UQ community urged to make a simple change for the environment

The University of Queensland is asking staff and students to “take the pledge” to help achieve a more sustainable university.

Sustainability Coordinator in UQ’s Property and Facilities division Suzanne Davis said the Sustainability Pledge was an initiative to inspire and motivate the UQ community to adopt more sustainable practices.

“It’s a simple change that could make a big difference to the environment,” she said.

“A number of leading universities around the world are asking their campus communities to take similar pledges to encourage a culture of environmental sustainability.

“The pledge on the UQ’s sustainability website www.uq.edu.au/sustainability encourages UQ staff and students to make positive changes.

“We hope it contributes to reducing the University's ecological footprint and fosters a greater awareness of sustainability at UQ.”

The pledge contains a number of ideas under eight themes that people can implement.

These range from activities to minimise energy, waste and water consumption, to choosing more sustainable transport and energy efficient equipment, engaging in green purchasing practices, supporting campus natural ecosystems and native flora and fauna, and a sustainable estate at UQ, minimising UQ's environmental risk, and participating actively in the University’s Sustainability program.

Students and staff who make the pledge by the end of September will go into the draw to win an iPad and $1000 to donate to a UQ Sustainability Project of their choice. The projects include UQ Solar, water bottle refill stations, cycling facilities, Lakes precincts enhancement and development of a Green Labs program.

Media: Jan King 0413 601 248