Environmental Strategy As part of the strategic objectives and aims outlined in the Strategic Plan the College aims to ensure financial strength through relentless review and upgrade of risk management, value for money, sustainability and investment appraisal. College targets for the year include environmental requirements include reducing the carbon footprint by 2% in 2015/16 and ensuring 0% of waste is sent to land fill. This environmental policy incorporates the following: Aims and Objectives Carbon Management Scheme Green Travel Plan Environmental Plan College targets Risk Assessment Introduction Halesowen College recognises the importance of environmental development and the crucial role environmental performance has in achieving sustainability. Therefore the College has developed an environmental strategy. Climate change is one of the most significant challenges facing all organisations with carbon dioxide one of the main contributing causes. Halesowen College recognises the scale and speed of climate change, and its potential adverse effect on the economy, environment and local community. Therefore as a College operating within the heart of the West Midlands Halesowen College aims to develop a Carbon Management Plan. The College has already started to meet the targets of reducing CO2 emissions over the coming years and has ensured all recent capital schemes have had a positive impact on the environment. As defined in the Strategic Plan the College is committed to developing sustainable practices that will continue to demonstrate the commitment to reduce carbon emissions and remain efficient and effective in all operations. Aims and Objectives The overarching aims and objectives are as follows: Reduce carbon emissions by at least 10% by 2020 ( college target 2% in 2015/16) Maintain the amount of waste sent to landfill at 0% Develop links with the carbon trust and launch a formal carbon management plan Implement the programme of LED lighting Convert all IT hardware to environmentally positive kit Reduce paper consumption by 20% by the development of digital systems Explore environmental accreditation Further educate staff and students thus raising the profile of the environmental agenda JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 1 of 30 Improve building efficiency Increase biodiversity on the site Reconsider alternative sources of energy Promote and develop green travel Carbon Management Scheme This Carbon Management Plan sets out the College’s strategy and action plan for reducing carbon emissions over the next five years. It identifies the tangible and intangible benefits of Carbon Management and describes the management and governance arrangements to keep the programme on track. The College has already implemented many successful environmental initiatives and wishes to continue to build on this success. Wider Case for Action There is a range of reasons for the College to take action on carbon. These include: Legislative compliance Energy cost savings Corporate social responsibility Ofsted reporting Community partnerships It will encourage resource efficiency and therefore direct cost savings by reducing energy consumption and harmful greenhouse gas emissions. Current Position The tabular and graphical presentations below demonstrate the College’s current position and trend for usage. Combined Totals as at May (Period 10) 2010/11 2,535,027 1,372,920 7,667 2011/12 2,402,869 1,488,433 10,045 2012/13 2,900,457 1,532,234 13,563 2013/14 2,289,863 1,427,422 8,227 2014/15 2,948,708 1,661,796 5,538 Change Year-on-Year Gas -423,274 Electricity -66,653 Water -4,152 -132,158 115,513 2,378 497,588 43,801 3,518 -610,595 -104,812 -5,336 658,845 234,374 2,689 % Change Year-on-Year Gas -14.31 Electricity -4.63 Water -35.13 -5.21 8.41 31.02 20.71 2.94 35.02 -21.05 -6.84 -39.34 28.77 16.42 -32.69 Gas Electricity Water JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) Average 2,615,384 1,496,561 9,008 page 2 of 30 Gas Usage Year on Year 3,500,000 3,000,000 2,500,000 kwh 2,000,000 1,500,000 1,000,000 500,000 0 07/08 08/09 09/10 10/11 11/12 12/13 13/14 14/15 Year kwh Electricity Usage Year on Year 2,000,000 1,800,000 1,600,000 1,400,000 1,200,000 1,000,000 800,000 600,000 400,000 200,000 0 07/08 08/09 09/10 10/11 11/12 12/13 13/14 14/15 Year JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 3 of 30 Water Usage Year on Year Cubic Meters 18,000 16,000 14,000 12,000 10,000 8,000 6,000 4,000 2,000 0 07/08 08/09 09/10 10/11 11/12 12/13 13/14 14/15 Year Gas Usage 800,000 700,000 600,000 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 Units (kwh) 500,000 400,000 300,000 200,000 100,000 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Month JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 4 of 30 Electricity Usage 250,000 200,000 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 Units (kwh) 150,000 100,000 50,000 - 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Month 9 10 11 12 Water Usage 2,500 Units (cubic meters) 2,000 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 1,500 1,000 500 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Month The graph considers the overall usage in the period. The changes to the College estate must be considered in making meaningful comparisons. In 2014/15 blocks 11 and 12 were commissioned alongside the flood lights on the all-weather pitch. Although the College has already taken some positive steps if no further action is taken emissions are likely to increase over time, as activities become more energy intensive. The property strategy is coterminous with the objectives of the carbon management scheme and will be reduced by: JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 5 of 30 development of green travel priorities; replacement of boilers; environmental evaluation of capital projects and use of alternatives to air cooling such as passivent replacement of windows at Whittingham LED lighting consideration of alternative energy sources More informative meter statistics are required in order to evaluate environmental schemes. Halesowen College Vision for Carbon Reduction The College has taken action and compares favourably with benchmarks, for example eMandate. An ambitious reduction target, supported by projections from the completion of the current property strategy has been set: Halesowen College will reduce the carbon emissions from its activities by at least 10% by 2020 Environmentally