London Metropolitan University wins Public Sector Sustainability Award

The award promotes environmental leadership and innovation and inspires all those in the public sector committed to reducing the carbon footprint of their organisation.

Rachel Ward, Estates Energy Manager, says, “It's fantastic that London Met have become a sector leader in carbon reduction. “This award is very much about teamwork. A lot of hard work from so many people across the university has gone in to achieving this and we wouldn't have been able to make such a positive impact if it wasn't for this support and we want to build on this success. “It's an award for every student and staff member.” The Award was presented by the Public Sector Sustainability Magazine, the official magazine of the Public Sector Sustainability Association. In order to achieve the award, the University had to submit a 1000-1500 word document outlining what measures they take to reduce their green impact. “The judges commented that they were particularly impressed with the work we undertake to match our room bookings exactly with our heating and cooling. It takes around 3-4 hours a week but is worth the effort. The other area that impressed them was that we included energy costs on our room hire fees to help raise awareness,” says Rachel Ward.

London Met has some exciting projects to look forward to in the future including new solar panels on top of the Science Centre at Holloway Road. “We will install the University's first renewable energy by December,” says Rachel. “We'll also install a display screen in reception so staff and students will be able to see how much electricity we are generating.”

London Met has recently been named “best in England” for carbon reduction after highly successful schemes, including a new electric mail van, were introduced to the university.
The success comes after London Met’s nomination for the Green Gown Awards having exceeded the target of reducing carbon emissions by 33% and have saved over £1.5 million in energy costs.

Nominees of the PSS award were assessed based on cost effectiveness, communication, partnerships, innovation and carbon reduction commitment.