Links with capital funding bolster carbon reduction plans

11 December 2008

Plans for cutting the higher education sector's carbon emissions are set out in a recent HEFCE report to the Secretary of State.

In his 2008 grant letter, John Denham asked HEFCE to make carbon reduction a factor in future capital allocations to higher education institutions. HEFCE has now outlined plans for working with the sector to achieve this, and how sector-level carbon reduction targets can be set.

Steve Egan, HEFCE Deputy Chief Executive, said:

'The transition to a low-carbon economy has opportunities and challenges for everyone in higher education. Linking carbon reduction to capital funds will provide a practical means by which the sector can show leadership and demonstrate achievement in this area.'

HEFCE has commissioned research that will recommend targets and help develop a strategy for reducing emissions. The research, with Universities UK and GuildHE, will consider issues such as the types of carbon that should be included, and how recent increases in the size of the sector can be taken into account.

The work will include the development of guidance for institutions on preparing carbon plans; this guidance is due to be published in summer 2009.

Performance in reducing carbon emissions will influence capital allocations from 2011. HEFCE will adapt its Capital Investment Framework so that institutions can be assessed by mid-2010; more information will be provided on this in due course.

View the HEFCE report to the Secretary of State

More on HEFCE's work on sustainable development

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