College recognised at green awards

Derby College Group is celebrating after being highly commended at awards which recognise its green credentials.

The college was highly commended in the 2030 Climate Action category at the Green Gown Awards for its ‘Coal to the Atmosphere’s Soul’ decarbonisation project.

Launched in 2022 at its Broomfield Hall campus, the initiative replaced three coal-fired boilers with six air source heat pumps and three water source heat pumps to power its district heating and hot water systems.

Additional improvements, such as upgraded insulation, new windows, PV panels, and LED lighting, have reduced carbon emissions and moved the college closer to its net-zero goals.

Heather Kelly, deputy chief executive at Derby College Group, said: “Winning this Green Gown Award is a testament to our estates team’s continuous efforts to enhance sustainability across our campuses and to achieve our Net Zero 2050 target.

“The work that has earned this award validates Derby College Group’s efforts to incorporate environmental stewardship into every aspect of college operations.”

At the same awards, the college was also a finalist in the Creating Impact category for the Equine Carbon Calculator.