A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
A Sustainable Development Policy
for Estates Management
0
Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
1.1
Sustainable Development
Estates Management and
Sustainable Development
1.1.2
Sustainable Learning Environment
1.1.1
Section 1
Introduction
Section 2
Strategic
1.2
Policy Statements
University of Strathclyde’s
Sustainable Development Policy
1.2.2
Estates Management’s Sustainable
Development Policy
1.2.1
2.1
Management Policy
2.2
Corporate Social Policy
2.3
Economic Statement
2.4
Environmental Policy
2.4.1
Environmental issues and monitoring
2.4.2
Purchasing
2.4.3
Biodiversity
2.4.4
Utilities
2.4.5
Materials
2.4.6
Construction
2.4.7
Waste
2.4.8
Landscaping
2.4.9
Transport
2.4.9.1
Travel Plan
2.4.9.2
Fleet Management
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Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
Section 1
Introduction
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Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
1.1
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
1.1.1
Estates Management and Sustainable Development
University Estates Management (UEM) recognises the triple bottom line approach to sustainable
development - environmental, social and economic. The aim of this policy is to set out a clear direction
for a positive approach to a sustainable upgrade and development of the University’s campuses. The
integration of the three elements provides a baseline to asses the operations and functions of Estates
Management.
The recent implementation of the 10 year Estates Development Framework (EDF) is assimilated with
the ambitions of the Sustainable Development Policy. The upgrade of the University requires the
careful economics of whole life costing as well as correct procurement methods. However, Estates
Management has the means to develop a positive learning environment by considering the social and
environmental factors involved. It is widely acknowledged that daylight and fresh air, amongst others,
enhance learning. The aims of sustainable design and operation not only contribute to minimising the
University’s environmental impact, but additionally aim to inspire and aid learning through a positive
internal and external environment.
This policy is a development of the aims of Estates Management to ultimately create a more
sustainable teaching and learning environment. A careful consideration of all three elements of the
triple bottom line approach give the incentive to minimise environmental impact where possible;
maximise the economic performance; and maximise social aspects of the University.
1.1.2
Sustainable Learning Environment
For the purposes of the policy, Estates Management shall regard the three aspects of sustainable
development under the term ‘Sustainable Learning Environment’. This term defines the essential
components of the University and, in turn, will define the boundaries of operation and required
threshold level of social and economic good. The ‘sustainable learning environment’ is comprised of
the following topics:
• Teaching
• Learning
• Research
• Administration
• Social
• Recreation
• Residential
Functions of operation within each topic above will be assessed in terms of a social, economic and
environmental balance.
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Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
1.2
POLICY STATEMENTS
University Estates Management has produced this policy document in accordance with the University
of Strathclyde’s Sustainable Development Policy. The structure of the Policy is intended to provide
information on the importance of this policy for Estates Management. The operational section is
intended to brief consultants on specific tasks and procedures in order that all work carried out by
them conforms to the policy requirements.
The increased number of policies and targets published by the UN, European and UK Governments
and the Scottish Executive illustrate the level of importance, commitment and activity in relation to
sustainable development. This policy has been developed in response to the increased need for
action and awareness and has been developed in tandem with the Scottish Funding Council’s vision.
1.2.1
University of Strathclyde’s Sustainable Development Policy
The University of Strathclyde is committed to the dual ethos of sustainability and responsible global
citizenship. Accordingly, the University has adopted the following Environmental Policy Statement:
“The University will encourage good environmental practice among its staff and students, and will seek
to ensure that suppliers and contractors to the University apply the same level of commitment and
concern to environmental matters when dealing with the University.
The University will endeavour to ensure that the management of its estates is in a manner which
accords with environmental good practice and legislative compliance. It will pursue a 'good neighbour'
policy in relation to its immediate surroundings, with respect to site appearance and the environmental
impacts of its plant and processes.
The University will mobilise its interdisciplinary expertise to provide a curriculum, which offers students
at Strathclyde a quality education in environmental issues at undergraduate, postgraduate and other
levels.
The University will promote focused research on environmental issues, encouraging, in particular, an
interdisciplinary and problem-solving approach and encouraging also the commercialisation of that
research.
