University wins `Britain In Bloom' Environment Award

Published On Thu 22 Oct 2015 by Roddy Isles

The University of Dundee has earned a `Britain In Bloom’ Environment Award, helping the city to win the overall City Category for 2015.

The University’s award came in recognition of its work in recycling and sustainability.

Trudy Cunningham, Environment & Sustainability Officer at the University, said, “This is fantastic news and great recognition for the efforts the University has made over the past few years to improve our environmental sustainability. We work extremely hard to conserve energy and reduce waste and we source locally and responsibly wherever possible.

“We have an increasing recycling rate, currently recycling approximately 70 per cent of waste, and over the past year we have created five new external recycling points. Ten per cent of our staff cycle to work and we have increased cycle parking by more than 500 per cent, while the University’s vehicle fleet is now over 40 per cent electric.

“The campus is also home to 1000 trees, two wildflower areas and an orchard. It is something we take very seriously as we know we can make a significant difference. To be rewarded for that and collect a Britain In Bloom award is a real boost!”

Dundee took home the overall City Category at this year’s awards. It had been in the running alongside Norwich and Oxford.

Judges also gave Dundee a Silver Gilt Award and noted that the quality of green spaces in the city were exceptional and well maintained.

Dundee City Council environment convener Councillor Craig Melville said, “It is a tremendous honour for Dundee to have been invited to represent Scotland in the City category of the Britain in Bloom final.

“Many months of work went into Dundee’s entry and I would particularly like to thank all the staff and partners that have been involved. We are delighted that these efforts have been recognised with this prestigious award.”

Dundee City Council and local residents worked hard in preparation for these awards. The council has an ongoing campaign to motivate city residents to help in the effort to prevent litter, dog fouling, chewing gum, fly-tipping and graffiti from blighting neighbourhoods.

Take Pride in Your City is designed to maintain and improve the city’s record for cleanliness, and persuade people to support positive behaviour to enhance the city’s green reputation.

More information on Take Pride in Your City can be found at www.dundeecity.gov.uk/takepridedundee

For media enquiries contact:
Roddy Isles
Head of Corporate Communications
University of Dundee
Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4HN
Tel: +44 (0)1382 384910
Mobile: 07800 581902
Email: r.isles@dundee.ac.uk