The University of Staffordshire in partnership with the EAUC ( Environmental Association for Universities and Colleges)  is in advanced discussion with HEFCE to establish the national repository of environmental knowledge and best practice in HE.

At this time of financial cuts and demands for carbon reduction, it’s believed that all HEIs have much to gain from a shared national repository of environmental knowledge which will facilitate the sharing of good practice and to support the development of good practice where none exists.

HEFCE agree, as such a resource was recommended in the recent evaluation of the Revolving Green Fund.

In collaboration with key sector organisations, such as USHA, its proposed to develop an e-based low carbon Knowledge Exchange Infrastructure for the sector that is befitting of the 21st Century.

In-depth knowledge covering the breadth of environmental sustainability themes will be addressed and disseminated using emerging and innovative ways to reflect the changes in how we now work, learn and teach. These will include case studies, e-learning, video, webinars, online CPD, podcasts and documents relating to sector policy, technical guidance and operations.

The focus will be on flexible and accessible learning to ensure that current and future sector knowledge is not locked away in un-engaging and inaccessible formats.

The commitment is that USHA will be represented as a Founding Partner as we shape what will become a significant sector resource.

There will be two layers of voluntary involvement, the Exchange Advisory Board and an Exchange Panel.  The Advisory Board which will meet physically at first then virtually no more than three times a year for the two years. The Exchange Panel will contribute less formally as and when required.

Nigel Price Head of Health & Safety and Environmental Services at Staffordshire University has been selected by the USHA Executive to be our representative on this project.