positive schemes in 2014/15 include: LED lighting in blocks 1, 2, 4 and 5 New boilers at Shenstone House, block 8 and Coombs Wood Replacement windows at Shenstone House New green travel survey Car lease scheme for staff offering incentives for choosing more energy efficient models Carbon Reduction Projects Carbon reduction projects and activities: Good housekeeping – improving metering and campaigns to change student and staff behaviour; Invest-to-save projects, such as LED lighting replacement, increased installation of motion detectors and improving insulation, etc; Energy efficient IT kit; Exploring alternative energy options Replacement of windows during refurbishment at Whittingham Road; Whilst these projects have the potential to reduce emissions in excess of the target, this will be carefully monitored to ensure compliance. The College will work with local stakeholders to identify and implement best practice solutions. JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 6 of 30 Projections and Risks To implement the projects defined in this plan most budgets have already been allocated. The College is seeking Carbon Trust grants to support the costs of LED lighting and boiler replacement. Ownership of Plan and Reporting To deliver this plan, a team has been established to ensure successful implementation. This includes: Director of Finance and Corporate Services Estates Manager Customer Services Manager Central Operations Manager Teacher Development Manager Organisational Development Manager Technical Resources Manager Business Development Director Progress against this plan will be reviewed annually and a report will be provided to the College Executive/Senior Management Team. Key themes will be reported to the Corporation and publicised on the staff hub/website. The College plans to develop its links with the Carbon Trust and explore working towards an appropriate award/accreditation. JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 7 of 30 Green Travel Plan Objectives The objective of this Travel Plan is to set out targets for traffic reduction to all sites as well as realistic actions as to how these will be achieved. The solutions include encouraging cycling and walking and promoting a public transport alternative to further reduce single car occupancy use within the College for staff and students. The objectives of this Travel Plan are: To adopt and support Central and Local Government initiatives on green transport issues; To help change the attitudes of staff, students and visitors about the options for the way they travel; To provide information on alternative means of transport, thus trying to reduce reliance on car usage; To conduct travel surveys, to understand travel patterns and attitudes; To establish, monitor and review targets to promote sustainable travel for all employees, students and visitors; To ensure compliance with all appropriate legislation and conditions of planning. The College actively seeks the opinions of all students and staff on travel and transport issues. Focus groups are held to explore advantages and disadvantages of various opinions in detail. Feedback is useful and incorporated into travel plans and targets for the future. In terms of the student focus groups, there is participation from a wide range of students including those studying an A level and vocational programmes. Also students at all levels are involved and the focus groups ensure inclusion from ethnic groups, students with disabilities and from various backgrounds. Moreover, staff groups include teaching and business support staff at all levels. In order to gather data about travel options, the College has surveyed the staff and students and undertaken travel audits of cycle and walking routes. Background (including location and travel issues) Halesowen College is a tertiary College based in Halesowen. The College has three campuses; one at Whittingham Road, Halesowen, B63 3NA, a Business Centre on the Coombs Wood Industrial Park, Halesowen, B63 8BB, and Shenstone House, a former office block near the centre of Halesowen B63 3NT. The College’s mission is to be the leading choice for post 16 education and training. There is an extensive range of high quality provision including A level, vocational programmes, higher education and apprenticeships to students aged 14-25. This Travel Plan is applicable for all of the sites but may be tailored in part to suit the needs of each individual site. It reflects the requirements of the former Learning and Skills Strategy document, ‘From Here to Sustainability’ and other best environmental and sustainable practice. In terms of staff profile the College’s staff base has remained fairly stable over the last few years. However, Halesowen College is a popular choice with students and has built up a reputation as an excellent post 16 option. Despite increased competition and a declining JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 8 of 30 demographic the College has sustained 16-18 student numbers over the last few years although the number of 16 year olds has declined. Maintaining this level of enrolment will be challenging for the College. The College currently employs around 550 staff on full time, fractional and sessional contracts. The critical mass, some 380 staff, are based at Whittingham Road. With regard to students the College operates a timetable which means that no more than approximately 80% of its students attend on a given day. The campus with the highest levels of students attending is Whittingham Road with up to 2,750 students anticipated to attend daily. Alternative timetable options have been explored to further improve room utilisation and efficiency. Capital Developments The College has embarked on a programme of capital development based at the Whittingham Road campus. Block 13, comprising teaching accommodation and specialist performance space is due for completion in September 2016. Planning permission was granted for this development in May 2015. Planning Consent As stated above the College was granted permission by Dudley MBC for the development. Subject to several conditions including: Prior to commencement of the development hereby approved an updated travel plan shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority, including details of a Travel Plan co-ordinator, staff Travel Survey, Car Parking Management, Walking and Cycling initiatives, set targets and monitoring and