John Moores gets greener

Liverpool John Moores University has adopted a comprehensive policy statement aimed at making its activities more environmentally-friendly. Less waste, more cycling and fewer parking spaces could be among the early results.

Frank Sanderson, dean of the university, said that the statement is among the early responses to the 1992 D for E report Environmental Responsibility: An Agenda for Higher Education.

The report, produced by a committee chaired by Peter Toyne, John Moores vice chancellor, recommended that every further and higher education institution should adopt a comprehensive environmental policy statement, together with an action plan for its implementation, by the end of the academic year 1994-95.

Energy, transport and purchasing policies are among those being targeted by Liverpool John Moores for "greening". Regular environmental audits are planned and management functions relating to environmental good practice will be carried out in accordance with the Institute of Management's code of practice. A waste management audit has already been carried out.

When purchasing services, materials, equipment and consumables, the university plans to give preference to items produced in ways which do least harm to the environment. Where possible, local or regional suppliers will be given preference. The institution already requires minimum packaging from its suppliers: "If firms do not comply with this requirement then the goods are sent back," says Professor Sanderson.

All members of the university will be encouraged to use public transport, bicycles or communal transport for travel into the university and between campuses. Reduced demand for parking space is expected to be one of the policy's key benefits.

University vehicles will be purchased or where possible modified to minimise pollution and make more economical use of fuel. A campaign is proposed for cycle paths linking campuses and other student facilities. Pedestrian and wheelchair access to campuses and buildings will also be made easier.

One target is the introduction of interest-free loans for all members of staff wanting to buy season tickets for public transport, and extending this to the purchase of bicycles.

Energy efficiency proposals include careful monitoring of energy consumption and the elimination of its excessive or unnecessary use. The university already demands an environmentally-responsible approach to new buildings or refurbishments. New buildings will now have to demonstrate the use of "sustainably-produced" materials and construction methods which make optimum use of resources.