Green Gown Awards 2014 - Best Newcomer - Uxbridge College - Winner

E-Collegey at Uxbridge College

E-Collegey was launched at Uxbridge College in 2012 to boost participation in green activities and encourage awareness of sustainability issues.

The initiative has covered a range of activities for staff and students, including a student competition to design a logo. Campaigns were run to encourage staff and students to recycle more materials and switch off lights and computers, a photographic competition was held on a green theme, and a fashion show staged using recycled materials.

Teaching about sustainable technologies and practices has been included in the curriculum wherever possible, a car-sharing and cycle purchase scheme set up for staff, a bike workshop held, and an ecology area created on campus.

The College has also invested in cutting carbon emissions and saving money by maximising the use of sustainable technologies, materials, systems and practices in campus building and improvement projects.

Top 3 learnings

1 There is plenty of help and advice out there – online and through sector networks
2 Use regular communication to staff and students to keep the project live
3 Work with a diverse range of people who are interested in sustainability and are enthusiastic – great ideas will result that will appeal to a wider audience

What the judges say ...

A holistic approach which encompasses all aspects of the College, with good evidence of savings. Great to see the level of buy-in from stakeholders, including senior management and SMEs.

What it means to win ...

“Winning a Green Grown Award is important to Uxbridge College as it recognises our continuing commitment to providing a sustainable environment for our learners, staff and partners. As we continue to develop our sustainable practices the best newcomer award encourages and inspires us to do more.” 

Laraine Smith OBE, Principal and Chief Executive

Videos

• E-Collegey at Uxbridge College (click to hide)