New sustainability projects announced

Otago Polytechnic has selected four innovative projects as the inaugural recipients of a new sustainability initiative.

The four projects comprise: biodiversity planting around He Toki Ka Te Rika; the purchase of an E-bike to add to our fleet of vehicles; recycling 3-D printer waste (from our organisation as well as other businesses); and an educational project focusing on responsible waste separation and organic recycling. 

Earlier this year, Otago Polytechnic invited kaimahi to submit project ideas that make a positive contribution to local sustainability, relating to three key areas: reducing waste, reducing transport emissions, and enhancing biodiversity.

The panel that reviewed the applications comprised Ross McDonald, Director Sustainability, alongside leadership team members Chris Williamson, Caroline Terpstra and Shaun Tahau.

“The awards – comprising $2500 for each project – are funded by the flight levy that we charge departments when their kaimahi fly,” Ross explains. “This amount was roughly equivalent to the carbon-off-setting fees charged by airlines.”

“This year, we decided to divert these monies to fund projects that connect to the community and push sustainability forward.

“We know that there are many people here at Otago Polytechnic who are well-connected to a huge range of good causes and are committed to lightening our burden on the planet.”