to join company Travel wise in Dudley together with a timetable for the implementation of each such element. The Travel Pan shall be updated each year and implemented in accordance with the details approved by the Local Planning Authority and remain operational for the life of the development Travel Issues for Students and Staff Travel issues for staff and students at Halesowen College are summarised in the table below Advantages Disadvantages WALKING A good way of keeping healthy and improving fitness No costs involved Flexible Reduces carbon emissions/pollution and is environmentally sound Pleasant in fine weather and enjoyable Unpleasant in inclement weather Safety concerns especially when it is dark and when using isolated roads, underpasses etc. Busy roads to cross Uneven pavements and steep hills CYCLING Excellent for fitness and exercise Fun and flexible Environmentally friendly option Cycle to Work Scheme a good incentive (staff) JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) Safety on roads Concern about damage to/ theft of bicycle Need to shower/change clothes on arrival Busy roads, islands and interchanges Cost of cycles and safety equipment page 9 of 30 BUS More positive for the environment than cars Social method of travel College bus provides a swift, reliable and punctual service which is free of charge Public routes can be expensive and infrequent Public buses perceived to be dirty with lots of litter Safety concerns on public buses Some College routes can be lengthy Stress free method of travel TRAIN Quick and efficient for longer journeys Comfortable option No train station within walking distance Expensive Concerns about safety when travelling alone CAR Independent and flexible Can share vehicles and make travel sociable Convenient and safe Expensive – especially given petrol and insurance costs Traffic pollution is a concern Traffic congestion on main roads Poor road conditions This table is culmination of notes from focus groups which are held specifically to address the issues of green travel options and students’ issues with travelling to and from College. These advantages and disadvantages were identified through discussion with students in the transport and travel focus group, and through discussion with staff. Surveys were emailed to all staff and full time students and reminders issued in tutorial time to ensure maximum participation. The travel survey was posted online using SurveyMonkey software to collect and analyse the results. Following input with experts from Dudley MBC the College amended its survey questions to gain more information from staff and students. The survey now asks about travel methods whilst at College, distance travelled from home, and also invites participants to declare whether they have a disability. In order to gain more information about travel patterns, the College has increased the minimum sample size to 15%. The results of the survey conducted in January/February 2015 have been collated and are summarised in this document. Green Travel Working Group The College has developed a Green Travel Working Group comprising: Director of Finance and Corporate Services Estates Manager Customer Services Manager Central Operations Manager Teacher Development Manager Organisational Development Manager Technical Resources Manager Business Development Director JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 10 of 30 This group meets termly to discuss and monitor progress made against the objectives of the Travel Plan and the detailed action points. The Estates Manager assisted by the Central Operations Manager act as the Travel Plan Co-ordinators. The College also engages the views of the local community and participates in residents’ forums and hosts a regular meeting of the Whittingham Road Action Group. This meeting is attended by the Principal, the Estates Manager, and the Campus Development Manager. The group has made positive comments about the impact of traffic reduction schemes. JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 11 of 30 Survey Results and Progress Survey Results 2015 Site Information Number of Staff (FT, PT and Temporary) Number of Students (Full Time 16-18) Percentage of Staff who completed the survey Percentage of Students who completed the survey 551 3967 39.33% 21.43% Whittingham Road Number of car parking spaces Number of disabled spaces Coombs Wood 315 13 Average distance of journey to college (Staff) Average distance of journey to college (Students) 5 miles+ 5 miles+ 20-29 minutes 30-39 minutes Average duration of journey to college (Staff) Average duration of journey to college (Students) Shenstone House 70 5 5 miles+ 5 miles+ 30-39 minutes Up to 1 hour 64 4 4-5 miles 5 miles+ 20-29 minutes 30-39 minutes STAFF Whittingham Road Main Method of Travel Own Car Lift from other College user Lift from non-College user College bus Other bus, train etc Motorcycle Bicycle Walk Preferred method of travel Own Car Lift from other College user Lift from non-College user College bus Other bus, train etc Motorcycle Bicycle Walk Staff Jan-10 Jan-12 73.25 57.24% May-04 85.30% Jun-06 74.00% May-08 69.10% 3.50% 0.80% 7.64% 7.24% 5.30% 0.00% 0.00% 1.87% 2.70% 1.40% 4.80% 0.00% 4.80% 0.00% 1.60% 9.70% 4.32% 0.66% 7.64% 1.00% 2.00% 10.63% 4.28% 2.96% 9.54% 1.64% 3.62% 12.17% 12.50% 3.62% 10.63% Feb-15 78.13% Target 2.68% 68.10% 4.67% 11.30% -2.37% 2.00% 12.17% -0.21% -8.15% 2.68% 1.79% 7.14% 1.34% 1.79% 4.02% Variance Staff May-08 54.35% Jan-10 57.84% Feb-15 56.70% 9.91% 9.32% 5.84% 4.20% 2.70% 3.90% 0.60% 6.61% 13.51% 3.73% 3.73% 4.10% 1.49% 4.48% 13.49% 3.74% 6.52% 7.90% 2.06% 7.22% 9.97% JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 12 of 30 Coombs Wood Staff Main Method of Travel Own Car Lift from other College user Lift from non-College user College bus Other bus, train etc Motorcycle Bicycle Walk Preferred method of travel Own Car Lift from other College user Lift from non-College user College bus Other bus, train etc Motorcycle Bicycle Walk May-04 68.00% Jun-06 89.00% May-08 63.64% Jan-10 76.92% 9.10% 0.00% 4.55% 0.00% 13.60% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 9.10% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 11.00% 0.00% 0.00% 9.09% 0.00% 13.64% 0.00% 0.00% 9.09% 0.00% 0.00% 7.69% 0.00% 7.69% 7.69% May-08 69.57% Staff Jan-10 81.82% Feb-15 75.00% 8.70% 0.00% 0.00% 4.35% 4.35% 4.35% 0.00% 0.00% 8.70% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 