Message from the VC: Bolstering our commitment to sustainability

As you may be aware, Swinburne is a signatory to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and we have undertaken focused energy conservation initiatives to reduce our carbon footprint.

At Swinburne, commitment to sustainability remains one of our core values. It is embedded across our university and our daily operations, as we seek ways to accelerate our efforts, goals and actions to arrest climate change.

Swinburne was one of the first universities in Australia to implement a Responsible Investment Charter, which ensures environmental and social impacts are taken into account in our university's investment choices.

Swinburne recognises and acknowledges the growing scientific consensus that global temperatures are rising. Our professoriate has stated that the most recent scientific evidence shows we are already in a climate emergency.

As outlined by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, this rise in temperature demands urgent action on the part of individuals, organisations and governments to preserve our planet and way of life for future generations.

As a world-class institution committed to creating positive impact, Swinburne is well-placed to find and implement innovative solutions and lead developments across research, education and operations.

To this end, Swinburne will enhance its existing sustainability initiatives and act urgently to:

• commit to 100 per cent renewable energy procurement by 31 July 2020 and to be carbon neutral by 2025
• invest in relevant research and engagement focused on sustainability
• provide courses relevant to the environment and sustainability across curricula, campus and community programs.

Our staff and students will be central to this effort, and your feedback on these commitments and suggestions for further actions are always welcome.

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