UTS Sustainability Policy

UTS notes with concern the growing body of evidence indicating that human activities are threatening the life support systems on Earth. The composition of the atmosphere is being altered, soils are being lost, species are being threatened or extinguished at an accelerating rate, and air and water are being polluted. These changes, together with massive upheavals in world economies, are challenging ecological integrity, social stability, economic security, cultural diversity and human rights.

The University recognises a special responsibility to apply its intellectual resources to ameliorating, even reversing, these trends by identifying, verifying and promoting policies, mechanisms and procedures which lead to sustainability in all aspects of human endeavour.

This means that the University will ensure that in its:

• curricula
• teaching practices
• research and consulting
• community service activities
• institutional practices

emphasis will be given to ensuring that UTS demonstrates and promotes the achievement of sustainable futures embracing ecological, economic and social aspects of human existence.

This policy gives substance to the decision taken by UTS in October 1998 to sign the Talloires Declaration.

The Vice-Chancellor will put in place appropriate implementation arrangements and report annually to Council on the impact of the policy on University practices.

Last administrative update: November 1998