The University will use its knowledge base to help promote Scotland's environmental well being, by
interacting positively with local communities, industry, commerce and the public sector, and with the
wider national and international communities, to address environmental issues.”
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Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
1.2.2
Estates Management’s Sustainable Development Policy
University Estates Management aims to achieve best possible practice of conscientious environmental
management. The management practice will be assessed in relation to the social and economic
welfare of the University of Strathclyde by recognising:
•
Our social responsibility:
o by providing a better quality learning environment for staff, students and visitors alike
o by providing access to all in accordance with the Estates Management Policy on Improving
Access Across the University’s Estate
o by implementing programmes of skills training and opportunities for training enhancement for
Estates Management staff
•
Our social and environmental responsibility:
o by providing naturally lit internal spaces where possible.
o by providing a heat recovered fresh air supply to internal spaces to enhance learning and
minimise health risks associated with poor indoor air quality
•
Our economic sustainable development responsibility:
o by ensuring that investment decisions are as the result of a rigorous financial appraisal,
demonstrating a case for investment that is affordable and meets the University’s business
needs.
•
Our responsibility to the environment:
o by recognising a sustainable purchase of goods and services to take account of environmental
and social issues that are applicable to purchasing decisions.
o by reducing CO2 emissions.
o by reducing our volume of waste to landfill, and increasing the level of recycling in both
construction and occupation.
o by both promoting and protecting the development and growth of Biodiversity as the University
environment evolves.
o by endeavouring to attain ‘Good’ and preferably ‘Best’ practice targets for energy consumption
o by ensuring the proper specification of materials to their specific use whilst recognising the
choice conforms to, where possible, lifecycle costing, avoiding a depletion of non renewable
natural resources, low embodied energy and being non-toxic to both internal and external
environment.
o by implementing modern low energy methods of construction whilst being less wasteful, more
efficient and reducing maintenance requirements.
o by minimising waste arising from our operations and to implement sound waste management
practices.
o by reducing the consumption of all materials and wherever practicable to actively encourage
and enforce recycling and re-use.
o by reducing CO2 emissions of our vehicle fleet by investigating the feasibility of alternative
fuels i.e. Bio Fuels, Advanced Fuel Cells, Batteries, Gas etc
o by providing a travel plan that helps reduce the impact of travel on the environment, cuts
congestion around the campuses, saves money on business travel and designs campuses
which provide an attractive accessible environment thus promoting active use such as walking
and cycling, thereby contributing to a healthier workforce.
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Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
Section 2
Strategic
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Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
2.1
MANAGEMENT POLICY
Achieving the effective implementation of the Estates Management’s Sustainable Development policy
will be a complex process that will require priorities to be defined and set and any decisions made to
be clearly recorded.
The Estates Development Framework, and associated planned and cyclical maintenance
programmes, describes the University’s ambition in terms of its sustainable learning environment and
provides a broad overview of the economic sustainability and affordability criteria that will ultimately
form the basis of decision making.
The implementation of the Estates Development Framework will look towards utilising assessment
methods that illustrate both good environmental design and good environmental practice. For
instance, on a case by case basis BREEAM will be considered and the appropriate target rating level
set, which is appropriate.
Further to this, Estates Management will adopt the principles of ISO 14001 with the aim of achieving
full accreditation in the future. Estates Management currently operate an ISO 14001-compliant
environmental management system as part of a wider University system. It is anticipated that this
system will be integrated in to the design stages within the EDF as an environmental design
management tool, in addition to the BREEAM assessment.
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Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
2.2
CORPORATE SOCIAL STATEMENT
In terms of sustainability the University’s greatest social aspect will be in the teaching and other
services it provides. These matters will be dealt with via curriculum development and not by Estates
Management.
Estates Management will ensure its corporate social responsibilities are discharged:
• by setting and monitoring of clear standards for improving the environmental impact of the
University’s Estate
• by ensuring that the design of the internal environment is of a standard and quality whereby it
enhances learning through such incentives as natural light, fresh air and temperature comfort.
• by considering the potential for wider social gain in the delivery of the EDF and the facilities
management of our premises including implementation of programmes of skills training via the
EDF development, review and provision of opportunities for training enhancement for Estates
Management staff.
