Graphic reading "Delivering Net Zero by 2030"

Maintenance team critical to success of Climate Plan

Last updated on 25 October 2023

Senior Maintenance Manager, James Wright, has outlined the critical role of maintenance and operations staff in achieving the goals of the University of Leeds’ Climate Plan.

Increasing biodiversity

In a video encouraging staff to play their part, James discusses partnership with academic colleagues on Gair Wood – new planting across 37 hectares that will increase biodiversity and act as a Living Lab.

James also discusses other initiatives such as the University’s fleet moving to zero emissions.

James Wright, Senior Maintenance Manager, said:

“The University of Leeds estate is around the size of 500 football pitches and is incredibly diverse – from offices and residential buildings to sports grounds and farmland.

“We have a big part to play in helping the University to meet its goal of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2030. We try and lead by example to make sure that we achieve net zero.”

Climate Plan biggest investment ever made

At £174 million, the University of Leeds’ ambitious Climate Plan represents the largest investment it has ever made.

Seven key principles highlight the university’s commitment to net zero emissions, a sustainable curriculum, responsible investment and reorienting postgraduate research and teaching away from the fossil fuel sector.

To find out more about the University of Leeds’ commitments, visit the online hub here. Follow @UoLCampusDevelopment on social media for further updates.

Watch a video of James explaining the role the Estates and Operation