As exclusively revealed by Vision last week the University of York has committed itself to reduce its carbon emissions by 10% in 2010.
The announcement comes after extensive negotiations with YUSU’s Environment and Ethics officers, David Clarke and Jade Flahive-Gilbert. This culminated in them making the case for the University’s participation at the Energy Coordinators meeting last week.
Clarke and Flahive-Gilbert commended the news, “this bold move gives a concrete, public commitment that the university will take serious steps to reduce its emissions. It’s not just about 10% cuts during this year, this is a pledge for ambitious action in the longer term.We’ve been delighted by the considerable support shown by students to YUSU’s 10:10 campaign. This is a success we can be proud of.”
Professor Alastair Fitter, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research, said: “We are confident that we can meet the 10:10 target as a significant step towards more ambitious reductions in our carbon footprint over the longer term.”
“In addition to reducing our own emissions, the University is at the forefront of research that is improving our understanding of climate change and developing the technologies that will be central to the creation of the low carbon economy of the future.
“We have commissioned a study which will make York the first University to get comprehensive information on its complete carbon footprint, including things such as the hidden carbon use in the products it uses.”
Former chair of People and Planet Society Alex Green praised the move saying,”We applaud the University’s decision to sign up to the 10:10 Campaign and the commitment to tackling climate change that it represents. It remains to be seen whether they can live up to their promise, but this is definitely a step in the right direction and demonstrates the effectiveness of campaigning on the part of students.”