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Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
2.3
ECONOMIC STATEMENT
A university is every bit as complex as a multinational company. The financial performance is just as
critical. It has to be as focused on the economics as it is on education and research. Universities are
turning a keener eye to viability, internal budgets, cash flow, research opportunities, non-student
tuition income, fundraising, managing risk and opportunity in a climate of self-help, collaboration and
partnerships, as promoted by the Government/Scottish Executive. At the same time, the cost of
delivering higher education has been rising significantly above the level of inflation and many
institutions are facing budget cuts, so there are tremendous cost pressures. A university has limited
finances but unlimited demands. The monetary investment decisions made have to be sustainable in
that they do not jeopardise the economic viability of the university and that it invests wisely taking a
long-term view. This is not easy in an environment subject to major change.
In estate terms the challenge is to ensure the accommodation and facilities support the University
strategy and business needs but also that the estate is efficient, economically sustainable, adaptable
and affordable.
There are many economic and non-economic factors that influence the University and its estate.
These may include government policy, demographics, competition, cost of technology, change in
student demand, lack of specialised staff, predicted unprecedented rises in energy costs as well as
consumption levels, cost of construction, estate-related legalisation compliance, student and staff
requirements, and the level of service demanded. These are all risks that have to be recognised and
have direct and indirect financial consequences. The risks have to be managed and economic
sustainability maintained. Each major investment decision will be considered on the basis of its whole
life (30 year) via a detailed option appraisal.
University economic “future proofing” is similar to any business organisation. Prudent financial and risk
management is required.
The business plan of an organisation is the driver of the estate needs but, particularly for universities,
there has to be a predetermined strategy to meet estate change such as expansion, contraction,
changes in nature of space required and the impact of new technology. In broad terms this has to be
achieved by considering areas where buildings’ use can change, land be developed and exit routes
determined, such as land sold or buildings leased.
It is difficult to predict the estate requirements and what, in terms of disposals, might be inconceivable
today can become a reality. As a rule universities should not assume continued occupation of building
and land so that when there is a change the University has maximised its position in terms of
opportunity and capital receipt. There has to be continual challenge made to the major investment in
properties to ensure that it is in line with the business plan and an open mind to opportunities that may
arise. Land and buildings are assets and if this approach is adopted then it allows “future proofing” in
economic terms to be integral to the estate strategy supporting the business plan of the university and
economic sustainability.
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Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
Policy targets
•
•
To ensure that the University’s estate is economically efficient and sustainable in financial terms.
To ensure that capital investment in the estate in based on a rigorous financial case for investment
which is sustainable and meets the University’s business needs.
• To ensure that the impact of whole life v capital cost, within the economic affordability envelope
defined by the EDF and Estates Management’s budget, is considered as a primary decisionmaking tool in each new building design or major refurbishment project.
• To ensure there is sufficient land to allowing the estate to expand and contract as dictated by the
University Strategy.
• To ensure decisions made about the estate do not have a negative impact on the economic
viability of the University.
• To ensure operational costs are kept to a minimum but meet the service level agreements for the
buildings.
• To ensure project costs are kept within budget.
• To ensure that estate provision is flexible to react to changing business needs of the University
and the value of the land and properties is monitored and maintained.
The University will review its estate annually to ensure that it is economically sustainable and adjust its
plans accordingly
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Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
2.4
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
2.4.1
Environmental Issues and Monitoring
Estates Management’s policy objectives for Purchasing & Procurement, Biodiversity, Energy & Water,
Materials and Construction, Waste, Landscaping and Transport are defined in the relevant sections of
this document. The combined impact of these statements will be consolidated to describe, on the
basis of the EDF, clearly defined objectives and targets for sustainable development. These objectives
and targets will be agreed by the University’s Sustainability Group and used to establish the basis of
implementation of sustainable development.
For instance in the delivery of major projects the following will apply:
• Consultants’ selection will depend on their ability to advise on sustainable issues and their
implementation.
• Option Appraisal will be on a whole life quantitative basis (financial 30 year NA) and qualitative
criteria, one of which will be the achievement of Estates Management’s sustainable development
objectives.
• Project Briefs and scopes will consider sustainable development and define the specific issues
and implications for each project.
• The designs produced by Consultants will be reviewed in accordance with the Sustainable
Development Policy.
