The University of Chichester has been named Green Business of the Year at the 2026 Sussex Chamber Business Awards, recognising its commitment to sustainability.
The award was presented at a ceremony in Brighton, hosted by Olympic gold medallist Sally Gunnell, with Lucy Ferre, Energy and Carbon Manager, and Emily Shepherd, Environmental and Sustainable Development Coordinator, receiving the award on behalf of the University.
The accolade celebrates the University’s approach to sustainability, which combines ambitious environmental targets with practical action across its campuses.
The University has set a Net Zero target of 2045, supported by carbon reduction goals as part of its current five-year strategy. Dedicated steering groups have been established to drive cultural change and deliver projects across the institution, including Carbon Literacy training, the installation of electric vehicle charging points, electricity monitoring to identify energy “hotspots”, the removal of single-use cups, and studies to improve heat network efficiency.
Sustainability engagement has also been strengthened through communications, events and campaigns that encourage students, staff and partners to play an active role in reducing environmental impact.
The University’s commitment extends to the local area, and in partnership with Chichester District Council, it recently hosted the Wasted Opportunity conference, helping businesses reduce waste and unlock hidden value in raw materials while promoting more sustainable ways of working.
A spokesperson for the Sussex Chamber of Commerce said: “The University of Chichester impressed the judges with its strategic, institution-wide commitment to sustainability and its ability to translate ambition into measurable results. Through innovative initiatives, meaningful carbon reduction, the integration of sustainability into education, and leadership within the wider community, the University has demonstrated how organisations can create lasting environmental and social impact. Its holistic approach, clear vision, and measurable achievements make it a highly deserving winner.”
Reflecting on the win, Lucy Ferre said: “We were already delighted to have been shortlisted, so to be named Green Business of the Year was fantastic.
“It’s great to be able to highlight the importance of green businesses and how we want to support the area in developing greener processes. Sustainability doesn’t stop at our campus boundaries. Through collaboration, knowledge-sharing and leading by example, we hope to help businesses, organisations and communities across Sussex adopt greener practices and contribute to a more sustainable future for the region.”
The award recognises the University’s growing role as a sustainability leader in Sussex, demonstrating how higher education institutions can drive meaningful environmental change while supporting the communities they serve.