Sustainable Energy Use

At Worcester Students' Union, we are committed to creating a sustainable community by promoting responsible energy use. Energy is vital for daily life, but we must use it safely, fairly, and equitably to protect our environment and future generations.

Why is Energy Important?

Energy powers every aspect of modern life—from heating our homes to supporting industries, transportation, and communication systems. While the UK benefits from reliable energy access, globally, many people still lack it.

• Access to Energy: Over 800 million people worldwide still lack reliable electricity.
• Energy Poverty: 1 in 7 people globally face energy poverty, struggling to afford or access energy.
• Climate Change: The burning of fossil fuels for energy is a major driver of global warming and environmental degradation.

Find out more about global energy.

Benefits of Saving Energy

• Reduces Carbon Emissions: Saving energy reduces the need for fossil fuels, helping to lower greenhouse gas emissions and fight climate change. You can take part in free carbon literacy training by signing up.
• Conserves Natural Resources: Using less energy reduces the depletion of finite resources like coal, oil, and natural gas.
• Reduces Energy Bills: Energy savings lower utility costs for individuals, businesses, and households.
• Promotes Social Equity: Efficient energy use can help ensure fair access to energy, especially for those in disadvantaged communities.
• Protects Ecosystems: Reducing energy consumption minimises the environmental damage caused by resource extraction and energy production.

Ways to Save Energy and Protect the Environment

Here are simple steps university students can take to save energy and contribute to a more sustainable future:

1. Switch to LED Bulbs: LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs. Check your property for LED bulbs and read our housing guide for tips on requesting them from your landlord.
2. Unplug Devices: Turn off electronics when not in use, especially high-energy devices like computers, printers, and chargers.
3. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances: Choose appliances with high energy ratings (A+ or higher) to cut down on energy consumption. Learn how to check appliance energy ratings.
4. Adjust Thermostat Settings: Lower your thermostat in winter and raise it in summer. Small changes can have a big impact. For tenancy details on energy use, book an appointment with our Help and Advice Service.
5. Use Natural Light: Maximise daylight and turn off lights when natural light is sufficient.
6. Insulate Your Home: Good insulation reduces the need for excessive heating or cooling. For advice on improving insulation, check our housing guide.
7. Limit Water Heating: Lower the temperature on your water heater and use energy-efficient settings when washing clothes. Learn more about saving energy during laundry.
8. Cook Efficiently: Use smaller appliances like a microwave or slow cooker, which consume less energy than an oven.
9. Opt for Public Transport or Cycling: Reducing car use saves energy and cuts your carbon footprint. Find a map of sustainable transport options between campuses here.
10. Report Energy Issues: If you notice problems with energy usage, like poor insulation or heating issues, report them to your landlord or university. See our housing guide for advice on reporting.

Get Involved

We can all make a difference. Here’s how you can help promote sustainable energy use:

• Stay Informed: Follow our sustainability efforts on social media and stay updated through our weekly student email. Check out the university’s sustainability blog, Sus Things Out, to see what they're doing to save energy on campus.
• Visit the Sustainability Hub: Located in the Thomas Telford Building, St John’s Campus. The hub offers resources and tips for saving energy in daily life. Open daily from 7 am to 10 pm.
• Share Your Ideas: Have a great idea for saving energy? Submit it to our Ideas Forum and help us make a bigger impact.

By working together, we can ensure that energy remains a sustainable and equitable resource for all. To find out more about what your Students' Union is doing to support sustainability, email susustainability@worc.ac.uk.