TEAM Energy’s latest Customer Spotlight features Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) and Simon Chubb, Head of Sustainability, sharing valuable insights into integrating net zero across university life.
This feature delves into ARU’s holistic approach to sustainability, spanning operations, education, and community outreach, and provides actionable guidance for organisations pursuing their own net zero goals.
Pioneering Sustainability in Higher Education
ARU is leading the charge in the UK’s transition to net zero, guided by its mission to improve lives through innovation and accountability.
Simon Chubb notes:
“Achieving net zero is deeply aligned with Anglia Ruskin University’s mission to transform lives through innovative and entrepreneurial education and research. Our core values, including innovation, responsibility, and community, are reflected in our commitment to sustainability. We see it as our responsibility not only to our students, but also to the communities we serve and future generations.”
Key Initiatives and Milestones
Zero Carbon Electricity:
Anglian Ruskin has eliminated Scope 2 emissions through a strategic power purchase agreement. This includes sourcing 20% of its base load from wind energy and the remainder from nuclear, resulting in a fully zero carbon electricity supply.
Infrastructure Decarbonisation:
The university is investing in district heating systems and smart building technologies, aiming to achieve zero carbon Scope 1 emissions by 2035. These upgrades are part of a decade long plan to modernise over 75 campus buildings.
Scope 3 Emissions Strategy:
ARU is working toward net zero Scope 3 emissions by 2045. A university wide travel management system is helping monitor and reduce emissions from academic and business travel.
Empowering the ARU Community
The award-winning ARU Green programme exemplifies successful engagement. It motivates students, staff, and stakeholders to take weekly sustainable actions, like conserving energy and opting for low-carbon travel. The initiative has logged 40,000–50,000 actions annually, cutting around 100 tonnes of carbon each year.
Navigating Challenges Through Innovation
Despite setbacks such as reduced government funding and rising energy costs, ARU has remained resilient. The university has prioritised scalable, practical investments and built strategic partnerships, such as joint energy agreements and public sector frameworks, to mitigate risk and access support.
Guidance for Other Organisations
Simon Chubb offers this advice to those starting their net zero journey:
“Collaboration is key. No institution can do this alone. Sharing knowledge, resources, and support has been essential. Accept that the journey won’t be perfectly mapped out. What matters is knowing your direction of travel and committing to it. Be flexible, stay focused, and build momentum through achievable steps. That’s how we’ve made progress, and how others can too.”
Learn More
Read the full interview with Simon Chubb to learn how ARU is making net zero a reality and inspiring change across the sector.
Anglia Ruskin University: Sustainability across operations and education
