Edinburgh College’s green credentials have been recognised at Scotland’s largest celebration of College achievements this week.

The College’s Sustainability team picked up the Sustainability Award at the College Development Network (CDN) Awards Ceremony held at the Radisson Blu in Glasgow last night (Thursday 25 October).

The award celebrates the leadership and impact in sustainability the College has demonstrated throughout academic year 2017/18.

During that time the College has made major strides on its sustainable journey – from excelling in CO2 reduction to embedding sustainability in the curriculum. Various projects have had a dramatic effect, resulting in the College’s most sustainable year yet.

Successes include exceeding CO2 reduction target three years early, a 28% reduction was achieved by 2017 – the target was 18% by 2020. The College’s Sustainable Steering Group also completed the development of a Sustainable Education Strategy to ensure sustainability is embedded across the curriculum.

In addition, work continued on the development of two Community Gardens in partnership with local organisations, while Climate Challenge Funding to support future eco-travel initiatives was secured in partnership with the Edinburgh College Development Trust, Edinburgh College Students’ Association and the Scottish Government.

The College also became one of the first FE institutions to receive the Fairtrade College Award given by the National Union of Students (NUS).

In addition to winning the Sustainability honour, the College’s Creative Industries team was highly commended in the Employer Connections category following innovative work aimed at bringing students, pupils, educators and employers together to support young people from the beginning of their education, ensuring they’re ready to meet employer needs across Graphic Design and Broadcast Media.

HNC Legal Services student Sarah Cameron was also commended on the night. Sarah was shortlisted in the Student of the Year category after showing drive and determination through challenging times, excelling in her studies throughout last year. Sarah is now on track to fulfil her lifelong dream of becoming a lawyer.

Principal Audrey Cumberford said: “Everyone at the College is delighted to have won another CDN Award, it highlights the innovative work that goes on at Edinburgh College and the importance we place on working with our business partners to ensure our students are exposed to professional and vocational education that is intertwined with work experience and live industry projects.

“Congratulations to staff and students who have worked tirelessly to make our College more sustainable, this award is fully deserved and they should feel very proud their fantastic work this year has been recognised.

“Congratulations also go to our Creative Industries team and to Sarah Cameron, our Student of the Year nominee. To be shortlisted in these awards is a massive achievement, but to be highly commended is fantastic and shows the drive and determination our students and staff have to succeed – I’m very proud of everyone involved.”