The University’s ‘Teaching against the grain’ course won the Green Gown Award for course content demonstrating innovation towards the environment and contributing to a more environmentally conscious campus.  The course, which ranges from energy generation to congestion charging, was described by the judges as “an exciting innovation”.

The University was also highly commended for its energy efficiency.  Bristol University’s energy consumption for cooling has been rising. To reverse this trend, the University has devised more energy-efficient methods of supplying chilled water as well as policies to control air conditioning.

Dr Tony Hoare, Senior Lecturer in the School of Geographical Sciences at the University, said: “We are delighted to have won this award. The ‘Teaching against the grain’ course demonstrates a successful example of introducing inter-disciplinary environment-focused teaching, helping to raise awareness of the environment and hopefully changing the behaviour of all our students.”

Universities and colleges have a large part to play in developing a sustainable society with over two million students and 300,000 staff across the UK. The Green Gown Awards recognise both the academic and operational natures of universities and colleges.

HEEPI (Higher Education Environmental Performance Improvement), who organise the Awards, are impressed with the improvements universities and colleges are making. Professor Peter James, Co-Director, said: “The Green Gown Awards show how commitment, energy and innovation enable universities and colleges to respond positively to environmental and social challenges.”

The Green Gown Awards will be presented at the AUDE (Association of University Directors of Estates) Annual Conference (2-4 April 2007) and at the EAUC (Environmental Association for Universities and Colleges) Annual Conference (17-19 April 2007).