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Sustainability Strategy

2010 - 2020

CONSULTATION DRAFT
As at 18 April 2010

Submitted by
Aaron Magner
Director, UNSW Sustainability
CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION..................................................................................................

2. PURPOSE AND SCOPE........................................................................................


2.1 Purpose.......................................................................................................
2.2 Scope..........................................................................................................
2.3 Review........................................................................................................
2.4 Sustainability - What does it mean?............................................................

3. IMPERATIVES FOR ACTION ON SUSTAINABILITY.................................................


3.1 Leading by example....................................................................................
3.2 Compliance with legislative requirements..................................................
3.3 Economic Savings.......................................................................................
3.4 Corporate Social Responsibility...................................................................
3.5 Marketing....................................................................................................

4. SUSTAINABILITY VISION AND GOALS.................................................................


4.1 Vision for Sustainability...............................................................................
4.2 Goals...........................................................................................................

5. SUSTAINABILITY GOVERNANCE.........................................................................
5.1 Sustainability Working Group......................................................................
5.2 Action Groups..............................................................................................

6. OBJECTIVES AND TARGETS................................................................................


6.1 Energy and Emissions.................................................................................
6.2 Water..........................................................................................................
6.3 Waste..........................................................................................................
6.4 Procurement...............................................................................................
6.5 Transport.....................................................................................................
6.6 Planning and Development.........................................................................
6.7 Research.....................................................................................................
6.8 Learning and Teaching................................................................................
6.9 Governance.................................................................................................
6.10 Biodiversity................................................................................................

7. SUSTAINABLE POLICY........................................................................................

8. SUSTAINABILITY COMMUNICATIONS PLAN.........................................................

9. REPORTING ON UNSW’S SUSTAINABILITY PERFORMANCE.................................

ANNEXURE
ANNEXURE A – DECLARATIONS AND CHARTERS......................................................
ANNEXURE B - SUSTAINABILITY POLICY.............................................................. 30
1. INTRODUCTION

No longer can society ignore its responsibilities to sustain current and future
generations, nor can organisations pretend they have no part to play in the
environmental and social well being of the planet. Amid depleting resources,
global warming and environmental degradation, the need for change towards
sustainability has become more apparent and important than ever.

UNSW academics are researching the causes and impacts of climate change. Our
engineers are international leaders in the development of renewable energy
technologies. Our economists and social scientists have devised policy responses
to slow and combat the effects of diminishing resources. Our students and the
UNSW community want and expect our campuses to be models of sustainability
through everything that we do, from our buildings, to the way we undertake
research and facilitate learning as part of an engaging, stimulating campus
community.

For UNSW to be a leading research intensive university in the Asia-Pacific region,


with a focus on contemporary and social issues and to be, a peer in good
standing with the best globally, we must aspire to be a leader in sustainability.
Sustainability is a guiding principle in UNSW’s Strategic Intent, B2B Blueprint to
Beyond. UNSW is also a signatory to a number of international declarations,
including Talloires Declaration and the Universitas 21 Statement on
Sustainability. This Sustainability Strategy represents UNSW’s commitment to
those principles and declarations to improve our sustainability performance
across all areas of the University.

The Strategy is also a call to the University community to transform our


organisational patterns to embody the principles of sustainability into everything
that we do – from the way we construct our buildings, dispose of our waste, what
we purchase, utilise our existing resources and how we measure our
performance. It sets out our sustainability goals in the key operational areas, the
approach we will take to achieve them, and how we will record and communicate
our progress for the next five to ten years. The Strategy’s ultimate goal is to
make the University environmentally sound, socially responsible and
economically viable in all our activities.

2. PURPOSE AND SCOPE

3. Purpose
This Strategy explains what the University plans to do on a day-to-day basis to
incorporate the principles of sustainability into the operational plans of the
University. It states our vision and sets out our goals, indicators and performance
targets to measure our progress in addressing sustainability across all the core
aspects of the University.

4. Scope
The Strategy concentrates on embedding the commitment to sustainability into
the University’s governance and formal structures, establishing systems to
evaluate and report on performance and increasing participation and ownership
of the change towards sustainability amongst the community. This Sustainability
Strategy focuses the University on its long-term goals while ensuring we remain
accountable. This Strategy covers the period from April 2010 to 2020.

UNSW Sustainability Strategy 2010 to 2020 3


5. Review
This Strategy will be reviewed on an annual basis in consultation with staff,
students and key stakeholders. This process will ensure our vision, goals and
plans remain valid in the context of an ever-changing environment. A Strategy
review will follow the release of the Annual Sustainability Report.
6. Sustainability - What does it mean?
Sustainability has come to mean a lot of things to a lot of people. UNSW accepts
the most often quoted definition of sustainability – living successfully in the
present without compromising our ability to do so in the future. UNSW also
understands that sustainability is closely intertwined with issues such as climate
change, planning and development, resource use, diversity and biodiversity,
internationalisation, ethical practice, equality and health.

For the purpose of this strategy, UNSW’s approach to sustainability recognises


the need to work toward a balance between environmental protection, social
justice, economic well-being and cultural diversity. Our understanding of these
equal dimensions of sustainability is as follows:

Environmental protection: To the best of our abilities, negating the impact of


our activities on the environment to protect or enhance the local and global
ecosystem. We will work to understand the environmental aspects and impacts
of our activities and where appropriate change the way that we operate.

Social justice: Understanding that our actions affect all members of society and
behaving in a way that demonstrates our belief that all people matter. Provide
the opportunity for equal employment, decent living and working conditions,
support the community in poverty eradication, promotion of full employment and
decent work, gender equity and access to social well-being and justice for all.

Economic well-being: Maintaining and improving our economic viability to the


benefit of staff, students and the community but not at the expense of other
principles. Economic well-being is a crucial element of human well-being not
least because most aspects of well-being in modern society have to be
purchased, including food, water, shelter, health care and comfort.

Cultural diversity: UNSW values and protects our cultural diversity. This
includes cultural diversity reflected in gender, age, language, ethnicity, cultural
background, sexual orientation, and religious beliefs. Cultural diversity also
refers to the other ways in which people are different, such as educational level,
life experience, work experience, physical disability, socio-economic background,
personality and marital status. It involves recognising and appreciating the value
of individual differences.

