Meeting HE carbon targets EAUC Annual Conference 23 March 2010 Joanna Simpson Senior Policy Adviser

Developed in partnership with UUK and GuildHE Carbon reduction research by SQW Consultation Two consultation seminars – September consultation responses Published January 2010 Carbon reduction strategy

Challenging targets for sector and society 34% by 2020 and 80% by 2050 against a 1990 baseline (scope 1 and 2 emissions) will require commitment, creativity and innovation development of scenarios Support from HEFCE, UUK and GuildHE ‘Leading sustainable development in higher education’ Carbon reduction strategy

Scope 3 emissions Funding incentives Revolving Green Fund Capital funding will be linked to carbon performance Other government grants Monitoring, reporting and evaluation Carbon reduction strategy

What does it mean for English HEIs? Requirement for institutions to set their own targets and develop carbon management plans Based on own circumstances and ambitions Linking capital funding to carbon performance through the Capital Investment Framework More specific and demanding requirements in relation to carbon New metrics on carbon emissions relative to income, student & staff numbers Institutions to report progress in implementing carbon management plans and on results achieved Changes to the financial memorandum

Higher Ambitions – the future of universities in a knowledge economy Policy directions ‘Acting as an important agent in the transition to a low carbon economy, both by setting their own ambitious strategies for decarbonisation and also by acting as a source of public debate, engagement and leadership on climate change’ Higher Ambitions

Skills for Growth Climate Change Act HE sector carbon budgets UK Low Carbon Transition Plan ‘necessary transition to low carbon, right for climate change, energy security and jobs’ Ed Miliband Review of higher education and student finance Policy directions

The financial challenge Current position Real terms growth in HE funding Variable fees Reduction in capital funding for 2010/11 New position Reduced spending Financial implications of legislation Future capital funding? Response Working together to make case for investment Tough choices Invest-to-save New balance of public, student and employer funding

Impact Universities leading on major societal challenges – climate change, energy, food and water security Autonomous institutions with a strong commitment to excellence in learning, research and knowledge exchange Contributing to economic recovery and future growth Universities in their communities

Joanna Simpson