Overview

Durham University is committed to reducing its environmental impact, and improving the local environment. Recently the University has adopted an Environmental Strategic Plan developed by the Environmental Sustainability Advisory Group.

The University's progress on environmental sustainability was recognised in March 2009, when it won the Environmental Business category at the Evening Chronicle North East Environmental Awards.

The University has a long-standing commitment to Sustainable Procurement which was recognised in February 2007, when the Fairtrade Foundation accredited Durham as a Fairtrade University.

 The University has recently submitted a Green travel plan to enable staff and students to maximise sustainable forms of transport.

University Environment Week - 16th-22nd November 2009:

The University is having its first 'Environment Week' this year. Starting on Monday 16th November, the week will be filled with activities and messages relating to living and working in a more sustainable way.  Activities in the week include lunchtime talks by the Energy Saving Trust, recycling displays, alternative travel to work days, guided walks, guided cycle rides, bike maintenance sessions, litter picks and evening talks. All activities are free of charge. This week should be a fun, informative week for all and we hope to see many staff and students taking part.

Implementing change 

University Policy for Environmental Sustainability is overseen by the Environmental Sustainability Advisory Group (ESAG). This works in association with two further groups: The Fairtrade Steering Group which is responsible for developing and implementing our Fairtrade Policy, and the Student Environment Forum which includes the Sustainable Living Action Group, and brings together student Environment Representatives from the Colleges; DSU Officers; and University employees in debate and awareness raising.

ESAG- Who's who?

Chair
Professor Tim Burt (Dean of Environmental Sustainability, Master of Hatfield College) 

Environmental Sustainability

Tara Duncan (University Environment Co-ordinator)

Stuart Morris (Sustainable Living Programme Co-ordinator)

Treasurer's Department
Paulina Lubacz (Treasurer)

Laura Watson (Deputy Director of Procurement)

Estates and Buildings Department 
Peter Robinson (Director)
Dave McCaffery (Engineering Services Manager)
John Lightowler (Energy Manager)
George Dent (Environment Manager)

Steve Ansdell (Horticultural Manager)

Health and Safety Office

Alan Watson (University Health and Safety Advisor)

I.T. Service

Michael Coxon (Senior IT Consultant) 

Bursars
Michelle Crawford (Sustainability Rep. for Bursars)

Queen's Campus
David Fionda (Operations Director)

University Catering

Martyn Thompson (Executive Chef)

Departmental Representatives
Dr. Karen Bickerstaff (Geography: Lecturer)

Dr. Phil Gates (School of Biological and Biomedical Sciences: Senior Lecturer)

Professor Graham Sandford (Chemistry)
Dr. Robert Song (Theology: Senior Lecturer)

Professor Fred Worrall (Earth Sciences: Reader)

Durham Bicycle Users' Group

Sarah Maskill (Library Assistant)

Durham Student Union
Kristina Hagen (Environment and Ethics Officer)

Ben Robertson (Societies and Student Development Officer)

Deputy Warden's Office

Anne Sayers (Executive Secretary)