Environmental Policy

The University of Derby is responsible for the provision of higher and further education with campuses in Derby, Buxton, Leek and Chesterfield. As a responsible institution, we intend to grow and develop sustainability. We are aware that our growth has the potential to impact directly and indirectly on the environment both locally and globally.

Our Environmental Management System (EMS) operates across all tutorial sites, excluding commercial and residential sites. It ensures that the University of Derby is committed to the prevention of pollution and continual improvement in environmental performance. Objectives and targets are set to monitor our environmental performance and ensure that environmental management is central to our business. 

The following commitments align with the 8 aspects of the University’s Environmental Plan.

The University is committed to:  

• Fulfilling our environmental compliance obligations  
• Protecting the environment and preventing pollution that may arise from our activities  
• Reducing our carbon emissions to net zero carbon by 2040  
• Maintaining zero general waste to landfill and increasing on-site recycling 
• Ensuring sustainability is incorporated into construction and refurbishment projects  
• Promoting sustainable methods of travel, in particular active travel, through the University’s Travel Plan 
• Protecting wildlife on our sites and increasing biodiversity where possible through site-specific biodiversity action plans 
• Supporting the Responsible Futures Steering Group’s work on Education for Sustainable Development 
• Embedding sustainability into procurement activities 
• Maintaining our Fairtrade accreditation by continuing to support and celebrate Fairtrade 
• Collaborating with the local community to help protect our local environment 
• Raising awareness of the environmental agenda with students and staff through regular communications, activities and events  

The University is committed to reviewing the Environmental Policy on an annual basis. 

Signed

Professor Kathryn Mitchell
Vice-Chancellor

Date: 29/02/24