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USC rises to Living Smart Challenge
The University of the Sunshine Coast is confident it can give the Sunshine Coast Council a run for its money in the Living Smart Challenge that was launched by Mayor Bob Abbot recently.
Mr Abbot threw down the gauntlet to USC, the Sunshine Coast Institute of TAFE (SCIT), Queensland Health and to his own council team by urging as many staff and students from each organisation to sign up for the free program.
The initiative encourages home owners to register online and complete modules on ways to improve the sustainability of their homes.
A Living Smart team spokesperson has confirmed USC is currently in second place, narrowly behind the council, after having registered 51 participants out of 121 to date.
USC Vice-Chancellor Professor Greg Hill said he believed many more staff and students would participate in the program, given the high level of awareness about sustainable practices on campus.
“USC is an ambassador for sustainability and I’m encouraging all staff and students to sign up for the council initiative,” he said.
Professor Hill said many of USC’s study programs incorporated aspects of sustainability and the University recently gained EnviroDevelopment accreditation for its emphasis on ecosystems, waste management, use of energy, materials and water and for its connections to the community.
The Living Smart Challenge is just one of several partnerships involving USC, SCIT and the Sunshine Coast Council aimed at encouraging sustainability.
Another example of this collaboration is the new Sustainable Sunshine Coast website – a user-friendly site which shows people how to make simple, cost-effective changes to help save the environment.
To participate in the Living Smart Challenge, go to <www.livingsmartqld.com.au>.
— Michelle Widdicombe