18.18% 0.00% 0.00% 8.33% 0.00% 0.00% 16.67% JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) Jan12 76.93 7.69% 7.69% 7.69% Feb-15 83.33% Target 0.00% 62.10% 21.23% 16.64% -8.31% 0.00% 9.09% 0.00% -9.09% 8.30% 8.33% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% Variance page 13 of 30 Shenstone House Staff Main Method of Travel Own Car Lift from other College user Lift from non-College user College bus Other bus, train etc Motorcycle Bicycle Walk Preferred method of travel Own Car Lift from other College user Lift from non-College user College bus Other bus, train etc Motorcycle Bicycle Walk May04 Jun-06 100.00% May-08 86.67% Jan-10 70.97% 0.00% 3.33% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 3.33% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 6.66% 6.45% 0.00% 9.68% 3.23% 0.00% 3.23% May-08 76.70% Staff Jan-10 74.19% Feb-15 71.43 6.66% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 3.33% 13.33% 0.00% 3.23% 0.00% 3.23% 3.23% 0.00% 3.23% 0 0 7.14 7.14 0 3.57 10.71 Jan12 87.09 9.68% 0.00% 3.23% Feb-15 91.67% Target 0.00% 85.67% 6.00% 3.00% 1.17% 0.00% 6.66% 0.00% -6.66% 0.00% 4.17% 0.00% 4.17% 0.00% 0.00% Variance Commentary and Staff Targets The target for Own Car staff usage refers to single occupancy as such the variance figure takes into account Own Car usage minus the staff who are passengers. At Whittingham Road the single car occupancy has decreased since the original survey but is rising again being 4.67% above target. The smaller staff sizes at Shenstone House and Coombs Wood make these numbers more acute. The nature of the work at Coombs Wood is largely focused on delivering higher education and apprenticeships which require staff to travel to employees to assess students in the work place. Hence the use of the vehicle as an integral part of the role which largely explains the trends at Coombs Wood. Also Coombs Wood is not easily accessible by public transport with a longer than average walk to the nearest bus stop. 29% of the staff that were surveyed at Shenstone House indicated they may be encouraged to cycle to work if they had more access to showers and changing facilities. The trend towards increase car usage at all sites may also be explained in a change in terminology and questions used. In this survey we asked what methods of transport staff use and their main form of transport. These figures follow the trends from previous years and show that staff do use alternative forms of transport but that they are not always suitable every day. JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 14 of 30 Whittingham Road Own Car Lift from other College user Lift from non-College user College bus Other bus, train etc Motorcycle Bicycle Walk Main Form of Transport 78.13% 2.68% 2.68% 1.79% 7.14% 1.34% 1.79% 4.02% All Forms of Transport 61.59% 6.88% 7.60% 1.81% 9.42% 1.44% 2.17% 9.06% Target Variance 68.10% -13.39% 11.30% -0.07% 2.00% 12.17% 0.17% -3.11% Since the last survey the College has implemented timetable changes which increase room utilisation in order to cater for the number of students and improve energy efficiency in terms of lighting, heating etc. This has impacted staff who need to travel between campuses as the break between lessons has been reduced thus preventing staff walking in some cases. JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 15 of 30 STUDENTS Whittingham Road Method of Travel Own Car Lift from other College user Lift from non-College user College bus Other bus, train etc Motorcycle Bicycle Walk Preferred method of travel Own Car Lift from other College user Lift from non-College user College bus Other bus, train etc Motorcycle Bicycle Walk May-04 14.00% Jun-06 10.00% May-08 10.07% 5.40% 10.50% 46.00% 5.70% 2.60% 1.50% 13.00% 1.70% 1.70% 48.80% 25.50% 3.40% 0.60% 6.80% 8.03% 11.75% 21.94% 34.05% 1.44% 1.08% 12.00% Students Jan-10 Jan-12 5.62% 5.26% 8.79% 39.04% 29.35% 1.09% 0.09% 9.51% 68.39% 0.09% 9.51% Feb-15 4.10% 0.56% 5.21% 70.95% 11.73% 0.37% 0.19% 6.70% Target Variance 9.07% 5.53% 58.99% 23.69% 1.08% 12.00% 0.37% -0.89% -5.30% Students May-04 22.80% Jun-06 67.00% May-08 44.18% Jan-10 23.60% Feb-15 21.59% 4.80% 9.58% 42.00% 4.80% 2.60% 1.50% 12.00% 1.10% 1.70% 14.70% 4.00% 2.80% 3.40% 4.00% 14.64% 8.14% 16.27% 8.26% 2.63% 2.13% 5.88% 4.59% 7.38% 30.54% 18.57% 1.01% 0.00% 7.49% 7.24% 14.96% 32.81% 15.56% 2.17% 0.84% 4.83% JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 16 of 30 Coombs Wood Method of Travel Own Car Lift from other College user Lift from non-College user College bus Other bus, train etc Motorcycle Bicycle Walk Preferred method of travel Own Car Lift from other College user Lift from non-College user College bus Other bus, train etc Motorcycle Bicycle Walk May-04 21.50% Jun-06 42.40% May-08 26.09% Students Jan-10 Jan-12 16.67% Feb-15 0.00% 6.30% 17.60% 23.80% 15.00% 1.30% 0.00% 15.00% 0.00% 0.00% 14.20% 28.20% 0.00% 0.00% 14.20% 4.35% 13.04% 13.04% 30.43% 4.35% 0.00% 8.70% 5.56% 22.22% 16.67% 22.22% 0.00% 0.00% 11.11% 0.00% 25.00% 50.00% 25.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% May-04 36.20% Jun-06 85.70% Students May-08 77.78% Jan-10 14.29% Feb-15 20.00% 5.00% 10.00% 20.00% 12.50% 1.30% 0.00% 15.00% 0.00% 0.00% 14.30% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 11.11% 0.00% 11.11% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 28.57% 21.43% 14.29% 0.00% 7.14% 7.14% 10.00% 10.00% 20.00% 20.00% 5.00% 5.00% 10.00% JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) 38.89% 0.00% 11.11% Target Variance 25.09% 25.09% 46.48% 28.52% 0.00% 8.70% 0.00% 0.00% -8.70% page 17 of 30 Shenstone House Students Method of Travel May04 Own Car Lift from other College user Lift from non-College user College bus Other bus, train etc Motorcycle Bicycle Walk Jun-06 28.50% May-08 6.70% Jan-10 11.98% 0.00% 9.50% 28.50% 28.50% 0.00% 0.00% 4.70% 3.08% 14.40% 10.20% 43.57% 0.00% 1.00% 21.55% 3.23% 9.22% 17.05% 40.55% 0.00% 0.46% 16.13% Jun-06 81.00% Students May-08 42.62% Jan-10 26.60% Feb-15 25.00% 4.70% 0.00% 14.30% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 7.36% 15.26% 11.03% 16.38% 0.52% 1.06% 5.77% 3.19% 11.17% 13.30% 24.47% 0.00% 0.53% 12.77% 6.94% 19.44% 18.06% 27.78% 1.39% 0.00% 1.39% May-04 Own Car Lift from other College user Lift from non-College user College bus Other bus, train etc Motorcycle Bicycle Walk Jan-12 57.60% 46.00% 16.13% Feb-15 4.44% 0.00% 11.11% 46.67% 33.33% 0.00% 0.00% 4.44% Target Variance 5.70% 1.26% 56.77% 23.23% 