Blog
Green Week: It's up to us...
Taken from yorkgreenweek.blogspot.com
The construction of a biomass boiler means that the University will exceed its 10% target for emissions reductions during 2010, according to University Sustainability Champion Alistair Fitter. A groundbreaking study will measure the complete carbon footprint of the University, a first for a UK institution.
But Alistair points out that the long term battle involves a much greater challenge. If we are to make real progress on emissions reductions over the longer term, it must involve every member of the University community. People's behaviour needs to change; people need to consider the environment in their everyday lives... and that's difficult.
The University's plans are undoubtedly impressive. The planned carbon footprint study is of national significance- it's something that can be replicated across the country. A management-lead commitment to action on climate change is of course crucial, but it can only go so far. The decisions made by the individuals who make up this university will have a wider impact.
It's up to us. An awareness of climate change needs to be part of our everyday lives. Individual students need to consider the environment when planning trips, staff in academic departments need to consider environmental sustainability when buying equipment, for example. And perhaps, maybe, our esteemed YUSU Democracy and Services Officer might consider an alternative to patio heaters in the student union bar...?
We don't all need to become environmental activists and live in trees... but we're all people who make choices. And climate change demands our consideration.
