At SEE Services, we understand that sustainability is both a challenge and an opportunity for universities. That’s why we’ve developed a new white paper that explores the state of sustainability in higher education, the key challenges institutions face, and how a structured approach can unlock financial, environmental, and reputational benefits.
Key Highlights from the White Paper
Our research, based on data from UniversitiesUK, SOS-UK, and government sources, highlights the growing momentum in sustainability efforts, but also the areas where progress is still needed:
• 96% of UK universities have now published net-zero targets – yet many still lack a clear roadmap to achieving them.
• 88% of students believe universities should actively integrate sustainability into operations, making it a key factor in institutional reputation and student attraction.
• Raising energy costs and regulatory pressures are turning sustainability from an ethical ambition into a financial imperative.
• Scope 1 & 2 carbon emissions dropped by just 0.96% in 2022/23, underscoring the need for more decisive action.
• Wastewater and fuel consumption both increased in 2022/23, signalling that operational improvements are still necessary.
• Scope 3 waste emissions reduced in 2022/23 compared to the prior year, but the number of categories reported are limited suggesting an area of improvement.
The white paper goes on to explore how the SEE Sustainability Hierarchy provides universities with a practical, results-driven framework to help:
¨ Maximize ROI through targeted sustainability investments.
¨ Reduce operational costs by improving energy efficiency and infrastructure.
¨ Ensure compliance with evolving environmental regulations.
¨ Create healthier, more sustainable campuses for students and staff.
SEE Services: Proven Expertise in University Sustainability
With years of experience in sustainability strategy, energy management, and infrastructure solutions, SEE Services partners directly with universities, estates managers, and sustainability teams to deliver tangible results. SEE Services has successfully implemented sustainability initiatives at leading institutions, including the University of Portsmouth and University of Bath.
University of Portsmouth: Cutting Energy Costs & Emissions
• Installed 2,991 LED light fittings, significantly reducing energy consumption and maintenance costs.
• Expanded EV charging infrastructure, integrating a multi-tariff system for students, staff, and the public.
• Supporting long-term carbon reduction strategies through planned and reactive fabric maintenance.
University of Bath: Future-Proofing EV Charging
• Upgraded legacy EV charging infrastructure, ensuring long-term scalability.
• Implemented real-time monitoring and public access charging capabilities to optimise usage.
• Enabled 14,000 miles of low-carbon travel and 2,800kg of CO2 reductions, equivalent to planting 46 trees.
Download the Full White Paper
For an in-depth analysis of higher education sustainability trends, key challenges, and actionable solutions, download our full white paper today.
Want to take the next step in your university’s sustainability journey? Get in touch with SEE Services to explore how we can help.
Call us: 0208 502 6900 | Email us: enquiry@see-services.com