1.00% 21.55% 0.00% -1.00% -17.11% Commentary and Student Targets Students represent the largest group who travel to College and there has been a significant decrease in the use of private transportation to the College since the first survey in May 2004. For example at Whittingham Road private transportation has decreased from 32.5%% to 10.24% this is largely a result of the promotion and expansion of the College bus service from 46.00% to 70.95%. The College bus service is an excellent facility for students enabling them to travel to College safety and efficiently on environmentally positive transport. The College regularly reviews the routes of all College express bus services to ensure that we are meeting the needs of all students. Since 2010 five additional routes have been added; Bewdley (17 students), Selly Oak (217 students), Kings Norton (75 students), Wombourne (284 students) and Wolverhampton (44 students). Significant progress has been made against student targets. Targets in relation to student travel options have been met or exceeded for decreasing single car occupancy and increasing the use of bus services. However, cycling and walking targets have not been met which is likely due to the original targets being based on the 2004 survey before the College buses became so popular with students and the increase in student numbers from a wider catchment area. In addition the majority of students live in excess of two miles from the College hence walking is not a realistic option. JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 18 of 30 Travel between Sites Student Travel between sites (if applicable) Bicycle College bus Lift from other College user Motorcycle Other bus, train etc Own Car Walk Students Staff 0.67% 45.45% 2.88% 0.44% 5.76% 4.15% 40.80% All 0.39% 2.31% 8.85% 1.15% 0.00% 63.85% 23.08% 0.56% 29.68% 5.06% 0.70% 3.66% 26.44 34.32% The College has invested in bus transportation between sites and runs buses regularly to and from Whittingham to the other campuses. Very few students drive between sites with the majority taking the College bus or walking. 2015 Overview Main method of Travel Staff Comparison Bicycle College bus Lift from non-College user Lift from other College user Motorcycle Other bus, train etc Own Car Walk Whittingham Road 1.79% 1.79% 2.68% 2.68% 1.34% 7.14% 78.13% 4.02% Main method of Travel Student Comparison Bicycle College bus Lift from non-College user Lift from other College user Motorcycle Other bus, train etc Own Car Walk Whittingham Road 19.00% 70.95% 5.21% 0.56% 37.00% 11.73% 4.10% 6.70% All Staff and Students Bicycle College bus Lift from non-College user Lift from other College user Motorcycle Other bus, train etc Own Car Walk Whittingham Road 0.67% 50.80% 4.68% 1.20% 0.67% 11.23% 24.87% 5.88% JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) Coombs Wood 0.00% 8.33% 8.30% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 83.33% 0.00% Coombs Wood 0.00% 50.00% 25.00% 0.00% 0.00% 25.00% 0.00% 0.00% Coombs Wood 0% 25.00% 15.00% 0.00% 0.00% 10.00% 50.00% 0.00% Shenstone House 0.00% 4.17% 0.00% 0.00% 4.17% 0.00% 91.67% 0.00% Shenstone House 0.00% 46.67% 11.11% 0.00% 0.00% 33.33% 4.44% 4.44% Shenstone House 0.00% 24.64% 5.80% 0.00% 0.00% 28.99% 36.23% 4.35% All 1.54% 1.92% 3.07% 2.31% 1.54% 6.53% 79.62% 3.46% All 0.16% 68.87% 6.29% 0.47% 0.31% 13.05% 4.09% 6.45% All 0.56% 48.66% 5.58% 1.00% 0.67% 11.94% 26.00% 5.58% page 19 of 30 Staff Transport 1415 Bicycle College bus Lift from nonCollege user Lift from other College user Motorcycle Other bus, train etc Own Car Walk Student Transport 1415 Bicycle College bus Lift from non-College user Lift from other College user Motorcycle Other bus, train etc Own Car Walk All College Staff and Students 1415 Bicycle College bus Lift from nonCollege user Lift from other College user Motorcycle Other bus, train etc Own Car Walk JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 20 of 30 Staff Transport to College Comparison 95.00% 90.00% 85.00% 80.00% 75.00% 70.00% 65.00% 60.00% 55.00% 50.00% 45.00% 40.00% 35.00% 30.00% 25.00% 20.00% 15.00% 10.00% 5.00% 0.00% Bicycle College bus Lift from non- Lift from Motorcycle College user other College user Whittingham Road Coombs Wood Other bus, train etc Shenstone House Own Car Walk Own Car Walk All Student Transport to College Comparison 75.00% 70.00% 65.00% 60.00% 55.00% 50.00% 45.00% 40.00% 35.00% 30.00% 25.00% 20.00% 15.00% 10.00% 5.00% 0.00% Bicycle College bus Lift from non- Lift from Motorcycle College user other College user Whittingham Road JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) Coombs Wood Other bus, train etc Shenstone House All page 21 of 30 All College Staff and Students Transport Comparison 60.00% 55.00% 50.00% 45.00% 40.00% 35.00% 30.00% 25.00% 20.00% 15.00% 10.00% 5.00% 0.00% Bicycle College bus Lift from non- Lift from Motorcycle College user other College user Whittingham Road Coombs Wood Other bus, train etc Shenstone House Own Car Walk All Survey Results and Progress made since last Travel Plan Since the last Travel Plan was produced the College has continued to make progress in developing its approach to environmental issues, including transport. Some examples are listed below. The College has introduced the Cycle to Work Scheme which is a salary sacrifice scheme allowing staff to make savings on the cost of bicycles and associated safety equipment. The College has introduced a Fleet Car Scheme to encourage staff who do drive to use low emission vehicles and eliminate grey fleet. Students represent the largest group who travel to College and there has been a significant decrease in the use of private transportation in this group has resulted in the College achieving a reduction in car traffic overall. 