Benefits for University
University institutional benefits
These range from a more efficient organisation and streamlined management in areas such as energy and waste, to feeling the added benefits of being recognised as a pioneer in university sustainability. As an example, in the UK the Green Gown Awards have been awarded to Transition Universities, attracting funding, staff, and students. University engagement targets based on student satisfaction are also more readily reached.
University business case
Having a Transition University makes financial sense to a university as the practical projects often manifest in carbon, energy, and money savings for the institution. This can secure important buy‐in from the Principal’s/President's/Rector's Office and the Estates/Facilities Management teams.
Academic research opportunities
A Transition University can be a platform where critical reflection interacts with practical implementation ‐ providing exciting possibilities for researchers interested in sustainability.
It also gives potential inspiration and opportunity to students wishing to delve deeper into or write dissertations on sustainability topics. This can contribute to getting buy‐in from senior level academics but also makes Transition Universities rich ground for new thinking as well
as practice.
Linking academic research and local practical action are a vital part of what Transition University of St Andrews aims to achieve. Photo: Transition University of St Andrews.