East Riding College has become the first college in the country to be awarded the highest level of accreditation from a new environmental scheme, only six months after joining.
The College earned the ‘Green Award’ from Investors in the Environment after staff worked hard to meet a range of criteria and showed a continual reduction in environmental impact.
Initiatives included reducing energy consumption by changing to more environmentally friendly light fittings, efficient building and room use, and running an awareness raising campaign.
The College also worked with East Riding of Yorkshire Council on sustainable travel initiatives, including encouraging cycling, implementing a car share scheme and promoting alternative modes of transport.
Principal Derek Branton said: “We are really proud to have achieved this award so soon into our membership – it shows the level of commitment among students and staff to reducing our carbon footprint and having a positive impact on the environment.
“Our accreditation is proof that by taking a good look at the way an organisation works and committing to change, you can reduce your costs and boost your green credentials at the same time.”
The Investors in the Environment scheme has seen a surge in members, including IKEA and Yorkshire Coast Homes, since its launch this summer.
The scheme is managed by the Yorkshire Energy Partnership – a leading local authority-owned sustainability company – and awards bronze, silver and green awards, the latter being the highest.
The College’s environmental award comes as it is introducing training courses for companies aiming to take advantage of the predicted growth in the renewables sector in the region.
The range of courses includes those in construction and engineering but also specialist qualifications such as environmental technologies and carbon management.
Hugh Cripps, chief executive at Yorkshire Energy Partnership, said: “Investors in the Environment is the fastest-growing scheme of its kind in Yorkshire – offering a new green ‘stamp of approval’ which insists that actual environmental savings are made, rather than just having the right paperwork in place.
“Just by working towards accreditation, organisations will reduce costs, boost their green credentials and attract new customers.
“It’s a one-stop-shop to cutting carbon and businesses are quick to see the resulting financial benefits come rolling in.”