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University submits 'proud' report to United Nations on fight against climate change

University submits 'proud' report to United Nations on fight against climate change

Buckinghamshire New University has reported to the United Nations on its progress against the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Accord, signed by the University in February 2020 when it joined education institutions in fighting against climate change.

The University is today (16 September) publicly sharing its submission to provide transparency around the progress it has made against the 17 SDGs.

Professor Nick Braisby, Vice-Chancellor at Bucks New University said:

"Although we are at an early stage of explicitly aligning the SDGs to our strategic work, I am very proud of all that our University community has already done to make a positive impact locally, nationally and globally. At Buckinghamshire New University, we’ve always taken our environmental responsibilities seriously and we’re committed to building on our achievements because we know that sustainability is as important to our students and stakeholders as it is to our people. That’s why we’ve redoubled our efforts in the fight against climate change."

In February 2020, the University pledged to reduce its carbon footprint to net zero by 2030 - 20 years ahead of the Government’s target – and joined the Climate Commission Council.

The University’s Impact 2022 strategy expresses the importance of corporate social responsibility and reaffirms the University’s commitments to reduce its impact on the environment; increase sustainability in its operation and education; and address challenges through building effective and strategic partnerships.

Professor Braisby added: "Impact 2022 sets new targets to meet the highest standards in relation to our environment, including energy, waste and travel. We will deliver against our mission as a civic University, engaging with communities across the county of Buckinghamshire and elsewhere. We will engage effectively with business, actively contributing to the local and national industrial strategies, and economic growth within the region. We will minimise the impact of our University estate on the environment."

In 2019, Bucks became the first UK University to achieve a Gold award in a scheme which recognises sustainable and ethical organisations for their excellence in corporate social responsibility. The University’s activities were rigorously assessed across four areas: environment; philanthropy; community and workplace.