UNSW Sustainability Strategy 2010 to 2020 5


7. IMPERATIVES FOR ACTION ON SUSTAINABILITY

Universities are expected to practice what they preach and to be


environmentally responsible and socially conscious. Apart from its ethical
imperatives, sustainability has numerous other benefits such as financial
savings, enhanced public image, improved student recruitment and staff
engagement. Some of the key imperatives for a focussed commitment towards
sustainability at UNSW include:

8. Leading by example
UNSW is a key institution in disseminating knowledge and facilitating research
and learning. Our leadership and expertise across a range of sustainability
related disciplines put UNSW in an excellent position to demonstrate through
operational examples of best practice, as well as educational activities and
research direction how a community can work and live sustainably. We cannot
teach students one thing in the classroom concerning environmental and social
matters, while the administrators practice something else on campus. This
Sustainability Strategy aims to make the operations of UNSW a model of
sustainability best practice. The University can be a catalyst of change,
encouraging students and staff to take ownership of our environment and the
community in which we learn and live.

9. Compliance with legislative requirements


Sustainability principles are increasingly being recognised and mandated in
Government policy and legislation both domestically and internationally. This
strategy forms a key part of UNSW’s environmental management framework. By
measuring, reporting and actively monitoring our sustainability performance the
University will be facilitating compliance with Federal and State Government
sustainability related legislative requirements

10.Economic Savings
While the cost of operating a large research intensive university in Australia is
substantial, this can be noticeably reduced while simultaneously decreasing the
cost to our environment. Environmental sustainability projects at universities can
and have saved thousands of dollars in operating expenses. The Sustainability
Office will demonstrate that economic savings can be accomplished at UNSW
while working toward our sustainability goals.

11.Corporate Social Responsibility


Corporations, universities and other organisations cannot function without
consideration for the social and environmental impacts on the community as a
result of their operations. UNSW is a large complex institution with substantial
water, energy and resource consumption demands and an important role in
social leadership. Climate change and diminishing natural resources make it an
essential corporate responsibility that we ensure all activities on our campuses
are sustainability and are conducted responsibly.

12.Marketing
Questions of sustainability are not confined to students interested in
environmental management, environmental engineering and social sciences, but
are of concern to a broader student and staff community. Practicing
sustainability on campus and incorporating it into learning and teaching
enhances UNSW’s positive, progressive image, offering students an attractive
point of difference. This will attract more local and international students. Making
sustainability a priority is also a significant driver in the attraction and retention
of the best higher degree research students, academics and professional staff.

UNSW Sustainability Strategy 2010 to 2020 7


13.SUSTAINABILITY VISION AND GOALS

14.Vision for Sustainability


Having a vision and defining the University’s goals are important steps in
defining our journey towards sustainability. Our vision is a declaration to the
community about what UNSW wants to be. UNSW’s sustainability vision has been
developed in consultation and with the active participation of staff and students.
It is an accumulation of themes and ideas deemed important by the UNSW
community. UNSW vision for sustainability is: to be environmentally sound,
socially responsible, economically viable and respectful of cultural
diversity in all our activities.

This means:

 As a research intensive university we function as a sustainable


community, embodying responsible consumption of energy, water, food,
products and transport;
 We actively support sustainability in our local community and region;
 UNSW students leave the University prepared to contribute as global
citizens to an environmentally healthy and equitable society;
 UNSW has a reputation for being the place to learn, to work and to
connect with the local and global community; and
 We actively seek to meet the changing social, environmental, economic
and cultural conditions as part of the global effort to reduce humanities
impact on the environment.

15.Goals
To achieve UNSW’s vision for sustainability we must define our goals and
objectives. Sustainability goals are interconnected and therefore can’t be
considered in isolation. For example, using resources efficiently benefits
environmental objectives, while also assisting in achieving economical viability.
The following are UNSW’s key sustainability goals and objectives:

Summary of key Sustainability Goals


1. Make UNSW a model sustainable community
2. Maintain economic viability and sustainability
3. Enhance and protect the environment
4. Reduce waste and pollutant emissions
5. Use resources efficiently
6. Maximise the utilisation of existing and future infrastructure
7. Embed sustainability into the University policies, procedures and governance.
8. Increase understanding and awareness of sustainability throughout the
University
9. Increase staff, student and community communications and participation
10.Foster a vibrant and inclusive campus community.

Objectives

16.Make UNSW a model Sustainable Community


 Create a campus in which students and staff are proud of their
environment
 Meet ethical and environmental standards of practice
 Receive Fair Trade certification for the University
 Assist in defining sustainability in terms of graduate capabilities and
curriculum development to embed sustainability across course offerings
 Provide staff and students opportunities to participate in sustainability
forums and initiatives
 Promote socially and environmentally responsible behaviour to the
University community
 Involve staff & students in the development & implementation of
sustainability plans & processes

17.Economic viability and sustainability


 Ensure investment seeks to maintain ethical and environmental standards
 Keep tuition fees fair and equitable
 Maintain secure, diverse and sustainable funding sources

18.Enhance and protect the environment


 Ensure all decisions, and in particular developments, minimise
environmental impacts
 Ensure hazardous materials are used only when absolutely necessary
 Connect learning with practical experience in assisting to maintain and
improve the environment and sustainability on campus.
 Ensure the community understands the value of a healthy ecosystem

19.Reduce waste and pollutant emissions


 Reduce waste to landfill and improve waste processes
 Reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions
 Improve storm water quality
 Reduce reliance on single passenger vehicle transportation
 Inverstigate the opportunities for generation of electricity on campus via
more energy and carbon efficient means
 Source and apply for funding for various initiatives particularly relating to
energy and water efficiency, as well as improving biodiversity on campus.
 Divert waste from landfill and increase recycling

20.Use resources efficiently


 Decrease per capita potable water consumption
 Increase energy efficiency and supply from renewable resources
 Identify and implement initiatives to increase water and energy efficiency
 Ensure procurement, tendering and subcontracting processes reflect our
sustainability goals
 Review existing processes to see where efficiencies can be made through
utilisation of online technologies.

