THE UNIVERSITY of Reading has been given a London Higher Award, recognising is leadership in improving the environment and championing sustainability.
Following its cutting-edge research in climate science and the environment, the university was awarded the accolade for its outstanding contribution to sustainability leadership.
It celebrates a wide array of initiatives which have postively impacted the environment worldwide.
These include the development of the National Climate Education Action Plan in UK schools and colleges, which was integrated into the Department for Education’s sustainability and climate change strategy.
Its Climate Ambassador Scheme, which was developed alongside STEM Learning, has now reached more than 80,000 young people to provide support and guidance on sustainability.
It has also contributed significantly to discourse around climate change through its world-famous climate stripes, created by the university’s Professor Ed Hawkins.
It follows the university’s recent placement at number 1 in the People & Planet League 2023/24 for environmental and ethical performance as a result of perfect scores in food sustainability, staffing, education, and environmental auditing.
It also ranked 28th in the Times Higher Education Global Impact Rankings for 2024– the fourth highest ranked in the UK.
The London Higher awards celebrate the work of universities in a range of fields, including outreach and public engagement, healthcare partnerships, contribution to diversity and inclusion, entrepreneurial initiative, well-being support, research collaboration, and environmental impact.
The university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Robert Van de Noort, said: “We need everyone to work together to respond to the environmental crises, which is why one of Reading’s core missions is to work towards environmental sustainability.
“This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our staff, students and partners, who continue to work together to achieve our goal of being the greenest university.
“Our leadership in environmental sustainability is reflected in our world-leading research, our collaborative partnerships, and our commitment to embedding sustainability across our campus and curriculum.”
Dylan Parkes, Head of Strategic Engagement for Climate and Sustainability at the university, said: “Our work through initiatives such as Ed Hawkins’ climate stripes graphic has gained international recognition, sparking climate conversations globally and being featured at events such as COP26 and London Fashion Week.”
More information about the University of Reading’s sustainability initiatives is available via: reading.ac.uk/planet/