• Costs will be considered on a whole life versus capital cost basis.
• A decision-making matrix checklist describing the evaluation process will be used.
• The impact on sustainable objectives will be reviewed at three stages through out the project:
o at the completion of the feasibility of the project
o at the completion of the detailed design of the project
o at the completion of the project
ƒ Project briefs will be required to be developed in line with maintenance policy objectives where
maintenance aspects should be considered with respect to each individual building design and
type.
ƒ A clear consideration is to be given to whole life costing in relation to maintenance issues
throughout the operation of Estates Management.
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Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
2.4.2
Purchasing
The vision and the strategic objectives within the new Purchasing Strategy of University Purchasing
Services mirror those of National (Proc-HE) and Regional (Proc-SNI) purchasing organisations and
initiatives:
“working together to develop and promote efficient and effective procurement practices and
procedures within this institution and throughout higher education taking into account social, ethical
and environmental issues”
Policy targets
Sustainable procurement is an integral part of Strategic Objective No. 1 - “Promote the delivery of
value for money through good procurement practice”. This includes an Environmental Purchasing
Policy containing the following key aspects and elements:
•
•
•
The University recognises that the purchase of goods and services may have an effect upon the
environment and will seek to take account of those environmental, sustainable and social issues
applicable to purchasing decisions.
The University will, where applicable and practicable, include as part of the procedure, contract
specification or criteria for any purchase:
o Requirement to meet ISO 14001
o Use of EC energy labelling scheme or any other recognised equivalent.
o Use of recognised “eco labelling” of building products such as “the Green Guide to
Specification” and “Green Pro”
o Use of a whole life costing matrix to take account of long-term environmental and economic
factors.
o Request for environmentally friendly alternatives to be offered.
o Require identification of product areas which may have environmental and social hazards and
the procedures in place to deal with such hazards
o Require proof from suppliers that policies and procedures are in place to meet all statutory
and regulatory requirements so that environmental and social responsibilities are met
The University will actively encourage the purchase of products, which meet the foregoing
environmental and social criteria and will further contribute by: o Recognising that the public sector can influence and improve the environment through its
activities with all stakeholders.
o Ensuring that suppliers are made aware of the University’s Environmental Purchasing Policy.
o Encouraging, informing and assisting suppliers with continuous development of environmental
and social policies.
o Ensuring that quality is seen not only as fitness for purpose but also shows socio-economic
and environmental benefits.
o Encouraging all University buyers to take account of:
−
the social and environmental impact of their purchases
−
energy consumption and target setting for reduction
−
the ability of a product to be re-used or recycled
−
the biodegradability of a product
−
the relevance of working conditions and fair pay to meet socio-economic standards.
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Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
Implementation
Development and implementation of policy factors and elements will be delivered under the Action
Plan of the new institutional/Proc-SNI/Proc-HE Purchasing Strategy.
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Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
2.4.3
Biodiversity
Biodiversity Conservation Landscape areas play a major role within the University structure by
enhancing the external environment. This is demonstrated throughout all the University sites with the
interacting of plants, birds, mammals and insects within the Campus sites. The development and
growth of Biodiversity is continual as the University environment changes.
The University accepts its responsibility to minimise the detrimental impact, which may be caused by
its own services and operations within the external landscape of the campus. Continuous programmes
of improvements and monitoring within these areas will deliver this.
The University will seek to enhance employee awareness of environmental issues and policies
through staff training programmes; build environmental responsibilities into all service areas; and
encourage and support employee initiatives in environmental improvement.
Policy targets
•
•
•
•
•
To promote designs and measures which will improve, encourage and protect University
Biodiversity areas.
To seek funding and resources to maintain and improve the existing Biodiversity areas for
beneficial use.
To protect the University Biodiversity areas by practising good conservation management.
To promote the use of recycled and organic materials within these areas
To minimise the use of artificial fertilisers, pesticides and insecticides
Implementation
•
•
•
•
•
By educating Estates Management staff on the topics and issues of biodiversity.
By carefully considering the University’s landscaping strategy and green-field development.
By implementing landscaping on the occasion of green-field development, whilst considering local
species of plant and wildlife.
Through greater monitoring and controlling of harmful waste and chemical spillages into land and
thus natural water system.
