EAST MIDLANDS College opts for renewable energy
Two of the newest buildings at North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College (NWSLC) are now powered by biomass boilers in a move that will reduce their carbon footprint. The clean energy system has been installed at
the Hinckley and Wigston campuses and follows the launch of a plan by the college to address its environmental impact. The biomass fuel is created from wood chips,
plant materials and other organic matter. This type of fuel removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as it grows and stores it in soil, plants and trees.
‘A rigorous plan that will transform the way we operate at all our campuses’
Biomass currently represents about 11% of all renewable energy in the UK and saves emissions equivalent to taking 1.3 million cars off the road. Marion Plant OBE, principal and chief executive
of NWSLC, said: “We all have a responsibility to help the UK meet its target to bring greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050. “The college has risen to the challenge, and
has put in place a robust sustainability policy and a rigorous plan that will transform the way we operate at all our campuses. “We welcome the move to using biomass fuels
to power our Wigston and Hinckley campuses as part of our efforts to reduce the college’s carbon footprint.
“The activities set out in our development
plan will help to make a significant contribution to our own green agenda while also simultaneously contributing to wider UK and global goals, and to educate our students.” About 12,000 students are enrolled at NWSLC
across six campuses. The Wigston Campus opened in 2010 and its creative arts Hinckley Campus was launched the following year. Both buildings were constructed to maximise
energy efficiency and their design also makes use of natural daylight, creating an engaging and spacious learning environment. The use of biomass fuels, which will reduce the college’s consumption of gas, is part of a
wider sustainable development action plan. This will include opportunities for students to
develop their environmental credentials by taking part in a student green council and working with local community organisations on environmental volunteering opportunities. Other ongoing sustainability measures at the
college include reducing single-use plastic consumption and a target for zero waste sent to landfill. Further planned improvements include LED and sensor-controlled lighting, a more efficient building management system and more recycling bins, while the college has also committed to replacing its vehicles with electric or hybrid alternatives as leases expire.
SUSTAINABLE
business network May 2021
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