15 Feb 2019
It’s Better OFF results celebrated with soup kitchen donation
The University is pleased to announce that as a result of the It’s Better OFF campaign over the Christmas break, together we achieved a 5.5% reduction in energy usage compared with the previous year.
In cash terms, this equates to a saving of almost £6,000.
Many buildings across campus made substantial reductions as a result of staff efforts to switch off equipment, and a large piece of work that took place behind the scenes.
Colleagues in Teaching Support worked to ensure lecterns and associated equipment across campus were switched off; Timetabling advised which rooms were not required leading up to and during Christmas; and Facilities Management adjusted the building management systems (BMS) timetables, which control heating and temperatures, taking closure dates into account.
To mark the achievement, the University has made a £250 donation to the Loughborough Students’ Union (LSU) Action Soup Kitchen project, which will sponsor eight weeks of the programme – providing up to 160 two-course meals.
Vice-Chancellor Bob Allison said: “I am grateful to colleagues across the University who played their part in reducing our energy usage. Heating and warm meals can be something we take for granted, especially during the cold winter months, so it is fitting that we support those in our community who often go without.
“Loughborough Students’ Union are doing important work which directly benefits those in need, and we are pleased to donate to this worthy cause.”
Joel Brocklehurst, LSU Action Executive Officer, said: “I can’t thank the University enough for their generosity. We are very proud of the impact Action has had in the community thanks to the efforts of our volunteers, and donations like these make it all possible.
“This project runs almost every Sunday of the year and this donation will give us an opportunity to help more people in need, which is amazing.”
The It’s Better OFF campaign will run again as the Easter break approaches, with further communications to follow. However, staff are encouraged to help reduce energy waste across the year. Guidance and information are available on the Sustainability web pages.