By giving due consideration to Biodiversity conservation when any land remodelling/ development
is proposed
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Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
2.4.4
Utilities
Estates Management is responsible for the purchasing, contracting, supply, invoicing, monitoring,
control, and reporting on all utilities. These utilities are Electricity, Natural Gas, Water, and Fuel Oil.
The University currently consumes 60,000MWh of natural gas, 40,000MWh of electricity, and
300,000m3 of water per annum. Fuel oil is not generally consumed but retained as a stand-by fuel
source for two central boiler houses. In terms of environmental pollution, the utility consumption levels
equate to the total emission of 28,500tCO2pa.
Estates Management is also responsible for the provision of space heating and cooling, process
steam, process water, and ventilation.
The demands and requirements from Academic &
Administration Departments are required to be met to ensure that the ‘business’ can operate
successfully.
Policy Targets
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
To ensure that internal environments are kept to appropriate conditions determined from CIBSE,
BREEAM and Carbon Trust Good Practice Guides. The environments of the buildings will mainly
be controlled through a Building Energy Management System.
To ensure that the utility consumption is used as effectively and efficiently as possible
To attain ‘Good’, and preferably ‘Best’, practice targets for energy consumption
To minimise waste
To recognise sources of carbon and implement changes to reduce carbon emissions
To operate Procedures that assist and reflect this Policy
To ensure that all new/refurbishment projects reflect this Policy
To demonstrate that when reduction cannot be achieved that consumption is at maximum
efficiency
To monitor & report on consumption, and target reductions in appropriate systems and areas
To operate & maintain the plant & equipment in a responsible and responsive manner
To invest in automatic controls, link these to central control, and utilise the technology to assist
those tasked with operational duties, where this represents best environmental option.
Legislative Requirements
The following legislation is to be adhered to:
• HASAWA, etc, 1974
• Building Regulations
• EU Energy Trading Scheme – Greenhouse Gas Permit
• EU Energy Performance in Buildings Directive
Future Targets
These targets will be set from ‘Best’ or ‘Good’ Practice, with ‘Good’ being the minimum standard,
current to date of change. Published information from various sources will be used as the basis for the
targets, and thereby the initiatives for improvements.
Initiatives for Improvements
It is implicit that the opportunities for improvements will lead to increased user satisfaction, reduced
and/or more efficient utility consumption, reduced carbon emissions, and reduced utility costs.
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Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
2.4.5
Materials
Material selection is a fundamental decision in any design process whether it is a small refurbishment
or major new build project. Commonly, the selection of the right materials will aim to enhance the
appearance, improve the environmental performance and be durable to the ‘wear and tear’ of daily
use.
The Materials policy will aim to steer the client or consultant, in the direction of a more sustainable
choice of product, in coherence with current legislation. The selection of materials within the
‘sustainable learning environment’ will not only consider construction materials but additionally,
operational materials such as office supplies, cleaning products, etc.
The targets set in the materials section are intended to put the onus on the consultant in the event of
specifying construction materials. The important factor is to consider each choice of specification
within the defined term ‘sustainable learning environment’. The final decision will be decided following
consultation with Estates Management.
Policy Targets
•
•
•
•
•
•
To consider materials in terms of appearance, performance, low maintenance and durability
To consider the embodied energy of all materials and cut back on high energy processed
materials, where possible.
To consider local sourcing of materials to cut down transport energy and encourage growth in
local economy, where such materials are benign on health and local environment.
To consider depletion of natural resources by avoiding virgin product materials where depletion of
natural resources is not sustainable. Furthermore, to consider reuse/recycled materials sourcing.
To consider materials in a ‘Cradle to Cradle’ mentality in order to address packaging waste,
potential for recycling/reuse or biodegradability.
To consider the internal environment of a building where moisture control and avoidance of toxic
off-gassing, fibre release and mould growth are priorities.
Implementation
The implementation of the above targets will be initially demonstrated in the defined major projects of
the Estates Development Framework. To achieve targets, the duty is on the design team to specify
materials that will conform to the targets, as much as financially possible, in relation to environmental,
maintenance and social aspects.
Implementation Objectives
•
•
Consultant design teams will be required to provide specification list with evidence, which
conforms to the policy targets.
