SUSTAINABLE UNIVERSITIES: UNSW LEADS THE WAY

As Australia's leading environmental university the University of New South Wales will host the launch of the National Union of Students Sustainable Universities campaign on 26 September.

"UNSW is recognised as leading the way in Australian campus greening. We have much to share with other universities in terms of show-casing our environmental initiatives," said Danielle Cole from the UNSW Green Office Program.

The campaign is a collaboration between students, academics, university staff and environment organisations. It aims to help all Australian Universities conduct themselves in an environmentally sustainable and ethical manner.

The launch, which is being organised by UNSW students, will be attended by environmental managers from universities around Australia, students, staff and members of the public interested in finding out more about campus greening efforts. Those attending will be taken on tours of UNSW's environmental programs, including the Ecoliving Program with and its permaculture garden, the composting facility , the Green Office Program and Thoughtful Foods, the University's food co-operative.

The event will begin at 12:30 on Wednesday 26 September with speeches by Lee Rhiannon, Green's representative in the NSW Legislative Council, Peter Zakrzewski, the National Union of Students Environment Officer and Crystal Condous, UNSW Registrar.

The launch coincides with the Inaugural National Conference of Sustainable Campuses which will be held in Sydney from 26 to 28 September. The conference will allow environmental management staff at Australian universities to meet together for the first time.

CONTACT DETAILS: Gemma Smart, UNSW Environment Collective, 0402 146 182, Danielle Cole, UNSW Green Office, tel. 9385 4914 or Victoria Collins, Public Affairs and Development, tel. 9385 3644.