Pioneering Green Unit Launches in Exeter

Exeter communities are set to benefit from an initiative by the University of Exeter Students’ Guild using a £300,000 funding boost from the NUS (National Union of Students) Student Green Fund project.

The Students’ Green Unit was formally launched at the University of Exeter’s Forum Building on Streatham campus on Friday 25 October with representatives in attendance from diverse organisations such as the Met Office, Exeter City Council, Devon County Council and the RSPB.

The Students’ Green Unit will provide a framework for students to develop and lead sustainability initiatives locally, nationally and globally. The Students’ Guild prides itself on successful reduction of its environmental impact and pursuit of sustainability, and now hopes to deliver a legacy for future generations.

Based on five themes that include community engagement and social enterprise, the Students’ Green Unit will not only provide students with academic and practical experience of sustainability, but will seek to directly engage communities in projects designed to tackle local challenges. One such existing project is the Exeter Community Garden that brings together staff and student volunteers with local residents. Further community initiatives might include producing food locally, improving wildlife habitat, recycling student rubbish or increasing biodiversity in and around Exeter.

The Students’ Green Unit Manager Norrie Blackeby says: “Sustainability issues are a high priority for the Students’ Guild and I am delighted that the project is now underway. The Students’ Green Unit will bridge the gaps that exist between academic excellence, community engagement and student action for the benefit of the communities we live in.”

Students’ Green Unit intern Adam Rich says: “The Students’ Green Unit is developing at a great pace. We are looking forward to assessing bids from students for the sustainability issues that matter to them and beginning project work that will deliver real impact and a lasting legacy.”