21.Maximise the utilisation of existing and future infrastructure


 Use space efficiently through regular workspace audits to maximise
building efficiency and control infrastructure costs
 Make best use of available infrastructure & ensure it is used to maximum
capability & efficiency
 Build to ensure energy and water efficiency
 Incorporate sustainability design standards for refurbishments and
developments

22.Embed sustainability into the University policies, procedures and


governance
 All relevant policies and procedures will incorporate sustainability

UNSW Sustainability Strategy 2010 to 2020 9


 University Committees will address sustainability issues
 Sustainability will be incorporated into key performance indicators
 Find appropriate ways to embed sustainability into the framework of the
University through avenues such as staff inductions, training courses,
Performance Development and Review, and Key Performance Indicators
 Continually monitor and report on progress to the community through the
sustainability website, internal and external publications and conferences,
and an annual sustainability report
 Develop a sustainability indicator framework which identifies indicators
and targets and provides the basis for Triple Bottom Line reporting

23.Increase understanding and awareness of sustainability


throughout the University
 Strengthen staff and student awareness and understanding of
sustainability and global citizenship through learning, research and
community service
 Develop resource efficiency education packages for use in workshops and
forums with staff, students and the broader community so that staff and
students:
 understand the connectivity between local and global issues and the
need to work collectively as well as individually
 understand ethical practice in relation to social, environmental and
economic responsibility
 display a willingness to contribute to creating a wiser and better
society
 have an awareness of social disadvantage and social justice issues
 have knowledge of, and openness to, other cultures and perspectives
 Where appropriate present at conferences and forums to showcase the
sustainability initiatives of UNSW
 Collaborate with other higher education institutions to support their
sustainability goals

24.Increase staff, student and community communications and


participation
 Establish connections with UNSW academic experts to provide practical
assessment work relating to the enhancement of the campus environment
 Encourage and reward participation in sustainability actions and initiatives
 Connect with the greater community to promote sustainability and global
citizenship through outreach programs, partnerships and collaborations.
 Establish an incentive system to reward and recognise staff and students
who actively assist with the implementation of sustainability initiatives
 Utilise various media and methods of communication

25.Foster a vibrant and inclusive campus community


 Ensure that all staff and students, regardless of religion, gender, sexual
orientation, socio-economic background, age, disability or ethnicity feel as
though they are a part of the University and the local community
 Ensure all staff and students are given various opportunities and methods
to keep informed and engaged about what is happening at the University
 Continually seek to include articles in campus publications and media
which highlight staff and student innovation and enthusiasm towards
sustainability
 Ensure that staff and students are consulted and given the opportunity to
comment on changes occurring at the University through various means
including workshops, meetings and online
 Seek partnerships with businesses, institutions and government
organisations locally, nationally and internationally to advance UNSW’s
Sustainability Strategy.

UNSW Sustainability Strategy 2010 to 2020 11


26.SUSTAINABILITY GOVERNANCE

The UNSW’s Sustainability Strategy will be directed and managed by the Director
of Sustainability, reporting to the Executive Director – University Services. UNSW
Sustainability will have a key role in the delivery of the commitments in this
Strategy, with guidance and support from a Sustainability Working Group.

UNSW Sustainability and the Sustainability Working Group will work with relevant
departments and offices with responsibility for student and staff services such
including the Faculties, Facilities Management, Procurement, Marketing Unit,
Student Services, and the student organisation ARC@UNSW. Actions to embed
sustainability into the structure and operations of the University are to be
facilitated by UNSW Sustainability and relevant stakeholders with the support of
University Council, Executive Team and Action Groups.

While identified actions are facilitated through UNSW Sustainability,


implementation of the Strategy requires planning and communication across all
Faculties and divisions. Each Faculty and division will have a sustainability
representative to enable good communication and information dissemination.
Sustainability, like OHS, will be included on the agenda of all existing
committees.

27.Sustainability Working Group


The Sustainability Working Group provides advice to the UNSW Sustainability
Office and the Executive Director – University Services regarding plans, activities
and communications which seek to improve the sustainability performance of
UNSW. The Sustainability Working Group will be chaired by the Executive
Director – University Services and includes representatives from a range of
organisational units.

28.Action Groups
Action Groups are responsible for providing direction and support to both the
UNSW Sustainability Office and the Sustainability Working Group for initiation
and implementation of initiatives which improve sustainability performance and
embed sustainability into the practices of the University. New Action Groups may
be developed and/or existing groups may be absorbed into other groups or
discontinued when practice is successfully embedded into culture and no longer
requires guidance.

29.Legislative Compliance
The UNSW Level 1 OHS committee, now the OHS and Environment (OHS&E)
Committee has responsibility allocating management responsibility and ensuring
appropriate training and procedures are in place. Responsibility and relevant
policies and training for environmental laws and sustainability related legislation
is set out in an Environmental Law Compliance Register a copy of which will be
regularly tabled and kept up to date by the Level 1 OHS&E Committee and UNSW
Sustainability Office.
30.OBJECTIVES AND TARGETS

To achieve the goals and objectives of this Sustainability Strategy the UNSW
Sustainability Office will work with Faculties and operational areas of the
University utilising the plans, goals and targets set by these organisational units.

Action Groups in areas such as water, energy, transport and waste will work
directly with the UNSW Sustainability Office to develop Sustainability Action
Plans. Each Sustainability Action Plan provides all the detailed actions required to
reach objectives, key performance indicators (KPIs) and targets outlined in the
following sections of this Strategy.

Activities within one area will obviously affect activities in another area. For
example, it will be difficult to reach energy and water objectives and targets if
the actions addressing planning and development do not reach high design
standards for energy and water efficiency. Similarly it will be difficult to gain
support and ownership of sustainability initiatives if staff and students are
dissatisfied with their work and study environment.

31.Energy and Emissions


Climate change poses one of the biggest challenges of the 21st century for
individuals and institutions alike. While the extent of climate change is uncertain,
its effects cumulative and erratic, that the planet is warming and sea levels are
rising is beyond scientific doubt. Despite the complexity and at times uncertainty
surrounding the likely impacts of climate change, the solution to the problem is
somewhat clearer.

Greenhouse gas emissions need to be reduced below current levels. What is also
clear is that immediate action is essential. If we are to reduce our greenhouse
gas emissions and carbon footprint we must change the way we procure and
manage emission generating activities through innovation and creativity in our
thinking.

Many of the energy consumption issues we face today have come about as a
result of cheap energy. The impact of future energy cost increases further
enhances the requirements for high energy efficiency and importantly starts to
make a significant impact on using alternative energy. It is for this reason, in
conjunction with the need to preserve resources and the environment, that
UNSW must plan for the future with regards to energy and emissions patterns.

Aim: To use energy efficiently and become a producer of renewable energy to


ensure we do not unnecessarily contribute to climate change.

Objectives:
1. Use sustainable energy technology to produce energy that is not
emissions intensive;
2. Undertake regular carbon emissions auditing to ensure we are consistently
decreasing our emissions to an acceptable level;
3. Ensure all equipment purchased maximises energy efficiency;
4. Educate staff, students and the wider community through a power saving
awareness campaign, highlighting what individuals can do to make a
difference.
5. Establish an Energy and Carbon Reduction Action Group to advise and
assist in the implementation of our sustainability targets.

