Downing College has scored top marks, in joint first place with Jesus College, in the annual Cambridge University Environmental Consulting Society (CUECS) League Table.
The Table is a ranking of the Cambridge Colleges, conducted annually and measured across four categories: management,
energy, water and recycling.
Dick Taplin, Junior Bursar at Downing said: “We are delighted to have regained the top slot in the CUECS League Table and with the comments made in the report. It said: ‘Downing is particularly strong in the management section, having made significant improvements over the last three years of reporting.’ This achievement has been built up over a number of years and reflects commitment at all levels – senior management support, staff enthusiasm and student involvement.
“Energy reduction owes much to the College’s 11/11 Policy - to save 11% in gas and electricity consumption over a two year period - which we have exceeded this year with savings of 14.4% for gas and 11.4% for electricity. Together with rainwater harvesting, solar water heating and the Ground Source Heat Pump in our Howard Theatre, two arrays of solar panels were installed on the historical buildings in early 2012 delivering further savings. Annual energy savings are currently running at £45,000 representing 10% of the total bill.
“Last but not least, we have cut our carbon footprint by over 10% and as the first Oxbridge holder of Carbon Trust Accreditation, we have demonstrated that we are an organisation committed to achieving change”.
Downing College has a comprehensive Environmental Policy which includes initiatives to reduce the carbon footprint, promote recycling, encourage a Green Travel Policy, monitor consumption of energy and water and use sustainable materials for building and refurbishment.
________________________________