La Trobe University’s unwavering commitment to sustainability has been rewarded by the Green Building Council of Australia, with the institution’s Melbourne (Bundoora) campus recertified 6 Stars under the Green Star Communities rating tool.
Initially awarded the rating in 2017, the recertification underpins La Trobe’s desire to address a number of environmental and social issues. Sustainable waste and water management, sustainable buildings, net zero emissions and Indigenous landscapes feature amongst La Trobe’s Melbourne and regional campuses.
"The development and implementation of green technologies, sustainable construction methods and engagement with community ensured La Trobe once again achieved this important certification," says La Trobe’s Acting Vice Chancellor Susan Dodds.
"7500 solar panels, electric vehicle charging stations and use of environmentally friendly building materials are just some of the initiatives that are contributing to the University saving hundreds of thousands of kilograms of greenhouse gases each year while powering La Trobe’s Melbourne campus in Bundoora.
"These initiatives all underpin a healthier, more resilient and community-orientated experience for our staff, students and communities.”
Reassessment of 6 Star Green Star certified communities occur every five years. La Trobe has an ambitious plan to be Net Zero by 2029, with all four of its regional campuses having already achieved that goal.
La Trobe has established itself as a global leader in sustainability through various key initiatives, including the installation of over 7,500 solar panels across 25 buildings, a commitment to eco-friendly construction materials and the installation of EV chargers on campus.
They've additionally implemented innovative technologies like the La Trobe Energy Analytics Platform to optimise energy consumption and introduced an onsite composting unit to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. La Trobe’s holistic approach encompasses plans for climate adaptation and community resilience, enhancing biodiversity, and mitigating the heat island effect through strategic tree planting and permeable open spaces.