UNSW Sustainability Strategy 2010 to 2020 13


Key Performance Indicators and Targets

Indicator 2015 target 2020 target


Total energy consumption per Reduce by 15% per Reduce by 30% per
year per Equivalent Fulltime EFTSU from 2010 level EFTSU from 2010
Student Unit (EFTSU) [based on level
2% reduction for EFTSU per year]
Percent of energy generated on 20% 30%
site
Percentage of energy from 15% 35%
renewable sources
Total Greenhouse Gas emissions Reduced by 30% from Reduced by 30% from
produced per year for campus 2005 emissions 2005 emissions
operations per EFTSU
32.Water
The intermittent and uncertain supply of water has led individuals and
organisations to take an active interest in their water usage and the
sustainability of water supply. Australians believe water conservation is one of
the most environmental challenges and water is the top environmental issue for
more people than any other area of concern.

Stemming from this and other imperatives to conserve water the NSW
Department of Climate Change and Water requires UNSW, as one of the top 200
water users in NSW, to prepare and publish a Water Savings Action Plan. The
UNSW’s Water Saving Action Plan is available at <
www.facilities.unsw.edu.au/index.php/download_file/-/view/38>

In addition to legislative requirements, UNSW accepts its responsibility to


become an efficient water user and demonstrate to the community the place
water conservation has in future developments.

On many parts of the campus, drinking (potable) water has been replaced with
bore water drawn from the underground Botany aquifer on which the Kensington
campus sits. UNSW uses a bore water recharge system, which ensures this
aquifer is properly managed. The University has devised a system to catch 70
percent of the storm water on the campus, equal to 160 million litres of water
(64 Olympic swimming pools) and return this to the groundwater table via the
recharge system.

Other UNSW campus water saving initiatives include:

 Installation of waterless urinals and timed-flow taps (Each tap saves an


estimated 20,000 litres of water a year.)
 A water treatment plant, being built on the western side of the campus to
enable borewater to be used for air conditioning cooling towers and other
applications requiring treated water. The borewater treatment plant alone
will save 110 million litres of water a year.
 Underground leak detection in pipes, which amounts to approximately 10
percent of total UNSW consumption.

Aim: To reduce water usage and increase water capture and recycling across
UNSW.

Objectives
1. To achieve continual improvement in water conservation;
2. To investigate and install water saving devices and new technology;
3. To run a water saving awareness campaigns among the University’s
community;
4. To reach Five Star rating in the Every Drop Counts Business Program;
5. Establish an Energy and Carbon Reduction Action Group to advise and
assist in the implementation of our sustainability targets.

Key Performance Indicators and Targets

Indicator 2015 target 2020 target


Total potable water consumption Reduced by 20% of Reduce by 40% per
per EFTSU 2010 figures EFTSU from 2010
level

UNSW Sustainability Strategy 2010 to 2020 15


Total water consumption (potable Reduced by 15% of Reduce by 30% per
and bore water) per EFTSU 2010 figures EFTSU from 2010
level
33.Waste
While UNSW was an early pioneer in the recycling of paper and cardboard there
is much more to be done to address the large amount of waste produced by the
University and subsequently taken to land fill. The University will establish a
Waste Reduction and Recycling Action Group to find better solutions to UNSW’s
waste issues. Minimising waste and maximising resource recovery opportunities
are critical elements of UNSW’s Sustainability Strategy. UNSW’s ultimate goal is
zero waste. To turn this into reality the University will examine and re-examine
our entire supply chain to find new ways of reducing waste from consumption
and transforming waste into resources.

UNSW already actively manages the recycling, re-use and disposal of materials
ranging from hazardous substances, paper, toner cartridges, food waste and
garden vegetation, containers, computers and other electronic equipment,
stationery, furniture, laboratory equipment, hard waste, batteries and plastics.
Bottles, cans and general waste collected from public areas at UNSW are
delivered to an alternative waste technology facility that uses a four-stage
biological treatment process to mechanically sort the waste to remove
recyclables and inert materials. It then biologically treats the organic materials
such as food scraps and garden clippings. Waste is transformed into valued
resources, including metals, glass, paper, green electricity and compost with
more than 70% of waste materials recovered. This process replaces individual
can and bottle recycling bins. As a result UNSW’s recycling rates surpass the
New South Wales Government 2014 waste reduction and resource recovery
targets.

Aim: To increase recycling across campus to 70% and decrease waste to landfill
to 30%.

Objectives
1. To ensure all waste that can be recycled is recycled, including but not
limited to:
a. glass, plastic, cartons, aluminium cans
b. paper/cardboard
c. furniture
d. food waste/organics
e. e-waste
f. Batteries, mobile phones and florescent lights.
2. Run a waste and recycling awareness campaign to educate and raise
consciousness in the University community of sustainable waste
management practices (rethink, reduce, reuse, recycle).
3. To promote an environment which embraces creative and innovative
solutions to promote re-use and recycling and reduce waste to land fill
4. To gather data and report on progress on an annual basis.
5. Establish a Waste Reduction and Recycling Action Group to advise and
assist in the implementation of our sustainability targets.

Key Performance Indicators and Targets

Indicator 2015 target 2020 target


Amount of solid waste produced per Reduced by 20% of Reduced by 30% of
year 2010 figures 2010 figures
Percentage of solid waste going to Less than 30% of total Less than 20% of
landfill waste total waste
Percentage of solid waste diverted At least 70% of total At least 80% of total

UNSW Sustainability Strategy 2010 to 2020 17


from landfill waste (tonnes) includes
organic, cardboard, metals, paper,
glass, plastic etc
34.Procurement
Current procurement practices at UNSW do not adequately account for
sustainability impacts of the goods and services we procure. By incorporating
sustainability principles and practices, sustainable procurement can minimise the
environmental impacts of the University, as well as benefit society, the natural
environment and reduce overall operating costs.

Good procurement practice serves efficient and cost-effective operations and it


is clear that the procurement practices of the University have great potential to
contribute to broader economic, environmental and social objectives. For
example, through sustainable procurement, we can drive the production of
environmentally and socially friendly goods and services and educate our
students and staff about the impact of their purchasing decisions.

Aim: To purchase goods only when absolutely necessary, incorporating the


whole-of-life impacts of products when doing so. To work with current suppliers
and seek future suppliers who will support UNSW to meet its sustainability goals
and objectives.

