Sustainable living

The University of Northampton is committed to reducing its impact on the environment. There are many ways in which you, as a student or member of staff, can help by reducing waste and energy use.

Energy saving

We all use energy every day, much of which involves the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil and gas); either directly for heating, cooking and transport, or indirectly for electricity generation. The University is committed to making efficient and environmentally responsible use of energy, which will help to lessen our consumption of finite resources and our contribution to climate change.

One way in which everyone can play their part and make a difference is in the elimination of wasted energy; whether in Halls of Residence, in academic and administrative areas on campus, or at home. The WWF carbon footprint calculator can help you understand your footprint and give you tips to reduce it.

Transport

In the UK car travel accounts for over 10% of the country's total carbon dioxide emissions and in a local context car usage is one of the main sources of air pollution, congestion and noise.

The University encourages students and staff to consider using alternative methods of transport to help reduce the impact of single occupancy car travel on the environment. Information to help reduce your emissions from travel is available from the Energy Saving Trust.

Waste

On average, each person in the UK throws away about half a tonne of rubbish every year, giving a country-wide total of 30 million tonnes. The University is committed to conserving raw materials and reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill. Consequently, staff and students are encouraged to help by reducing, re-using and recycling more. Information to help reduce the amount of waste you generate is available from the Energy Saving Trust.

Fairtrade

The University has been awarded official Fairtrade Status by the Fairtrade Foundation.

Fairtrade products can be purchased on the University's campuses from Beans, Greggs, AMT, the Students' Union and the Spar shop. They are also used in hospitality orders and at Sunley Management Centre.