The University has passed a three-yearly recertification audit which means we have retained our environmental ISO14001 certification.
ISO14001 is the international standard for implementing and operating a successful environmental management system. We received extremely positive feedback from the auditor on our approach and the way positive sustainability measures are embedded in our operations.
The certification encourages the improvement of environmental performance through more efficient use of resources and reduction of waste. This supports the fundamentals for sustainability and reducing our environmental impact.
The audit takes into consideration all environmental issues relevant to our operations, such as air pollution, water and sewage issues, waste management, soil contamination, climate change mitigation, resource use and efficiency.
Environment and Sustainability Manager, Sarah Woodward, said the audit was carried out slightly differently this year because of the restrictions caused by COVID-19:
“Under normal circumstances, an audit would involve a document review, as well as visiting the less glamorous areas of the University, such as bin stores, service yards and chemical cupboards. However, this year, due to COVID-19, only a desk-based audit was possible and several members of staff assisted by becoming temporary film makers, taking videos of areas that the auditor was missing on campus.”
“I am delighted to say that we passed the audit with only two Opportunities for Improvements and zero Non-Conformities. The auditor recommended the University for recertification, which is very important for continuing our work towards a target of Net Zero by 2030.”
Read previous SUSSED posts on Sustainability.
