Sustainability in the School of Physics

The University has launched a new Sustainable Campus initiative to engage staff in the challenges of implementing sustainable practices at work. The program is represented by members of the Sustainable Workplace Team who act as ‘champions’ to assist colleagues in making a difference in workplaces across the University. Physics representatives on the Sustainable Workplace Team are:

They aim to provide support and information on sustainability issues and help lead an approach to sustainability in Physics that is driven by the staff and students.

The School of Physics is well placed to be a leader in sustainability based on the technical background of the staff and students. The School is also home to specific expertise, in particular the Integrated Sustainability Analysis group. ISA is internationally known for its Triple Bottom Line/Sustainability Reporting procedures and software.

Physics Sustainability Initiatives

The Physics representatives on the Sustainable Workplace Team have outlined a program of initiatives for the School - small steps for individuals and the School to add to things we already do. The following ideas are currently being explored:

Publicise easy actions staff can take (see below)
Use of 100% recycled paper
Reduce paper usage by printing and copying less and using double-sided printing whenever possible
Provide for recycling of batteries, especially from lecture theatres
Minimise unnecessary lighting by using motion sensors in suitable public areas
Provide separate recycling bins at key locations in the School to send a visible recycling message to undergraduate students
Provide for recycling of e-waste such as mobile phones
Improve water efficiency in toilets and all water outlets

Do you have any ideas? Contact the .

What do we do already?

Printer cartridges are recycled via the Cartridges 4 Planet Ark program
Blue paper recycling bins are provided for waste paper and cardboard
'Bring out your dead' recycling of computer equipment via the University's e-waste recycling

What you can do

Print less - disk space is cheap and easily searched, often making it much easier to find than a printed copy.
Print double-sided whenever possible. If not, can you reprint on the back or use the pages as note paper?
Put waste paper into the blue recycling bins (large amounts should go straight to the skip in the car park)
Take other recyclables home (until suitable bins are provided in Physics)
Set computer monitors and disks to sleep when idle and turn them off at night where possible
Turn off other equipment (photocopiers and research equipment) overnight
Recycle batteries, especially from lecture theatres
Use natural lighting during the day (when possible) and turn off unnecessary lights at night
Use natural ventillation in your office (if possible) to minimise use of air conditioning
Avoid driving to work where possible
Report leaky taps and toilets (Call 9351 7838)