Objectives
1. Select products and services which have lower environmental impacts
across their life cycle compared with competing products and services
2. Adopt strategies to avoid unnecessary consumption and manage demand
3. Support suppliers who are environmentally and socially responsible and
adopt ethical practices
4. Support businesses and industry groups that demonstrate innovation in
sustainability.
5. Establish a Sustainable Procurement Action Group to advise and assist in
the implementation of our sustainability targets.

Key Performance Indicators and Target

Indicator 2015 target 2020 target


Percentage of equipment At least 90% 95%
purchased with maximum
efficiency ratings for water and
energy
Total percent of UNSW At least 45% At least 75%
merchandise purchased which is
fair trade/environmentally/socially
sound declared produce
Total amount of paper (of all Reduce by 20% of base Reduce by 40% of
types) purchased by all year figures base year figures
departments

UNSW Sustainability Strategy 2010 to 2020 19


35.Transport
Each day more than 60,000 trips are made to and from UNSW most of which are
by bus. While the University has a regular express bus service from Central
Railway Station the large number of people travelling this route mean that
despite a high frequency service, passenger loading times lead to delays and
overcrowding. The UNSW Kensington is the largest single destination for people
in eastern Sydney and the busiest regular bus route in Australia. The NSW
Government’s State Plan includes projections for further jobs growth in the
Randwick Education and Health Centre. This will further increase transport
pressures. UNSW’s Kensington campus is the only major Sydney University
without railway access. The University strongly supports and advocates the
construction of a new metro rail line or tram line to link the Kensington campus
to the city centre. A rail or tram service would dramatically reduce travelling
times and car use, free up local roads and provide a valuable transport
connection. It would also eliminate sizeable amounts of greenhouse gas
emissions and other pollutants. UNSW will continue to campaign and lobby for
the construction of a railway line that includes UNSW.

While car parking at UNSW is limited, driving by car to and from the University
remains attractive to many staff and students. Car transport is in direct conflict
with sustainability goals and objectives such as reducing greenhouse gas
emissions. As such, it is necessary to implement actions to change single
passenger private vehicle dependency. The University has undertaken to not
increase the number of new car parking places available on campus. UNSW will
also introduce environmental pricing for parking permits to encourage the use of
cleaner vehicles and reward sustainable choices. Permit fees for cleaner
vehicles, based on the star rating of vehicles in the Federal Government’s Green
Vehicle Guide <www.greenvehicleguide.gov.au> will be lower than for vehicles
which emit high levels of greenhouse gas and air pollution. The University has
good cycle and pedestrian access however the University will continue to work
with the NSW Government and Randwick Council to further improve public
transport, cycle and pedestrian access and to improve facilities for cycling on
campus.

Aim: Achieve a Transport Greenhouse Gas Reduction target of 40% over the
next 5-10 years based on 2010 levels.

Objectives:
1. Change current travel patterns towards more sustainable modes using two
approaches: a use initiatives which encourage and make it easier to
change b use discouragement initiatives which make the car driving
experience less attractive.
2. Reduce the need to travel by supporting telecommuting and video
conferencing.
3. Limit the environmental impact as much as possible for those who
continue to drive.
4. Establish a Sustainable Transport Action Group to advise and assist in the
implementation of our sustainability targets.

Key Performance Indicators and Targets


Indicator 2015 target 2020 target
Total number of students and staff Students: 15% of Students: 10%
primarily travelling alone in a car to EFTSU EFTSU
and from campus Staff: 35% of staff Staff: 25%

Increase number of students and Students: 20% of Students: 25%


staff primarily travelling by foot or EFTSU EFTSU
bicycle to & from campus Staff: 20% of staff Staff: 25% of staff

Increase the number of students Students: 60% of Students: 65%


and staff primarily travelling by EFTSU EFTSU
public transport Staff: 45% of staff Staff: 55% of staff
Reduce Transport CO2 emissions Reduce by 20% of Reduced by 40% of
2010 figure 2010 figure

UNSW Sustainability Strategy 2010 to 2020 21


36.Planning and Development

Sustainable planning and development is in line with growing community


expectations and complies with emerging state and local government planning
and development requirements. UNSW’s Kensington Campus Strategic Brief
commits the University to ensuring that future developments on all of our main
campus incorporate sustainability principles. We are also committed to ensuring
at all UNSW campuses and field stations incorporate sustainability principles.

UNSW is committed to setting goals, objectives and targets in relation to


sustainable green building design, planning and facilities management. Green
buildings have benefits such as longer lifespan, reduced replacement and lower
operating costs. Additionally, carbon emissions are reduced and environmental
and social responsibility is accounted for. More energy efficient buildings will be
less affected by an impending carbon emissions trading scheme.

Aim: To reach best practice standards in accordance with Green Building Council
frameworks in building design and campus planning for future developments on
all UNSW campuses and field stations.

Objectives:
1. Inform all stakeholders about principles and practices that guide the
approach to sustainability in planning and development
2. Detail the fundamental design elements for Environmentally Sustainable
Design
3. Conserve and protect natural resources by protecting non-renewable
resources encouraging efficient buildings for energy and water
conservation and minimisation of waste and pollution
4. Maximise long-term value of developments by catering for future
generations of users
5. Continually improve to meet market and community expectations
6. Develop sustainable buildings and urban spaces to assist in the goal to
become a sustainable campus.

Key Performance Indicators and Targets

Indicator 2015 target 2020 target


Green Building Council of Australia 100% of all new 100% of all new
5 star (or better) for all new buildings buildings
buildings and major 70% for major 100% for major
refurbishments refurbishments refurbishments
37.Research
It is a key goal in UNSW’s B2B Blueprint to Beyond, Strategic Intent to be
nationally and internationally recognised and reviewed research is a goal for
UNSW. To become a leading research University and take our place amongst the
top 3 research universities in the world, we need to undertake research that is
useful to society as a whole.

UNSW is already making a unique contribution to the study of global warming


and study of sustainability practices more generally. We undertake outstanding
research in this area with unparalleled achievements in photovoltaic and water
research, the built environment and areas of the social sciences. UNSW’s School
of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering are international leaders in
the development of solar cell and renewable energy technologies. Our Climate
Change Research Centre, with its critical mass of researchers addressing almost
every aspect of climate change, directly influences policy on Australia's
environmental management.

The UNSW Institute of Environmental Studies (IES) provides postgraduate


programs in Environmental Management and multi-disciplinary teaching in
sustainability building networks for consulting and research work in projects
requiring technical and social or policy expertise.

