De Montfort University

Campus, City, Community – A holistic approach to carbon management

De Montfort University (DMU) takes a comprehensive approach to carbon management which embraces changes to the physical campus as well as embedding sustainability into teaching and learning and engaging with both staff and students to encourage behaviour change. The university has recently acknowledged the Climate Emergency and made a series of commitments to address its own carbon emissions and to support other to do the same.

The university has successfully implemented its first Carbon Management Plan which has seen carbon emission from scope 1 and 2 sources reduce by 49% based on its 2005 baseline year. This target was reached one year ahead of the 2020 timescale.

The new Carbon Plan is the first of a three phase approach to reduce emissions from scope 1 and 2 sources to net carbon zero by 2032.

As well as the physical changes to the campus which have been identified in the Carbon Plan the university is also engaging staff and students in climate action.

What the Judges Thought

The judges loved this ambitious yet modest submission. We could really see the widening participation, great mobilisation and clear engagement across a broad spectrum of stakeholders. We liked the future plans detailed and acknowledgement of where you are on your journey. Carbon literacy scheme was particularly impressive going beyond the usual. A good holistic approach and chimes with the category well. 

What it Means to Win

"DMU is taking a leading role on climate action through the management of its campuses, engaging with staff and students and being a climate leader in its local community. Being awarded this Green Gown Award in the ‘2030 Climate Action’ category is a wonderful acknowledgement of our work in this area."

Professor Katie Normington, Vice-Chancellor

Top 3 Learnings

1. A consultation process can lead to long term relationships with other parts of the university.
2. Make use of the expertise and knowledge within the institution.
3. Be open and accountable about carbon performance.