A PARTNERSHIP between Worcester’s council and university which more than doubled recycling rates among students in its first year has been commended for a second time.

The University of Worcester and Worcester City Council received gold in the Green Apple Environment Awards at a ceremony at the House of Commons for its project aimed at boosting students’ green credentials.

The winning project, a partnership between the two organisations, targeted more than 4,000 learners living in university-managed and privately rented student accommodation through the training of 13 volunteers peer advocates.

Katy Boom, director of environmental sustainability at the university, said: “It’s really pleasing to receive a second Gold Green Apple Award for this partnership project, especially when the students put in many hours of voluntary work into its success.

“I’m also proud that the university achieves national recognition for a project which has continued and grown in its scope.”

The initial impact of the campaign achieved a 120 per cent boost in recycling in student halls.

Recycling rates have remained high throughout the campaign and in the last year 272.14 tonnes were collected in halls.

As part of the campaign, free reusable polycarbonate recycling bags were distributed by the university to all off-campus student accommodation.

Green recycling bins and re-usable bags were also provided in all kitchens in on-campus accommodation to strengthen the recycling message.

Councillor Roger Knight, of Worcester City Council, said: “As the cabinet member for a cleaner and greener city in Worcester, I am delighted to see that the University of Worcester has won a Green Apple Environment Award.

Worcester City Council is proud to have the university as a partner and we are grateful for their ongoing dedicated work in this important area.

“We believe this education of young people in the stewardship of our environment will bring immeasurable benefits in the years to come.”