Ms Nicola Winters:

It is interesting that one of the hearings today is on the need for funding and the other relates to cost-saving measures. As we said earlier, this must be emphasised at all levels from Government to institutions to students. My role is with Young Friends of the Earth so I deal with students in universities and other third level institutions. They believe there are good initiatives and policies in place at a governmental level but the issue is how they trickle down and are played out. There must be support for implementation so students will feel responsibility for saving energy and becoming sustainable is shared across the board from the Government to society in general.

In terms of measuring savings, I spoke to a green campus co-ordinator recently. I was told of a campaign over Easter, Campus Unplugged, as a result of which phenomenal savings were made. Those involved were surprised by the level of success. As Ms Heussaff said, it is a matter of addressing the low-hanging fruit and we should take advantage of this.