Thanks for the question. There are multiple levels at which the Union can work to improve the Environmental sustainability at the University. The first of these is by enacting Union policies that directly reduce the amount of waste we produce, and our environmental impact. Beyond reducing plastics, I believe this should include trading with ethical suppliers to our restaurants and shops, and improving ethical food options. In order to be held accountable to this, I would press the Union and the University to publish details of who its trading partners are. I also think the Union should take stances on contemporary issues that have an impact on the environment, such as fracking. In order to encourage students to participate in environmentally conscious behaviours, students need to have easy access to information on how to enact those behaviours. For example, clear advice on how, what and where to recycle. To really achieve the smallest environmental impact requires the support of every student at the University, so it is crucial that the Union puts time and energy into securing that support. Of course, this goes both ways, and I would ensure the Union was always listening to student suggestions and observing the initiatives undertaken at other Unions. Finally, the University also has a responsibility to practice sustainably, and there are many ways in which they can improve. Very simply, we can push the University to make sure lights are switched off in all University buildings at night, as they often aren’t. The University currently have a 10-year development plan, in which they plan to build lots of new infrastructure. The Union should lead in putting pressure on the University to include plans to increase Solar panelling on new and refurbished buildings, as well as ensure sufficient insulation to reduce emissions from heating. Personally, I do have some experience with environmental issues. In school I was a member of our environmental student group, which helped in the installation of solar panels on school buildings, and the introduction of a biomass boiler, among other things.
This question was also asked to Aaron Page, George Fairweather, Henry Hill, Emily Harrison, Henry Oliver-EdwardsAnswered by Nik on 21/02/19 09:57