27 June 2011

The University of Adelaide has become the first university in the State to be awarded a Sustainability Licence from the Environment Protection Authority (EPA).

This award recognises the University's genuine commitment to reducing its impact on the environment.

A Sustainability Licence combines the standard EPA licence with a voluntary sustainability agreement. This agreement outlines the University's public commitment to reducing its impact on the local environment.

EPA Deputy Presiding Member Stephen Hains said the EPA's Sustainability Licence was only presented to businesses that have gone above and beyond standard EPA licence conditions and demonstrate a genuine commitment to reducing their environmental footprint.

"The launch of their flagship building Innova21 - Australia's first 6 Star Green Star Design in the education sector - is a practical demonstration that the University is a truly deserving recipient of the Sustainability Licence," Mr Hains said.

The University's Vice-President (Services & Resources), Mr Paul Duldig, said: "The University of Adelaide is already a widely recognised leader in environmental research and education, and we believe it's important to demonstrate leadership in sustainability issues at an operational level.

Minister for Environment and Conservation the Hon. Paul Caica has congratulated the University of Adelaide on its ongoing efforts to improve environmental performance.

"I'm pleased to see the University of Adelaide has become the first educational institution in the State to take this step, leading by example and helping to show what can be achieved towards environmental sustainability," Mr Caica said.