UNSW will work to maintain our leadership in sustainability research and this
research will set the standard and a model for how large organisations conduct
themselves in an environmentally responsible and sustainable way.

Aim: To become a leading research University known for its contribution to


achieving environmental and societal goals

Objectives:
1. Undertake an analysis of research to establish the amount of collaborative
projects
2. Encourage and support research related to sustainability, providing a
platform for sharing findings and recommendations
3. Support student research into social and/or environmental issues

Key Performance Indicators and Targets

Indicator 2015 target 2020 target


Total number of on campus At least 40% of total At least 50% of total
research projects involving two or research research
more on-campus departments
Total tenured faculty ‘specialised’ At least 20% of tenured At least 30% of
in sustainability focused research staff tenured staff

Total research dollars spent on Continued increase Continued increase


sustainability based projects

UNSW Sustainability Strategy 2010 to 2020 23


38.Learning and Teaching

UNSW already has some of the best sustainability related educational programs
in the world. UNSW remains committed to the Universities Australia policy on
Education for Sustainable Development, aimed at promoting an appropriate
institutional culture of sustainable development and building capacity in the
community by educating the next generation of professionals and leaders to
become fully aware of sustainability.

Sustainability has been referred to in higher education learning and teaching for
many years following initial drives to ‘green’ the curriculum. How to incorporate
issues of sustainability into the higher education experience of students
continues to promote debate not least because the meaning of sustainability
varies across individuals, programs and institutions. Likewise there are many
ideas about how best to incorporate education for such a capability into the
curriculum.

UNSW has a growing emphasis on sustainability in learning and teaching as


indicated by the Learning and Teaching plan, the integration of ‘planet, people
and participation’ into program design, and the incorporation of sustainability
into the framework of graduate capabilities. Sustainability in the curriculum
aligns with drivers such as the UN Decade of Education for Sustainable
Development 2005 – 2015 and the NSW Council of Environmental Education who
have resolved that:

Aim: Incorporate sustainability into the learning and teaching of the University.

Objectives
1. To stimulate academic debate and discourse about sustainability, its
meaning, values and approaches to learning and teaching
2. To engage the University community in reflecting on and incorporating
sustainability in learning and teaching
3. To foster the development of engaged and ethical local and global citizens
who are aware of the challenges of contemporary society and willing to
participate in the creation of a wiser and better world
4. To articulate the principles of sustainability for the community
5. To ensure incorporation into the curriculum via graduate capability
statements
6. To make more explicit to students those aspects of sustainability already
incorporated in learning and teaching programs

Key Performance Indicators and Targets

Indicator 2015 target 2020 target


Total number of programs that At least 75% 100%
have sustainability as a
component
Total number of students having At least 60% At least 80%
taken at least one unit with
substantial sustainability content
Total tenured faculty ‘specialised’ At least 30% At least 50%
in sustainability focused teaching
39.Governance

To embed sustainability into the framework of any organisation it is essential to


address governance. It is insufficient to assume that technological changes along
with educational and awareness campaigns will lead to sustained change over
the long term.

UNSW needs to review all its existing policies and procedures, as well as stated
values, visions, missions and key performance indicators to ensure that
sustainability is encompassed within these.

We also need to develop a clear process to monitor, evaluate and report on


progress against this Sustainability Strategy. Producing an Annual Sustainability
Report will environmental help us measure our progress towards our
sustainability goals and communicate these to the wider community.

The UNSW Sustainability Office, the Sustainability Working Group and relevant
stakeholders with the support of University Council, Executive Team and Action
Groups will work with relevant departments and offices with responsibility for
student and staff services such to embed sustainability into the structure and
operations of the University.

Aim: To have sustainability embedded into the core of UNSW’s operations.

Objectives:
1. To ensure appropriate policies and procedures are in place
2. Work with senior executives, directors, heads of departments and
managers to assist them in understanding what it means to incorporate
sustainability into daily practices
3. Incorporate sustainability into key performance indicators
4. Align the strategic direction of the University with the strategic direction of
the sustainability program
5. Ensure departments and faculties have sustainability representatives and
include sustainability on the agenda at meetings

Key Performance Indicators and Targets

Indicator 2015 target 2020 target


Total number of policies in place 80% of possible policies 100% of possible
supporting sustainability policies

Total number of Faculties with 80% 100%


sustainability representatives
and/or committees

UNSW Sustainability Strategy 2010 to 2020 25


40.Biodiversity

UNSW’s Kensington campus contains a number of threatened ecological


vegetation communities. This gives both benefits and responsibilities. The
benefits include the amenity values and the ability of students to implement
theoretical learning in the local area, as well as the intangible environmental
benefits that accrue. Responsibilities include the need to manage these areas
appropriately for future generations and to link with our neighbours in creating
biodiversity corridors through the region.

Continual development, new buildings, the creation of towns and cities and other
human activities all have an impact on plants and animals, endangering some,
and creating conditions where others thrive. How plants and animals react with
their environment and the way this can affect major adaptive change to
generations of species in the future is increasingly becoming a concern.

At UNSW, a concerted effort is being made to improve the native plant and
animal communities on campus. As a result, at least half the plantings in
landscape projects include indigneous plant species from locally propagated
seed.

The Green Trail is a bush tucker and biodiversity walk on the Kensington campus
which highlights the beauty and ecological significance of the plants found in the
Sydney basin. It showcases many of the initiatives UNSW is practising in
environmental sustainability. The Green Trail passes 25 different native plants,
which in many cases were used by Aboriginal Australians for food, medicine and
tools. These plants are mapped and signposted on the Green Trail.

The Green Trail also includes “Buildings and Technologies” and “Programs and
People”. Buildings and Technologies highlights the technological innovations and
sustainability policies that UNSW applies in the design and construction of new
buildings. Programs and People showcases the environmental research, teaching
and operational programs in place on campus.

Aim: To ensure minimal management natural systems at UNSW campus by


detailing, protecting, enhancing and linking existing biodiversity nodes.

Objectives
1. To develop a learning and teaching environment that includes
management of biodiversity and geodiversity on campus
2. To ensure best practice management of existing biodiversity and improve
the biodiversity values on campus
3. To ensure that all University policies and procedures consider the
importance of biodiversity values on campus and that development and
maintenance works on campus enhance these values
41.SUSTAINABLE POLICY

UNSW was one of the first Australian universities to establish a high-level


environmental advisory body, the Environment Policy Advisory Committee
(EPAC), and to prepare a corporate Environment Policy, approved by University
Council in February 1995.

