Universities urged to become ‘eco-versities’
A new vision of how universities can lead the drive towards sustainability – by becoming “eco-versities” – will be presented at a national conference of university delegates on the Sunshine Coast this week.
The University of the Sunshine Coast will outline how tertiary institutions can do more than simply teach about sustainability, when it hosts the Australian Universities Community Engagement Alliance (AUCEA) conference from Wednesday to Friday (9-11 July).
Under the banner of “Engaging for a Sustainable Future”, this annual conference aims to promote partnerships between universities, private enterprise, government and communities.
About 150 delegates from most Australian and several overseas universities are set to attend, along with government and business representatives, including representatives of the new Sunshine Coast Regional Council.
AUCEA vice-president and USC Professor of Regional Engagement Steve Garlick said he would present a paper which would introduce the concept of “eco-versities”.
Professor Garlick said this approach to sustainability would include all facets of universities, from curriculum, pedagogy, infrastructure, buildings, the treatment of the environment and wildlife, and their engagement with the community.
He said his paper would outline USC’s moves towards becoming an “eco-versity” through its engagement with the local community and wildlife. He said the concept could include the University applying to become a wildlife sanctuary.
Conference delegates will attend sessions at USC and on Fraser Island, where the University has several important connections.
Professor Garlick said the University of the Sunshine Coast had taken a strong stance on community engagement and the environment.
“The role universities play in creating a sustainable future through engaging with their communities is substantial,” he said.
“The conference will advance university-community engagement, offering the opportunity for academics, private sector project managers, government and council officers, and community engagement practitioners to share expertise and experience.
“The conference will also provide vital opportunities and knowledge for organisations wanting to engage with Australian universities.”
Keynote speaker will be Professor James Powell OBE, the Pro Vice Chancellor for Enterprise and Regional Affairs at Salford University in the United Kingdom.
Professor Powell is a leading academic in the fields of engineering research, and education and science. He has spent the past 30 years working to improve the relationship between industry and academia for their mutual benefit.
— Terry Walsh