Final specification will be decided in consultation with Estates Management.
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Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
2.4.6
Construction
Sustainable construction deals with many issues from energy to waste. Estates Management is
directly involved with a construction project from feasibility to project handover. The objective of
sustainable construction lies within the responsibilities of the design team, the contractor and Estates.
The build quality should give consideration to the level of finish when compared with maintenance
issues. The objective of a quality construction finish should consider both the materials used and the
maintenance aspects where low maintenance and a long life cycle are imperative.
Where applicable and practicable, the construction of the building must also consider its impact on
resources, both natural and utilitarian. In addition consideration must be given to minimisation of
onsite pollution; adequate protection of surrounding biodiversity areas; increased awareness and
response to health and safety issues, as well as proper consideration of the local community, including
staff, students, members of the public and residents.
In order to achieve this, Estates Management will look towards recognised validation of professionals
such as “The Considerate Contractors Scheme”. In addition to this, Estates Management will require
evidence of skills that ensure delivery of its aspirations.
Policy Targets
•
•
•
•
•
•
To consider methods of construction that will minimise onsite energy consumption
To consider the method of construction and look to prefabrication / modularisation where possible
To consider build-ability in relation to the site specification and environment, where this is
consistent with reduction in adverse impacts.
To consider appointment of contractor and, where possible, to consider contractors who employ a
multi-skilled workforce and have a dedicated supply chain that demonstrates sustainability
principles in its selection process.
To consider contractors who are experienced in construction with relevant materials.
To coordinate and audit trail sustainable checklist for each stage of design process from feasibility
to completion
Implementation
The implementation of such a policy is to be piloted on initial major project and will follow suit on all
other major projects within the Estates Development Framework. The policy may run in tandem on
minor projects through completion of a successful minor pilot project.
Implementation Objectives
The objectives of the construction policy are to demonstrate, via a clearly auditable process for the
delivery of projects undertaken by the University, that sustainability is embedded in their delivery and
that the rational behind decisions that impact on sustainability are clearly identified, and their impact
acknowledged, considered and auditable in the future.
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Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
2.4.7
Waste
The University will aim to minimise waste arising from its operations and to implement sound waste
management practices. It will also aim to reduce the consumption of all materials and, wherever
practicable, to actively encourage and enforce recycling and re-use.
The University of Strathclyde will also develop the existing Environmental Policy by minimising the
production of waste through good purchasing practice, reuse and economic recycling.
Further to this, the University will seek to enhance employee awareness of environmental issues and
policies through staff training programmes; build environmental responsibility into all service areas;
and encourage and support employee initiatives in environmental improvement.
Policy targets
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
To promote measures to discourage waste; to recover, reuse and recycle waste material; and to
ensure that the remainder is disposed of responsibly.
To cultivate a work ethic with a high level of awareness of waste minimisation and recycling within
the University community.
To promote economy in the use of paper and the selection of print formats and document styles in
harmony with this.
To encourage the purchase of recycled materials and those which are suitable for disposal by
recycling.
To favour suppliers who remove packaging as part of their supply contract and obligations and
who operate according to sound environmental principles.
To minimise waste by encouraging the sharing, exchange and reuse of equipment and materials
amongst departments.
To develop a waste management strategy which accommodates recycling procedures and
initiatives.
To develop a range of Institution-wide recycling schemes, for example paper waste and the
recycling of IT equipment.
To encourage departments to establish local recycling schemes, which are relevant to their
individual activities.
To develop a waste management strategy that embraces Green Waste Issues.
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Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
2.4.8
Landscaping
Appealing landscapes play an important role by enhancing the external environment. This has been
demonstrated within the University in the Rottenrow Gardens.
The University accepts its responsibility to minimise the detrimental impact of its own services and
operations on the environment within the Grounds and Gardens section. This will be delivered through
a programme of continuous improvement within the area of sustainable development.
The University will promote the implementation of resource-efficient landscaping practices which will
help produce significant economic and environmental benefits. It is anticipated that savings such as
reduced labour, reduced water, elimination of non-organic fertiliser costs, and the effective reduction in
haulage and disposal costs, will be achieved.