An environment policy was revised and updated in 2000 and again in 2004 with
the current UNSW policy approved by University Council on 20 June 2005.

The University also has an Environmental Management Plan that expired in


2010. It is proposed that this Sustainability Strategy be endorsed along with a
new Sustainability Policy to replace the existing Environmental Management Plan
and Environment Policy.

A draft UNSW Sustainability Policy to replace the existing Environment Policy has
been distributed for comment and is at Annexure B.

UNSW Sustainability Strategy 2010 to 2020 27


42.SUSTAINABILITY COMMUNICATIONS PLAN

Effective Communication is essential to changing existing practices


Addressing sustainability provides UNSW with an opportunity to market its
actions to current and future staff, students, the community and businesses. Our
sustainability communications plan seeks to define the communication strategy
and achieve the following goals:

Goals
1. Improve recognition of UNSW’s contribution to sustainability
2. Communicate a clear message of UNSW’s vision, goals and achievements
3. Improve awareness and understanding by staff and students about
sustainability at UNSW.

Objectives
Promote UNSW’s sustainability initiatives through:

 UNSW Publications including News@UNSW, Unkien, Tharunka, Blitz


 Communication and consultation with staff, students, University Council,
the Alumni Association, UNSW Foundation, donors, community groups,
individual community leaders, the education and sustainability
community.
 A high quality Annual Sustainability Report
 A UNSW sustainability website that contains resources and is regularly
updated
 Social media including Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Flickr.
 Relevant higher education, local community publications and other print
media.
 Annual Town Hall Meetings, forums and events
 Coordinated and sustained communication of UNSW Sustainability vision
and strategy
 UNSW BrainFood public lecture on Sustainability topics
 Demonstrated commitment to the vision and strategy in written and
verbal communications with staff in Faculties, Schools and Department
whenever appropriate.
 Sustainability Working Group meetings
 Communicate progress and gain input and advice from DVC and Executive
Director – University Services with monthly meetings
 Organise regular meetings with Media and Communications Unit
 Education/sustainability-specific media.
 Politicians, both State and Federal.

This Sustainability Strategy communicates a clear, integrated and coherent


message of our commitment to sustainability. UNSW will promote this
Sustainability Strategy to provide a strongly visible vision of UNSW sustainability
actions and plans to both the University’s internal community and to its external
stakeholders.
43.REPORTING ON UNSW’S SUSTAINABILITY PERFORMANCE

As part of our commitment to our sustainability and our stakeholders UNSW will
regularly, and where possible continuously, report and communicate its progress
towards achieving sustainability against each of the objectives and targets in this
Sustainability Strategy.

Most ASX 200 companies and more than half of the Fortune 500 already release
annual Sustainability Reports, also called Corporate Social Responsibility
Reports, Triple Bottom Line and Global Citizenship Reports. Leading national and
multinational corporations know that addressing sustainability and reporting on
progress against targets not only benefit the environment and society, they
support the bottom line and improve perception of the organisation by
customers and employees.

Reporting on our social and environmental performance presents a challenge, as


some of the information is not captured within the existing mandatory financial
reporting framework. Consequently, a Sustainability Report Action Group will
help facilitate the collection of data and information for sustainability reporting
throughout the University.

Aim
The Sustainability Report Action Group will aim to:

1. Develop a reporting framework that aligns with recognised and accepted


sustainable reporting guidelines including the Global Reporting Initiative
and UN Global Compact
2. Support the implementation of data reporting systems to standardise and
regularise sustainability reporting
3. Produce a Sustainability Report every 12 months which is consistent and
comparable over time.
4. Measure and report the University’s Carbon Footprint incorporating all
relevant aspects of UNSW’s operations and in accordance with
internationally recognised reporting standards
5. Analyse key progress to establish the annual benchmarking targets and
priorities
6. Develop and standardise measurement systems and data collection and
storage techniques for all relevant areas
7. Effectively communicate findings to all stakeholders and regularly check
the effectiveness of the annual Sustainability Report with key stakeholders
8. As part of communicating progress towards sustainability, utilise a variety
of communicative methods such as a UNSW Sustainability website, staff
and student publications, etc.
9. Make reports and sustainability data available on the Internet in open
source machine-readable formats.
10.Recommend areas of priority attention to the Sustainability Working Group
and associated Action Groups

UNSW’s annual Sustainability Report will be approved by the Sustainability


Working Group and presented to the Vice Chancellor and University Council each
year. This report will be published and made available to internal and external
stakeholders.

UNSW Sustainability Strategy 2010 to 2020 29


ANNEXURE A – DECLARATIONS AND CHARTERS

The following are the major declarations and organisations endorsed by UNSW, each
calling for universities to make a strong commitment to the implementation of
sustainability.

Declarations and Charters Organisation or Event Main Goal

Talloires Declaration University Leaders for a The Talloires Declaration is a ten-


Sustainable Future point action plan for incorporating
sustainability and environmental
literacy in teaching, research,
operations and outreach at
colleges and universities.

Universitas 21 The Universitas 21 The Universitas 21 Statement on


Statement on Sustainability affirm recognition of
Sustainability the commitments concerning the
leadership of universities in
progressing global sustainable
development including that
signatories lead by example:
Establish the University Campus as
a Living Laboratory a for
Sustainable Future.
Australian Universities National Union of Students This charter is similar in content to
Ecological Development the Talloires Declaration and
(UAED) Charter National Union provides a strong framework to
of Students. guide sustainability within
Australian Universities.

Sapporo Sustainability G8 University Summit Declaration outlining the


Declaration responsibility of universities to
contribute toward the attainment
of sustainability, and the specific
actions they must undertake to
fulfil that responsibility. It
recognises 8 principles concerning
the role of universities in global
efforts to attain sustainability.
Agenda 21 (particularly UNESCO Global sustainable development
Chapter agenda to set into place a range of
36 [Education, Public activities designed to implement
Awareness sustainability. It advocates a
and Training]) holistic approach to environmental
education.

United Nations Decade of UNESCO Focuses on the global


Education implementation of environmental
for Sustainable Development education for everyone’s benefit,
2005-2015 while working to build the
community’s capacity to co-create
a sustainable future.

AVCC Policy on Education for Australian Vice- Declares a commitment to


Sustainable Development Chancellor’s Education for Sustainable
Committee (now Development, and acknowledges
Universities Australia) the leading role played by
universities in furthering the goals
of the UN Decade of Education
for Sustainable Development.

