Carbon Emissions Cut by Edinburgh University

Edinburgh University is one of 10 universities to sign up to the 10:10 campaign, which encourages both individuals and organisations to cut their carbon emissions by 10% by 2010.

The university itself now has a population of 35,000 across its three campuses, using around 400,000 tonnes of CO2 each year. The buildings themselves are historic, meaning certain energy-saving measures have been banned in the past.

However, a new block (home to psychology, language science and philosophy departments) has been built to be low-carbon. It includes digitally operated lighting, energy efficient glass windows, and an excellent rating for its energy efficiency.

The university first proposed energy efficient strategies in 1990, and have since been able to reduce carbon emissions by 31% – despite the fact that the university has tripled in size since then.

The older buildings are now being fitted with sensor-controlled lighting, double glazing and insulation. The university has also installed heat and power plants in three of its main campuses, that can provide electricity, heating and cold/ hot water. The remaining energy used is taken from renewable sources where possible.

The main problem faced by the university comes in the rise of students with computers. From 1,000 computers ten years ago, there are now over 16,000 computers linked to the network. These lifestyle changes are perhaps the toughest challenge in its energy efficiency measures.

Another area that is yet untouched upon is the overseas travel, essential for many of the students and professors of the university. However, in the next 18 months, new plans will see every single student and member of staff asked to cut down the energy they use. This is what they believe will take them to their 10:10 goal.