Local News
18th June 2020
issue 1118
www.looklocal.org.uk
Call 0114 283 1100
13
RENEWABLE ENERGY 2 years of campaigning from student volunteers have convinced the university to move to 100% renewable energy
The University of Sheffield has just announced that it will now use energy generated only by solar, wind, and hydro power. This is a huge cause for celebration for the UoS Clean Energy Switch Campaign group- a group of student volunteers who have dedicated hundreds of hours to fight for a sustainable future. They have ended up influencing how the University spends millions of pounds every year.
For years, the University of Sheffield bought its electricity from Drax Group, which generates electricity by burning coal and biofuels (Drax deforestorestation and shipping of biofuels is proven to be high carbon), and is at the forefront of UK corporate greenwashing. Students researched the university's previous energy supplier’s environmental impact and costs. They lobbied for a more cost effective and environmentally friendly energy provider. The volunteers presented this information to university decision makers, sat on groups making recommendations to the highest governing body of the University, and ultimately triggered the change in supplier. George Coiley, a environmental politics PhD student:
“I’ve put countless hours into this campaign, and two years later the University has at last made the right decision, one that is more aligned with the demands of climate justice. While there is much more to be done both in Sheffield and in the wider sector, we hope our success shows other institutions that positive steps can be achieved right now.” Peter Nolan, an undergraduate reading Environmental Science:
“A racial analysis of climate change reveals that it has been primarily caused by affluent white people, while those who suffer its consequences are primarily black, indigenous and people of colour. To be anti-racist, our universities and institutions must dismantle this exploitation. A small part is decarbonising our energy systems in the UK.” Maria, a PhD candidate in sustainable agriculture: “As an international student from a developing country, I never thought that I could have much impact on how things are being run. Being part of this team of incredibly passionate volunteers has really empowered me to speak out for climate justice and inspire others to do the same!"
Face coverings needed for public transport New rules requiring passengers to wear a face covering on their journey will come into force on public transport across England from Monday 15 June The advice is clear that people should continue to avoid taking public transport where possible, but by mandating the use of face cover-
ings Government is asking passengers to play their part in helping to protect each other as the numbers of people travelling gradually start to rise across the country, following the careful easing of restrictions when it’s safe to do so. Over 3,000 extra staff from British Transport Police, Net-
work Rail, Train Operating Companies and Transport for London will be deployed from Monday at key transport hubs and interchanges across England – providing dedicated reassurance, advice and friendly assistance to people as they follow social distancing guidance.
Pick-up your at these drop-off points Stocksbridge & Deepcar
Co-Op Lidl WCF Garage
Mcolls Aldi - Fox Valley Spar
OUGHTIBRIDGE
Village Store
They will also support existing staff by helping to manage congestion. Alongside this, hundreds of thousands of face coverings will be handed out for passenger use at many locations across the rail network in England from Monday. The one-off initiative, which will run for several days at a
number of stations, will see coverings provided free of charge to support passengers and help them travel safely. Under the changes, operators will be able to stop passengers who refuse to follow the rules from travelling and direct them to leave services. The police and Transport for London authorised person-
Tesco Cecil Penny
nel will also be able to issue fixed penalty notices of £100, or £50 if paid in 14 days. Exemptions for the use of face coverings will apply to those with certain health conditions, disabled people and children under the age of 11.
Penistone
Oxspring Post Office
Chapeltown & High Green Asda
Texaco
thurgoland
Ernest Thorpe