The Greenhouse Challenge Australian Greenhouse Australian Greenhouse Office


Office Reduction of greenhouse gas
emissions from buildings, waste
products and plant & office
equipment.
Kyoto Declaration on IUA To urge universities worldwide to
Sustainable seek, establish and disseminate a
Development clearer understanding of
Sustainable Development. It is
recommended that each university
have its own action plan which
makes an institutional commitment
to the principle and practice of
sustainable development

Annexure B – Sustainability Policy

SUSTAINABILITY POLICY
UNSW Policy
Responsible Officer Director, UNSW Sustainability Office
Aaron Magner
Contact Officer
Director – UNSW Sustainability Office
Superseded Documents Environment Policy
Review Review shall commence date June 2011
File Number Trim file 2010
UNSW Sustainability Strategy
Associated Documents Environmental Compliance Register
Talloires Declaration, Universitas 21
Versi
on Authorisation Approval Date Effective Date
Authorised by Executive
0.1 20 June 2010 20 June 2010
Director – University Services

1. Purpose
To outline UNSW’s commitment to sustainability.

2. Background
Sustainability is a guiding principle in UNSW’s Strategic Intent, B2B Blueprint to Beyond.
UNSW is also a signatory to a number of international declarations, including Talloires
Declaration and the Universitas 21 Statement on Sustainability. As a leading research
intensive university in the Asia-Pacific region, with a focus on contemporary and social
issues, a peer in good standing with the best globally, we aspire to be a leader in
sustainability.

UNSW is committed to incorporating the principles of sustainability into its actions and
practices. UNSW is understands its responsibility to the community and the environment,
as well as its duty to promote a healthy workplace and campus for staff and students.

The University takes the approach that sustainability is an ongoing effort to improve the
quality of people’s lives and surroundings. This approach is targeted towards ensuring
prosperity, whilst maintaining the life supporting systems that current and future
generations depend on.
3. Scope
This policy applies to the activities of the University and people associated with it such as
staff, students, visitors and contractors.

4. Definition of Sustainability
Sustainability has come to mean a lot of things to a lot of people. UNSW accepts the
most often quoted definition of sustainability – living successfully in the present without
compromising our ability to do so in the future. UNSW also understands that
sustainability is closely intertwined with issues such as climate change, planning and
development, resource use, diversity and biodiversity, internationalisation, ethical

UNSW Sustainability Strategy 2010 to 2020 31


practice, equality and health.

For the purpose of this strategy, UNSW’s approach to sustainability recognises the need
to work toward a balance between environmental protection, social justice, economic
well-being and cultural diversity. Our understanding of these equal dimensions of
sustainability is as follows:

 Environmental protection: To the best of our abilities, negating the impact of


our activities on the environment to protect or enhance the local and global
ecosystem. We will work to understand the environmental aspects and impacts of
our activities and where appropriate change the way that we operate.

 Social justice: Understanding that our actions affect all members of society and
behaving in a way that demonstrates our belief that all people matter. Provide the
opportunity for equal employment, decent living and working conditions, support
the community in poverty eradication, promotion of full employment and decent
work, gender equity and access to social well-being and justice for all.

 Economic well-being: Maintaining and improving our economic viability to the


benefit of staff, students and the community but not at the expense of other
principles. Economic well-being is a crucial element of human well-being not least
because most aspects of well-being in modern society have to be purchased,
including food, water, shelter, health care and comfort.

 Cultural diversity: UNSW values and protects our cultural diversity. This
includes cultural diversity reflected in gender, age, language, ethnicity, cultural
background, sexual orientation, and religious beliefs. Cultural diversity also refers
to the other ways in which people are different, such as educational level, life
experience, work experience, physical disability, socio-economic background,
personality and marital status. It involves recognising and appreciating the value
of individual differences.

UNSW is committed to embedding sustainability across the institution through by


balance between the each of these dimensions of sustainability.

4. Policy Statement
UNSW’s vision is for the University to be ecologically sound, socially just and
economically viable in all of its activities. This means:

 As an institution we function as a sustainable community, embodying responsible


consumption of energy, water, food, products and transport.
 We actively support sustainability in our local community and region.
 UNSW has a reputation for being the place to learn, to work and to connect with
the local and global community.
 UNSW students leave the University prepared to contribute as working citizens to
an environmentally healthy and equitable society.

Global social and community awareness: The University recognises connections to


the local and global community and acknowledges that its actions and decisions have the
ability to affect others beyond the immediate community. To this end sustainability will
be incorporated into research as well as learning and teaching, and our reach to the local
and global community will be extended through active partnerships and participation.

Participation: Staff, student and community participation in decision-making about the


University’s activities is valued and will be sought whenever possible in the development
and implementation of the University’s sustainability agenda. A range of mechanisms will
be established for this purpose inclusive of joint working parties and local sustainability
committees.

Shared responsibility: All members of the University community are responsible for
our sustainability performance and as such will be made aware of their role through
induction, professional development, the provision of necessary educational and material
resources and ongoing training and awareness. Sustainability is the responsibility of all
staff and students and will form an important part of key performance indicators as a
matter of process over time.

Demonstrating best practice: The University will integrate sustainability into all its
aspects and functions. It will be embedded into all operational policies and procedures;
considered in all strategic and operational planning; and enabled through sustainable
practices. Research into sustainability best practice in the higher education sector and
other sectors of the economy will also be undertaken to ensure the University maintains
best practice where possible.

Leadership: Educational, research and resource management activities will be utilised


to profile sustainable practices amongst staff, students and the communities served by
UNSW

Openness and transparency: Actions and processes will be transparent and progress
will be reported fully to staff, students and the wider community

Precautionary principle: Caution and prudence will guide decisions and the absence of
full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing measures in the
context of uncertain environmental or social effects.

Innovation and creativity: Creative and innovative approaches will be employed to


find solutions to and eliminate unsustainable practices.

5. Legal & Policy Framework


Roles and responsibilities are set out in the Environmental Compliance Register and
UNSW’s Sustainability Strategy.
6. Review
UNSW’s sustainability vision, goals and objectives will be reviewed on an annual basis in
consultation with staff and students. This process will ensure that our statements are still
valid in the context of an ever changing environment. The University will monitor and
report on progress against identified indicators and targets on a regular basis. These
reports will be made publicly available and will be discussed regularly with staff and
students.

Appendix A: History
Versio Approval Effective
Authorised by Sections modified
n Date Date
President and Not Applicable
1.0 May 2010 May 2010
Vice-Chancellor

UNSW Sustainability Policy Page x


Version: 0.1 3 May 2010

UNSW Sustainability Strategy 2010 to 2020 33

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