The University took part in the WWF’s Earth Hour on 24 March at 8:30pm. We were the largest organisation in Sheffield that participated, joining millions of people and organisations across the world that took part in the event. For the hour, we switched off our iconic SHU Logo on Owen building, one of the 400 UK landmarks to do so, as well as our Charles Street illuminated panels.
Our efforts for Earth Hour linked in with the University’s current ‘Think, Act, Save’ energy saving behaviour change campaign, highlighting that we can all help by making small changes to benefit the planet.
Did you know? Around 30% of our overall electricity consumption happens overnight and at weekends including unused equipment left on. With this in mind, our #PromiseforthePlanet is that these lights will now be switched off from midnight every night as our long term Earth Hour commitment.
By making this small change, each of the two Owen logo lights that will be switched off each evening will save 1460 hours over a year which will ultimately reduce the University’s environmental impact. We are proud to be making this statement and we are always trying to improve our sustainability credentials; see our latest Environmental Report to find out more. It still is not too late for you to make your own ‘Promise for the Planet,’ more details can be found on the WWF website.