It is a pleasure to let you know that Brunel has seen a significant improvement in its position in the People and Planet Green League 2011, an independent league table based on the environmental and ethical performance of UK universities; announced in the Brunel Website (www.brunel.ac.uk).

The University rose to 50th place from 107th in 2010, out of 138 participating institutions. We received a '2.1' grade, moving from third class to upper second class.

Full marks were awarded for staff and student engagement, reflecting the commitment of Brunel’s community to creating a greener, more sustainable campus. Scores in environmental management doubled, following the implementation of an environmental management system and carbon management strategies.

The University also greatly improved its energy efficiency. Initiatives launched to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions include:

• ongoing green campaigns for students and staff;
• sourcing energy from 100% renewable resources;
• increasing recycling on campus;
• reducing waste sent to landfill to less than 10%.

The University’s ethical practices are well reflected in its maintenance of Fairtrade accreditation, its Sustainable Procurement Policy and the newly introduced Sustainable Food Policy.

Future developments will include embedding sustainable development in the curriculum and tackling carbon emissions generated by staff and students travelling to the campus.

The full announcement by Brunel University and associated links can be found in http://www.brunel.ac.uk/news-and-events/news/news-items/ne_81263