Sustainability at Colchester Institute

At Colchester Institute, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We recognise the urgent need to address climate change and are committed to reducing our environmental impact through meaningful action and long-term strategy. From cutting carbon emissions to embedding sustainable practices across our campuses and curriculum, we are dedicated to creating a greener future for our students, staff and wider community.

33% reduction in carbon emissions
Nearly 1,000 Solar PV panels installed
Over 400 trees planted

Colchester Institute declared a climate emergency in October 2021, and pledged to reduce scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions by 50% by 2030 with full net zero in operation by 2042.  Our latest independently verified carbon report shows that in five years since July 2020, there has been a 33% reduction in carbon emissions, despite a significant growth in college activities.

We have a call to action for all colleagues to support achievement of our targets whilst crucially using our influence to raise awareness among students and our wider college community.  There is much to do to continue the pace of progress, with current and recent initiatives underway to raise awareness.

Sustainability In The News

New Environmental Strategy
29th October 2025
As one of the largest Further Education Colleges in the East of England, and a local anchor institution, Colchester Institute...
Essex Wildlife Trust Sponsorship
17th September 2025
Colchester Institute has become a Platinum Investor of Essex Wildlife Trust which forms the centrepiece of a new partnership that...
Colchester Institute goes Electric
31st August 2025
Colchester Institute took another step towards reducing its impact on the environment this week having completed the upgrade of its...
Colchester Institute Sponsors Zoo
31st July 2025
As one of the largest Further Education Colleges in the East of England, Colchester Institute is proud to be a...
New Net Zero and Renewables Centre
10th September 2024
Colchester Institute was delighted to welcome Jonathon Cuthbertson, Essex County Council’s Head of Skills and Employability, to help launch a...
Essex Business Award Winner
8th November 2023
Colchester Institute has been awarded the prestigious Environmental Awareness Award at the 2023 Essex Business Awards. This accolade recognises the...