AN eco-conscious college has been nominated for a top prize after education bosses dedicated resources and finances to helping combat climate change.
Colchester Institute, in Sheepen Road, has been shortlisted as a finalist in the upcoming 2022 Essex Countywide Business Awards.
The college, which is committed to raising awareness of issues affecting the climate, has been named in the Environmental Award category.
Since declaring a climate emergency in October 2021, the college has invested in several initiatives with a view of reducing its impact on the planet.
This includes a £5.1 million decarbonisation scheme to replace building elements and gas boilers with air source heat pumps and installing electric vehicle charging points.
The college has also planted 195 trees during the past 12 months across all sites, as well as a wildflower meadow at its Braintree campus.
The main focus, however, has been to raise awareness of the environment among students through the development of a flagship programme of carbon literacy.
Gary Horne, deputy chief executive at Colchester Institute, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be nominated for this award.
“It is in recognition of all we have done so far to raise awareness about the environment, and this will remain a strategic priority for Colchester Institute.”
Also nominated for an award is Henry Rollings, a digital marketing apprentice who undertakes his training at Colchester Institute.
Henry has been shortlisted for the Apprentice of the Year Award, having excelled in his apprenticeship whilst overcoming personal adversity at the same time.
“I am beyond humbled by this nomination and proud of how far I have come,” he added.
“Being nominated for this award proves you can join and do well in an apprenticeship at any age.
“If you apply yourself and believe in what you do, you really can achieve whatever you wish.”
To find out more information about the Essex Countywide Business Awards, visit newsquestevents.co.uk.
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