Sustainability Fund
The Sustainability Fund supports our efforts to reach carbon net zero and a biodiversity net gain by 2030 at the latest.
Already we are taking immediate actions on quick wins, such as reducing unnecessary food packaging and working to scale back and offset our printed communications. We have also completed a comprehensive audit of our current emissions and biodiversity levels which gives us a baseline to work from over the next decade.
From here, we will set targets for reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions as part of a college-wide Sustainability Action Plan, with ambitious carbon targets for our existing estate, new buildings, food, energy and travel. We will also ensure that our investment policies align with sustainable and climate-conscious investment standards, and do all we can to support Oxford University’s Environmental Sustainability Strategy.
Hertford is an academic institution, which has long been a centre for research on environmental change. Over the next decade more than 250 students will study climate issues at Hertford across a range of academic disciplines, many of whom will join the ranks of our alumni who are leading efforts to respond to the climate crisis. Their education will be backed up by practical support on how to contribute as an individual. And we will continue to champion research on climate and sustainability in all its forms.
Naturally, some of our plans will require investment to bring them to fruition. The Sustainability Fund will underwrite the physical and operational improvements we need to make, whilst also providing additional resources to help all our students make a difference in tackling the climate crisis.
Read more about our commitment to carbon net zero by 2030 at the latest.