriculum and community engagement.
  • Innovation: Encouraging innovative solutions to environmental challenges.
  • Responsibility: Recognising and acting upon our environmental responsibilities.
  • Collaboration: Fostering partnerships to advance shared sustainability goals.
  • Compliance: Adhering to relevant environmental laws and regulations.
  • Leadership: Leading by example in implementing sustainable practices.
  • Accountability: Transparently reporting on our environmental performance.
  • Continuous Improvement: Continued evaluation and improvement of our sustainability efforts.
  • Awareness: Raising awareness of environmental issues within the School community.
  • Biodiversity: Promoting biodiversity and the protection of natural habitats on campus.

Regulatory Context

This Policy has been developed in line with the applicable laws, regulations, regulatory advice, and sector best practices, including the following:

Authority Name Url
Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) Code of Practice for Higher Education
Guidance for higher education providers on their obligations under equality law.
Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) The Quality Code
This code represents a shared understanding of quality practice across the UK higher education sector, protecting public and student interests and championing the UK's reputation for quality.
Office of the Independent Adjudicator (OIA) The Good Practice Framework
Principles and operational guidance to support HE providers to develop and follow fair processes for complaints and appeals.
Advance HE Code of Governance for Universities
A code of governance that sets out the principles and standards that universities in the UK should follow.

Strategic Focus 1: Advance Sustainability Education

Title
Rule
Building Foundational Knowledge

We will:

  • Introduce basic sustainability concepts into the existing curriculum.
  • Host introductory workshops and seminars on environmental issues.
  • Provide online resources and guides on sustainability practices.
  • Encourage student-led sustainability projects and initiatives.
  • Establish a sustainability committee to oversee educational activities.

Starting with foundational education builds awareness and lays the groundwork for more advanced sustainability initiatives as the institution grows.

Strategic Focus 2: Achieve Carbon Neutrality

Title
Rule
Initiating Carbon Reduction Efforts

We will:

  • Conduct an initial carbon footprint assessment to identify major sources of emissions.
  • Implement energy-saving measures such as LED lighting and programmable thermostats.
  • Encourage staff and students to use energy-efficient practices and reduce unnecessary travel.
  • Begin using renewable energy options where feasible, starting with small-scale initiatives.
  • Track and report progress annually on carbon reduction efforts.

Beginning with basic carbon reduction measures sets a solid foundation for more ambitious goals and demonstrates commitment to sustainability from the outset.

Strategic Focus 3: Promote a Zero-Waste Culture

Title
Rule
Introducing Waste Reduction Practices

We will:

  • Set up clearly marked recycling bins in common areas.
  • Start a paper and electronic waste recycling programme.
  • Reduce the use of disposable items by promoting reusable alternatives.
  • Educate staff and students on proper recycling and waste reduction methods.
  • Monitor waste streams and adjust practices based on initial findings.

Implementing basic waste reduction practices is a practical first step in establishing a zero-waste culture, paving the way for more comprehensive initiatives later.

Strategic Focus 4: Support Sustainable Transportation

Title
Rule
Encouraging Eco-Friendly Commutes

We will:

  • Provide information on local public transport options and cycling routes.
  • Set up a bike rack for those who choose to cycle to campus.
  • Offer incentives, such as discounts or recognition, for those using public transport or carpooling.
  • Develop a simple policy to encourage walking or cycling where possible.
  • Begin discussions on further initiatives as the institution grows and transportation needs evolve.

Introducing basic support for sustainable transportation makes it easier for the community to adopt eco-friendly commuting options without requiring major infrastructure changes initially.

Strategic Focus 5: Ensure Environmental Compliance

Title
Rule
Establishing Compliance Procedures

We will:

  • Review and comply with relevant local environmental regulations and standards.
  • Develop simple guidelines for staff and suppliers on environmental practices.
  • Conduct periodic reviews of compliance and address any issues promptly.
  • Provide basic training for staff on environmental responsibilities and regulations.
  • Report on compliance status in annual sustainability reviews.

Establishing basic compliance procedures ensures that the institution meets legal requirements and sets a foundation for more robust environmental practices as operations expand.

Metrics and KPIs

The following metrics will be measured and regularly reviewed as key performance indicators for the School to ensure the effectiveness of this policy and associated operations.

Title
Carbon Footprint Assessment Completion
Complete a comprehensive carbon footprint assessment within the first six months of the policy implementation.
This KPI establishes a baseline for future carbon reduction efforts and helps identify key areas for improvement.
Green Certification Achievement
Achieve at least one green certification, such as a local environmental award, within the first two years.
Certifications validate the institution's commitment to sustainability and provide external recognition of efforts.
Renewable Energy Adoption
Description: Source 5% of the institution’s energy needs from renewable sources within the first year.
Early adoption of renewable energy demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and sets a precedent for future goals.
Sustainability Education Participation
Ensure that 75% of staff and students participate in at least one sustainability workshop or training session within the first year.
Education is fundamental to fostering a culture of sustainability; tracking participation helps gauge the effectiveness of educational initiatives.
Policy: Environment and Sustainability Policy