ABERYSTWYTH University has been awarded the EcoCampus Gold Award following an independent audit of its environmental management system.

The award recognises the university’s commitment to improving its environment and sustainability, and paves the way for securing the EcoCampus Platinum Award and the internationally accredited ISO14001 environment standard.

Amongst the initiatives undertaken during 2016 is the replacement of old campus street lights with low energy LED lights, which is expected to yield an 80 per cent reduction in electricity consumption.

New bike shelters have been installed as the University seeks to encourage more students and staff to cycle to work, and work on sowing wildflower seeds and planting bulbs – more than 50 different varieties - has been continuing apace to boost biodiversity and encourage wildlife on campus.

Also highlighted as good practice is the upgrading of the C66 Llandinam laboratory which is currently underway.

Covering water, energy, waste, health and wellbeing, and material procurement, the work complies with the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyor’s SKA sustainable rating for refurbishments.

Rebecca Davies, pro vice-chancellor and chief operating officer, said: “Aberystwyth University offers a exceptional learning and working environment, and we are delighted that the work of colleagues across the institution to enhance this has been acknowledged with the EcoCampus Gold Award."

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