26% of all College users travel using their own car of which one in five bring another College user with them. However the majority of these car users are staff. These achievements demonstrate the commitment within the College to maintaining a healthy environment. A number of the targets agreed with Dudley MBC in the last Travel Plan have been met or exceeded. The College does however acknowledge that not all targets have been met and has developed an action plan. Overall, the College has achieved a reduction in the amount of car traffic at the College sites. JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 22 of 30 Action Plan Targets Consolidate the excellent progress with student travel and ensure that as a minimum 90% of the student population use College buses, public transport, walk or cycle to College. Promote the Cycle to Work scheme to staff alongside the Car Lease Scheme and increase the number of participants by 10% by 2017. Reduce single car usage amongst the staff by 5% by 2020. Actions Increase promotion of College bus services. The College will retender the service in 2015 allowing a refreshed approach for the new academic year. All students are informed about transport options at interview and the service is promoted at Open Day and similar events. There is no charge to students who travel on the College bus and the College is committed to maintaining this despite funding cuts. A bus helpdesk will be set up throughout the enrolment and induction period to ensure that students book a place on the correct route and that there is no delay with issuing bus passes. A comprehensive review of all routes mapped against admissions data will be conducted in the autumn term. Action : Business Development Director / Director of Finance and Corporate Services / Student Experience Director The College has engaged with Dudley MBC to actively promote alternatives to single car usage and will explore the Smart Network, Smarter Choices scheme. Action : Director of Finance and Corporate Services The College organised its health and environment week to further promote healthy lifestyle and environmental responsibilities by means of exhibitions and special events. During this week everyone will be encouraged to walk, use public transport or cycle to College. This will be organised again for 2015/16 and green travel experts from Dudley MBC invited to participate in this event. Action : Student Experience Director Continue to inform students via active promotion of Centro and Travel West Midlands options. The College provides links to appropriate external websites from the intranet and provides information at the start of the year on bus routes etc. Timetables etc are available from reception and students requiring personalised travel advice can speak to Student Services for assistance. A ‘How to Get to College’ link will provide comprehensive travel advice on public transport and the College express bus service. This site will also include promotional, environmental and awareness raising information. Action : Customer Services Manager The College has developed excellent links with transport providers and aims to ensure an excellent service for students at best value. The College will conduct an OJEU advertised tender for the provision of bus services for September 2015. Action : Business Development Director / Director of Finance and Corporate Services JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 23 of 30 The College will continue to provide pedestrian training for all students with learning difficulties annually. As part of the curriculum for independent living skills students are supported as part of their programme of study to utilise public transport. In the first instance a member of College staff will travel with the students and as confidence and skills build the student will eventually be able to travel independently. Action : Curriculum Team Manager The College will repeat a safety audit by key walking and cycling routes to College and derive an appropriate action plan from the findings of this audit. Action : Director of Finance and Corporate Services / WSP The Portal, Moodle and the Staff Hub will be utilised to provide information. There will be termly updates on progress and achievements regarding the Travel Plan. To inform this there will be more regular directed surveys in addition to the formal/comprehensive Green Travel Survey. Action : IT and Systems Director Staff will be surveyed about car share options with a view to implementing a Car Share Database by end of March 2016. Discounts on car parking charges for pool cars to be promoted for September 2015. Action : Organisational Development Director Provide secure cycle storage in accordance with the recommendations made by Dudley MBC and review shower facilities. Action : Estates Manager Link with Dudley MBC to arrange cycle training for students as required. Action : Student Experience Director Promote the Cycle to Work Scheme on the Staff Hub. Action : Senior Personnel Officer Join Company TravelWise in Dudley Company TravelWise offers the College advice on reducing employee car usage to travel to and from work and also whilst at work. There are also benefits for employees, for example when switching to public transport employees can qualify for a 50% discount on a travel pass. In accordance with the Travel Plan resource pack for employers, the College’s annual timetable for Company TravelWise is as follows: Agree survey questions Jan 2015 Director of Finance and Corporate Services Conduct travel survey and hold focus groups Feb 2015 Health and Safety Manager Collate results of travel survey April 2015 Health and Safety Manager Revise Travel Plan July 2015 Director of Finance and Corporate Services JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 24 of 30 Monitor existing targets against survey Nov 2015 Director of Finance and Corporate Services Set revised targets Nov 2015 Director of Finance and Corporate Services Travel Plan reconsidered and approved by College Executive Jan 2016 Director of Finance and Corporate Services Promotion of plan on Staff Hub and Moodle Jan 2016 Web team Transport links audit conducted June 2016 Health and Safety Manager Walking and Cycling Audit June 2016 WSP Produce publicity material July 2016 Central Operations Manager Publicise successes on Moodle/Staff Hub Sept 2016 Central Operations Manager Termly monitoring of plan Environmental Group Review bicycle storage July 2016 Estates Manager Review Reviewed/Approved Updated by By Jacquie Carman JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) Date 29.10.15 page 25 of 30 Appendix 1 Halesowen College Car Park Management Strategy Halesowen College has three sites with Car Parks with the following capacities Whittingham Road Car Park A Car Park B Car Park C Coombs Wood Shenstone House Spaces Disabled Spaces 197 12 106 315 70 70 8 7 15 6 5 The Car Park at Coombs Wood is shared by staff and students. The Car Park at Shenstone House is staff only with car park passes issued to users. A car park attendant controls entry. Staff are charged the same annual rate for the car park as detailed below for