Thanks to all of the students, staff and members of our community who have contacted us to ask about our ZERO project. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions, along with our answers...
- What is the ZERO project?
The ZERO project is MidKent College’s initiative to significantly reduce our environmental impact and work towards becoming carbon-neutral. It focuses on reducing energy consumption, waste, and pollution, while promoting sustainable practices across the college.
- Why is sustainability important to MidKent College?
Sustainability is vital for ensuring a better future for our students, staff, and the wider community. By taking responsibility for our environmental impact, we contribute to the global effort to combat climate change, protect natural resources, and build a more sustainable society.
- How does the ZERO project benefit students and staff?
The ZERO project creates a healthier, more eco-friendly environment for everyone at the college. It offers learning opportunities for students in sustainability-related fields, and staff benefit from working in a workplace committed to reducing waste and energy use. In the long term, the project helps create a more resilient college, prepared for future environmental challenges.
- What are the college’s key sustainability goals?
MidKent College aims to achieve carbon neutrality, reduce single-use plastics, lower our overall energy consumption, and increase recycling and waste reduction across campus. We are also working to incorporate more renewable energy sources into our operations.
- What steps has the college taken so far?
To date we’ve made significant progress preparing our campuses for a switch to renewable energy. Solar installation at Medway is almost complete, and we're moving to the next phase of the project to install air-source-heat-pumps. In Maidstone we've laid a whopping 16km of piping below our main car park to serve the ground-source-heat-pumps, and will move to the next phase with solar installation (including a sizeable solar car port with photo-voltaic technology). We've also been busy installing energy-efficient lighting, improving recycling facilities, reducing water usage, and promoting sustainable transport options. Additionally, the college has organised staff training and student workshops on sustainability topics and sponsors sustainability categories in several local and regional competitions.
- How can individual staff members contribute to the ZERO project?
We're encouraging staff to adopt energy-saving practices, reduce paper waste, recycle more, and to build sustainable habits in their departments. Staff can also participate in college-wide initiatives like waste reduction campaigns, or join our sustainability working group.
- Can students get involved in the ZERO project?
Absolutely! Students are key to the success of the ZERO project. They can participate in sustainability projects, join eco-friendly societies, and contribute ideas on how the college can improve its sustainability efforts. We also run various workshops and events focused on environmental issues that students are encouraged to join.
- How does the ZERO project align with national and global sustainability efforts?
The ZERO project supports the UK’s national goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, as well as the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By implementing sustainable practices on campus, MidKent College is playing its part in the global movement to tackle climate change and promote environmental responsibility.
- How will we measure the success of the ZERO project?
Success will be measured through regular reviews of our energy consumption, waste production, and recycling rates. We’ll also monitor feedback from staff and students, and assess progress towards our long-term goal of carbon neutrality. All achievements will be shared with the college community to celebrate milestones.
- What can the wider community do to support the ZERO project?
We encourage local businesses, organisations, and individuals to engage with us on sustainability projects. Whether it’s through partnerships, sharing resources, or participating in our events, the community can help us extend our impact and work together towards a more sustainable future.
