Bournemouth University, is one of the biggest employers in the county with student body of over 17,000. Through clear leadership, strategic planning and focus on sustainability behaviours, it has embedded a culture of sustainability and environmental awareness across its operations.
Bournemouth University (BU) isn’t just about academic excellence; it’s about making a real-world difference. With a motto of “to learn is to change,” BU is deeply committed to environmental sustainability, embedding it into every aspect of university life.
A Robust Foundation
BU’s dedication to environmental stewardship is evident in its comprehensive strategy. Certified to ISO14001 and ISO50001 standards, the university boasts a robust Environmental and Energy Management System. This framework, guided by a dedicated Sustainability Committee with representatives from across the university, ensures clear policies, active data collection, and measurable impact.
Action-Oriented Approach
At the heart of BU’s strategy lies the Climate and Ecological Crisis Action Plan (CECAP). This ambitious plan outlines 94 actions across 8 key objectives, targeting a 50% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030/31. From investing in renewable energy sources like solar panels and ground source heat pumps to implementing a “pay-by-weight” waste management system, BU is taking concrete steps to minimize its environmental footprint.
Its Estates and Sustainability teams has successfully switched Dorset House to low carbon heating. The project, which is the first of its kind at BU, has replaced fossil fuel natural gas-fired boilers in Dorset House with an air to water heat pump system, which should reduce BU’s emissions by an estimated scope one gas carbon emissions of 71 tCO2e (71 tonnes of Greenhouse Gas emissions) per year.
As part of its CECAP, Staff and students are encouraged to use the circle of control model to keep track of how their actions can make a difference – to focus on what they control – such as what they buy, what they eat and how they choose to travel. Then focus on who and what they can influence.
BU’s Climate and Ecological Crisis Action PLan (CECAP) lies at the heart of the organisation’s strategy.
Championing Biodiversity
BU recognises the importance of protecting biodiversity along side carbon reduction. With initiatives like wildflower meadows, new tree plantings, and bird boxes across its campuses, the university is creating havens for wildlife. BU’s research actively contributes to regional biodiversity, with projects like artificial reef installations in Poole Harbour and habitat surveys in the Purbecks National Park.
Engaging the Community
The university fosters a culture of sustainability through staff and student engagement. Initiatives like the “Refill Campus” campaign, which encourages reusable coffee cups and provides water refill points, promote eco-conscious behaviour. By embedding sustainability into the curriculum and offering innovative learning opportunities like Carbon Literacy training, BU empowers its community to become agents of change.
Looking Ahead
BU’s commitment to sustainability is an ongoing journey. It recognises the continued need to invest in new technologies, monitor its progress, and engage its community in creating a greener future. By fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and actively contributing to solutions, BU is truly leading the way in higher education sustainability.