Whittingham Road. The Car Parks at Whittingham Road are operated as follows: Car Park A – barrier controlled (intercom for visitors and deliveries) with security monitoring access during peak entry times in the morning. Available to staff and students living more than 1.5 miles away who are not on a College bus route, on payment of £25 per annum for a pass. Car Park B – barrier controlled. Available to College Executive and Senior Staff on payment of £75.00 per annum. Car Park C – barrier controlled (intercom for visitors and deliveries). Available to staff on payment of £75.00 per annum for a pass. Note; across the road from the Whittingham Road Campus is a public car park with 28 spaces. The College has offered staff the option of spreading the costs of parking across three pay periods to encourage use of College facilities. Unless there is a mobility requirements students are not allowed to park cars and are encouraged to use free college transport services. Discounts on car parking charges will be offered to approved pool cars. Objectives The College aims to provide adequate car parking for staff and visitors in order that unlawful car parking is not a problem within the surrounding area. The car parks must be adequately maintained. However, the College levies a charge on staff and students for parking. Both staff and students are encouraged to explore other, more environmentally friendly transport options. The College provides a free express bus service to all students and staff are able to utilize this facility also. There is a finite number of passes issued to staff for car parks B and C at Whittingham Road and the car park at Shenstone House. Any member of staff can purchase a car parking permit for access to car park A at Whittingham Road. However the purchase of a car parking pass does not entitle the member of staff to a car parking space. No spaces are reserved for named individuals. JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 26 of 30 Environmental Plan 2015/16 Key Aim Associated Risks Provide a well-resourced, pleasant and safe working environment creating a culture where staff are fully engaged and provide an outstanding service for students 9.2 9.5 13.3 Targets 2015 Adopt Carbon Trust best practice recommendations for energy renewal and workplace environmental standards. Thorough review of Building Maintenance System to preserve energy and ensure all buildings are appropriately heated and cooled Gain Carbon Trust accreditation Additional trees and shrubs planted to provide a more attractive environment and offset carbon emissions Discharge biodiversity targets linked to block 13 Promote a sustainable environment 12.3 13.2 13.3 13.4 Formalise a carbon reduction action plan in partnership with the Carbon Trust. Implement LED scheme Reduce carbon emissions to the required target Cost window replacement scheme Maintain a robust financial base, continue to achieve and promote excellent value for money and utilise resources efficiently and effectively 13.2 13.5 13.6 JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) Consider alternative sources of energy and associated payback models Develop statistical information on carbon usage Review all energy contracts, types of metering and models of reporting page 27 of 30 Risk Area 13: Environment Risk 13.1 Breaches under environmental legislation Score Assessment The nature of the College business means that it is unlikely to lead to any serious breach of environmental legislation. Systems are in place for controlling storage and disposal of substances likely to cause difficulties in accordance with relevant legislation such as The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2010 (e.g. chemicals, paint). Containers are in place to dispose of electrical waste which addresses the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) legislation. When new guidelines are introduced, for example the recent storage of radioactive materials update, appropriate professional advice is sought. The College may unknowingly breach environmental legislation; for example in the disposal of cooking oil or hair and beauty product waste which may be pollutants. 8 Likelihood Low (2) Materiality Significant (4) Categorisation Compliance The Green Travel Plan conforms to guidance on best practice from the Local Authority. The College complies with legislation regarding the display of energy certificates, checks to air conditioning systems and regularly tests water supplies to guard against legionella. The law is developing rapidly and becoming more complex. This may present future challenges and risks and must be regularly reviewed and monitored. Risk 13.2 Failure to achieve targets for the reduction in energy consumption Score Assessment The costs of energy are volatile and are dependent on global factors. The College has benefited from negotiating contracts via a specialist purchasing consortia. However, these contracts are usually only available on a short/medium term basis. Consumption may rise for example following the installation of mechanical ventilation, air conditioning and other equipment in some locations within the College. Global climatic conditions may require increased energy for heating and cooling. The College has taken steps to limit energy consumption by introducing smart lighting and light-sensitive controls to most external lighting and central controls to turn off student computers at specific times in all teaching areas. There is an ongoing programme to replace all internal fittings with LED devices. Educating staff and students regarding care for the environment is crucial to achieving energy consumption targets. New blocks have been designed specifically to be energy efficient and the BMS controls are regularly checked. The Green Travel Plan encourages staff and students to walk, cycle or travel via public transport/college buses. Whilst an increasing number of buses will lead to carbon emissions this is much less than if everyone travelled by car. Moreover, the College operates a Cycle Scheme for staff and a similar car scheme to reduce grey fleet and encourage low emission vehicles. Schemes must be evaluated to quantify energy consumption and savings. The College has adopted a carbon management plan as part of the environmental strategy and will explore other options such as zone valves and energy efficient boilers. 