Through the implementation of practices such as grass recycling, composting and mulching, valuable
organic material will be returned to the soil and will help achieve a sustainable Landscape.
The University will also seek to enhance employee awareness of environmental issues and policies
through staff training programmes; build environmental responsibility into all service areas; and
encourage and support employee initiatives in environmental improvement.
Policy targets
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
To promote good designs and measures to protect and enhance the quality of landscaped areas
and to improve the visual appearance and image of the University Estate.
To protect the University’s Landscape and local distinctiveness by conserving and maintaining the
external landscape and areas of valuable character.
To seek resources and funding to restore and improve the existing landscape areas for beneficial
use.
To promote sustainable Landscaping by enriching and protecting landscapes and open spaces
and develop environmentally sustainable methods of land management which maximise
opportunities.
To promote the ‘greening’ of the urban environment with appropriate landscaping and tree
planting.
To encourage the use of resource-efficient landscaping practices within the Estate.
To minimise the use of artificial fertilisers, chemical weed killers and insecticides level, and reuse
organic waste materials
To replace existing trees with new local species when felled.
To give due consideration to wildlife habitat conservation when any land remodelling or
redevelopment is proposed.
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Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
2.4.9
Transport Policy
2.4.9.1 Travel Plan
The University will develop and implement a travel plan tailored to its needs which promotes
sustainable travel choices and reduces reliance on cars.
The aim of the Plan will be to assist in the reduction of the impact of travel on the environment; cut
congestion around the campuses; save money on business travel; and ensure the design of
campuses which provide an attractive accessible environment thereby promoting walking and cycling
which will, in turn, contribute to a healthier workforce.
A set of mechanisms, initiatives and targets will be developed. This will be a dynamic process that will
grow and develop with time and in accordance with the changing circumstances of the University and
the environment in which it works.
Policy Targets
•
•
•
•
•
•
To provide a holistic approach to travel/transport requirements to support the John Anderson and
Jordanhill Campus Development Plans
To help resolve parking issues, accessibility and pedestrian flow.
To promote increased activity levels within the campus, particularly walking and cycling.
To develop a safe and attractive campus environment
To strengthen transport links and influence City transport policy.
To influence travel choices for students, staff and visitors.
Three key roles of the University
Implications
Environmental
Social
Economic
As a business
As a place of learning &
research
As a member of a
community
Cycle paths and footpaths
Green fuels
Open space on campus
E-learning
Research opportunities (e.g.
climate change, alternative
fuels, security, behavioural
change, infrastructure)
Urban regeneration
Local Transport Plan
Safe routes to University
Late night student safety
Healthy lifestyles
Widening participation
Timetabling
Skills for sustainable transport
Urban regeneration
Local Transport Plans
Deliveries and fleet
management
Car parking strategies
Estate management
Student recruitment
Expansion and mergers
Risk management
Local strategic partnerships
International students’ air
travel
20
Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde
A Sustainable Development Policy for Estates Management
2.4.9.2 Fleet Management
Estates Management currently owns a fleet of vehicles which are used for maintenance and
movement of equipment and staff both throughout the campus and between campuses. The
department has recently completed a vehicle replacement strategy, with phased replacement of
existing stock commencing in 2005. This phased replacement will be continually reviewed in relation
to the targets and implementation of this policy.
Policy Targets
•
•
•
•
To utilise sensibly Estates Management’s vehicle fleet
To reduce demand of vehicle fleet.
To investigate the feasibility of alternative fuels, e.g. Bio Fuels, Advance Cells, Batteries, Gas etc.
Reduce CO2 emissions of vehicle fleet
Implementation
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•
•
•
•
By collating data on current CO2 emissions (2005) and setting achievable targets for reduction, as
well as influencing the strategic vehicle replacement programme.
By subsequent registration with the Energy Savings Trust Transport Energy.
By trial of a battery powered electric vehicle demonstrator with an intention to further utilise in the
future
By an annual review of resource usage with continuous examination of fleet
capacity/sizes/carrying capacities to ensure vehicles are utilised sensibly.
By building up a database of types/purposes of each journey to obtain accurate life cycle costs,
and in turn, reducing fleet demand and optimising fleet usage
17
Sustainable Development Policy
Department of Estates Management
University of Strathclyde