7.4 Sustainability

In May 2019 the University of Exeter declared an Environmental and Climate Emergency to support those calling for urgent action and to show commitment to leading the change required. Our Vice-Chancellor at the time, Sir Steve Smith, said:

“Our mission, at the University of Exeter, is to make the exceptional happen by challenging traditional thinking and defying conventional boundaries. There is no greater challenge today than addressing the environment and climate emergency and we intend to play a full part in leading the changes required locally, nationally and globally.”

If you share our concerns, you will have many opportunities while studying here to get involved! We plan to become a Flagship Employer for Plastic Free Exeter, and received a ‘First Class Award’ in the People and Planet University ‘Green’ League 2017, finishing 18th out of 154 participating UK universities. The Green Gown Awards is an initiative that recognises the exceptional sustainability initiatives being undertaken by universities and colleges. Last year we were a finalist in four categories and won one of them and this year we’re very happy to be a finalist in the Student Engagement category for our Green Futures Scholarship scheme for post-graduates.

Take a look at our Climate Emergency Guide!

We care and look after our environment. The University of Exeter’s grounds across three campuses have been ranked among the best parks and green spaces in the country. The gardens and grounds at the University’s Streatham, St. Luke’s and Penryn campuses are some of the record number of parks and green spaces receiving the Green Flag Award this year as they are recognised as the most beautiful and botanically interesting of any UK university.

A committed team works on the grounds and outdoor sports facilities, 365 days a year. The work of the grounds staff includes the care of specialist plant collections, botanical specimen propagation, pot and bedding plant production, sports playing surface maintenance and award-winning floral decoration works.

University of Exeter’s Head of Ground and Operations, David Evans, said: ‘’We are delighted to have secured this honour once again.

‘’We always put sustainability at the core of everything we do and work closely with our colleagues and students to ensure that the grounds are maintained in as environmentally friendly a manner as possible.’’