In 2007, UCC students instigated a pilot Green Campus programme, with the help of An Taisce, which would see the university become the first in the world to be awarded a Green Flag from the Foundation for Environmental Education. UCC renewed its Green Flag in 2013 and 2016, and in July 2016 published its Sustainability Strategy. The programme is student-led, research-informed and practice-focused and our success demonstrates the strong commitment across all levels and divisions in the university. In 2018, UCC became the first university in Europe to be awarded a Gold Star from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education.

In March 2020, University College Cork celebrated 10 years since becoming the first University in the world to be awarded a Green Flag from the Foundation for Environmental Education.  Green Campus involves a seven-step programme and a cycle of continual improvement.  Campuses are fully reassessed, by a panel of external experts, every 3 years.  UCC has successfully renewed it’s Green Flag 4 times.

The Green Campus Programme in UCC has evolved significantly since its inception. Strong commitment and support from the highest levels in the university has contributed to embedding sustainability across our operations, teaching, research and outreach.  The student-led Green Campus Committee, chaired by the Student’s Union Deputy President, meets regularly to discuss ideas and campaigns to improve the campus.  These meetings feed into biannual meetings of the  Green Campus Forum, which takes its membership from across all functions within the University.  The forum ensures continuity and strategic oversight throughout the academic cycle.

Green Campus Contact Details

Dr. Maria Kirrane, Sustainability Officer m.kirrane@ucc.ie

For further information on Green Campus please refer to https://greencampus.ucc.ie/