UiA's campuses in Kristiansand and Grimstad have now been certified by the Eco-Lighthouse Foundation. The certification requires that we conduct environmental surveys and implement sustainable practices.
"This is a fantastic milestone for the university. We’ve been working hard to improve our sustainability practices, and this certification gives us a good framework to build upon," says Hellang.
Read more about the Eco-Lighthouse Foundation by following this link.
The Student Organization in Agder (STA) has played an instrumental role in advancing climate and environmental initiatives at the university. They are pleased with the work UiA has done and will continue to do.
"This is something all UiA students can take pride in. They have spurred the university to take specific actions for the environment. The university has clearly taken student concerns seriously as they now receive this certification," says STA President Magnus Ellefsen Moe.
“New perspectives”
The Eco-Lighthouse Foundation was established in 2003 by labour organisations such as VIRKE, LO, NHO, and KS, as well as Innovation Norway, several county authorities, and municipalities. The foundation aims to help businesses and organisations improve their practices in areas such as work environment, waste management, energy consumption, procurement, and transportation.
"Being part of the certification process has been interesting. We've gained new perspectives on our university operations and identified specific areas where we can make improvements," says Environmental Adviser Katharina Reionn Bjørnestøl.
Recertification in three years
Both campuses and all faculty buildings, as well as the Teacher Education Unit, have now been certified. This was done to ensure the entire university takes greater ownership of its sustainability efforts.
"Now we have specific goals to meet for our recertification in three years. We also have an annual meeting with the certifier and regular reporting. This external oversight helps us stay on track," says Bjørnestøl.