Southampton Solent University has achieved its highest ever score in the national Green League 2013, which assesses the environmental and ethical performance of universities across the UK.

The People & Planet Green League 2013 scores a total of 143 universities on their actions and attitudes towards green living, and this year Solent has climbed 23 places to rank at number 61.

The university has significantly improved its green credentials in recent years. It now purchases all of its electricity from renewable sources, and has implemented an environmental management system and a sustainable food policy with caterers Sodexo.

Solent now recycles over 50 per cent of its total waste, and water consumption has been reduced by a new metering system to improve detection of water leaks.

Staff and student engagement has once again been excellent, with initiatives – including the Student Switch Off, Green Week and Sustainable Travel campaigns – all proving big successes.

Solent’s environmental and sustainability manager, Martin Walton, said: “The university has continued to make excellent progress with environmental initiatives, reflected in the 2:1 class award in the Green League 2013. Staff and students have a real interest in the way we can improve our environment, and this has had a very positive effect in moving forward initiatives at every level of the university.”