9 Likelihood Medium (3) Materiality Medium (3) Categorisation Compliance JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 28 of 30 Risk 13.3 Failure to constrain the amount of waste especially that sent to landfill Score Assessment Historically a high proportion of waste was sent to landfill and, as an environmentally responsible organisation, the College was committed to taking steps to reduce this. Hence, a comprehensive system of mixed waste recycling has been successfully introduced and all general waste is now recycled. All batteries, computer hardware and toners are also recycled. In accordance with Government themes the College aims to maintain this recycling programme and raise awareness regarding litter and wasting resources. Even though all waste is sorted, recycling bins will be installed in student areas to promote environmental awareness. 4 Risk 13.4 Failure to consider environmental factors in purchasing Score Assessment The College has an approved Procurement Policy which states procedures and best practice regarding sustainable purchasing. Some initiatives have been successful; for example the College now procures all paper from environmentally responsible sources approved by the Forestry Stewardship Council. There may be an increase in cost as recycled items can be more expensive. This may become an increased risk factor in a time of funding cuts and being required to demonstrate efficiency savings. However it is important to consider the whole cost not merely the price of the item. Also, budget holders need to avoid waste, safeguard assets and ensure that all goods are actually required. Within the parameters of EU procurement law the College considers the carbon footprint of deliveries. Methods of delivery are also considered to ensure minimal adverse environmental impact. The College will now continue to build on existing good practice in this area. The requirement to demonstrate sound environmental policies is a requirement in all tenders. 9 Risk 13.5 Failure to migrate from paper based systems to digital platforms Score Assessment The College is proactively embracing technology and has made significant progress, successfully introducing systems of egovernance, iTracker, electronic student tracking, sessional pay and other web based systems. The replacement of the core business support systems will advance this agenda. This reduces the volumes of paper utilisation as well as increasing efficiency and effectiveness. Moodle is well used and the students value this digital resource. Despite this, some teaching resources are paper based and some support areas are also still dependent on manual based systems. New requirements from certain exam boards require hard copies of student work which is contra to a paperless objective. The volume of paper being ordered and reprographics/printing patterns suggest that the College continues to use significant paper based resources. Failure to move to digital systems is a risk from many aspects but there is also an environmental strand. It must be noted that technical support is a finite resource. The reliance on digital systems is itself a risk (refer to risk area 10 Digital). 9 Likelihood Insignificant (1) Materiality Significant (4) Categorisation Opportunity Likelihood Medium (3) Materiality Medium (3) Categorisation Financial Likelihood Medium (3) Materiality Medium (3) Categorisation Opportunity JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 29 of 30 Risk 13.6 Failure to manage access and egress to the site (especially Whittingham Road) and the impact of transport on the local environment Score Assessment Transport can impact on quality of the environment. The College has been very proactive in addressing the environmental concerns regarding traffic management and volumes of pedestrians entering and exiting the sites at key points of the day. Advice has been sought and enhancements made to car park entrances to provide a distinct pedestrian route. This is now working well. Moreover, the College has been instrumental in securing traffic calming measures and has built a bus lay-by for student transport. However, given the volume of cars and pedestrians not only within the Whittingham Road site but at nearby schools, there is an inherent risk. Staff and students do park legally along the public highways surrounding the College. The College has a management rota for arrival and departure of buses with health and safety considerations paramount. There have been a couple of minor incidents. Delivery times are restricted to avoid busy periods. 8 Likelihood Low (2) Materiality Significant (4) Categorisation Reputational Thorough risk evaluation on car park routes are conducted and student awareness of road safety etc. is raised through the tutorial curriculum. Risk 13.7 Failure to achieve the target BREEAM and similar standards for new building projects Score Assessment On certain projects the College was granted financial support from the Skills Funding Agency et al to contribute to the costs of capital developments. These grants had requirements for BREEAM compliance. The College completed an environmental file and this was a standing item at every site meeting. 1 Likelihood Insignificant (1) Materiality Insignificant (1) Categorisation/ Financial The College will continue to work towards environmental standards for all capital works. There are no current projects with specific requirements. Risk 13.8 Failure to maintain required levels of biodiversity Score Assessment The College wishes to sustain a pleasant learning and working environment and is mindful of biodiversity especially during and following major capital building projects. Tree surveys have been conducted and there will be a new scheme of replanting in place linking with the revised property strategy. 6 Likelihood Medium (3) Materiality Low (2) Categorisation/ Compliance A new grounds contract will focus on improving the borders at the Whittingham campus. Risk 13.9 Failure to promote positive environmental action Score Assessment Celebrating positive contributions to the environmental agenda amongst the staff and student body can convey key messages throughout College and into the wider community. Some initiatives such as the Woodland Trust work have been publicised on Buzz and received positive feedback. 9 Likelihood Medium (3) Materiality Medium (3) An environmental noticeboard may further aid communication of this global issue. JCa/jjg/ Halesowen College Environmental Strategy (Nov 2015) page 30 of 30