Sustainable Environmental Practices at Unisa, 2009 Survey

SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTAL
PRACTICES AT UNISA, 2009
Study commissioned by the
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH AFRICA
Executive Director: Strategy, Planning and Quality Assurance
Study conducted by
B U R E A U O F M A R K E T R E S E A R C H
College of Economic and Management Sciences
University of South Africa

SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTAL
PRACTICES AT UNISA
Study commissioned by the
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH AFRICA
Executive Director: Strategy, Planning and Quality Assurance
Compiled by
Prof DH Tustin (DCom)
(Executive Research Director)
Mrs M Goetz
(Senior Research Coordinator)
B U R E A U O F M A R K E T R E S E A R C H
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH AFRICA
Pretoria 2009

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
___________________________________________________________________________
Finance and University Estates
• Vice-Principal: Finance and University Estates
(Prof JE Kleynhans)
• Executive Assistant in the Office of the Vice-Principle Finance and University Estates
(Mrs E Struwig)
‣ Finance Department
• Financial Accounting (Mr JP Muller)
• Procurement Directorate (Ms MJ Dube)
• Special Projects and ABC/M Directorate (Mr WH du Plessis)
‣ University Estates Department (Mr JP Lombaard & Ms V Swartz)
• Infrastructure Management Directorate (Mr M Willemse)
• Maintenance Directorate (Mr AR Dalton)
‣ Support Services Department
• Conference, Cleaning and Catering Service Division (Mr I Mogomotsi)
Operations
‣ Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) Department
• Operations (Mr DJ Weiermans)
• User Support Services (Mr DA Burger)
• Portal and Academic Solutions (Mr D van der Merwe)
‣ Study Material, Print, Production and Delivery Department
• Unisa Press (Ms Le Roux)
• Language Services (Ms R Negota)
• Sound, Video and Photography (Mr HJD van de Westhuizen)
• Despatch (Mr Z Bagus)
• Print Production (Mr S Thobela)
‣ Corporate Communication and Marketing Department
(Dr M Ferreira)
Directorate: Curriculum and Learning Development (Dr P Prinsloo)
Centre for Corporate Citizenship (Dr N Eccles)
School of Environmental Sciences (Prof WAJ Nel)
Department of Further Teacher Education (Dr LDM Oupa Lebeloane)
Bureau of Market Research
(Mrs M Goetz - Typing, technical layout and data analysis)
(Mrs C Kemp - Language editing)

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
LIST OF TABLES IN TEXT ........................................................................................................... v
LIST OF FIGURES IN TEXT ........................................................................................................ vi
LIST OF EXHIBITS IN TEXT ...................................................................................................... vii
LIST OF GRIDS IN TEXT .......................................................................................................... viii
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................................................... ix
CHAPTER 1:
AIMS AND METHODOLOGY OF THE STUDY
1.1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................ 1
1.2 OBJECTIVES AND RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES ........................................................ 2
1.3 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY ..................................................................................... 3
1.3.1 Environmentally sustainable office practice survey ............................................... 3
1.3.2 Environmentally sustainable education practices .................................................. 9
1.3.3 Environmentally sustainable practices of selected internal service
Departments ........................................................................................................... 11
1.4 DATA CAPTURING, DATA CLEANING AND STORING ............................................. 19
1.5 REPORT LAYOUT ..................................................................................................... 19
CHAPTER 2:
SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS PRACTICES BY TERTIARY EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS
AND BUSINESS CORPORATES
2.1 INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................... 20
2.2 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY ................................................................................... 20
2.3 ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES OF ‘OTHER’ UNIVERSITIES ......... 20
2.4 ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES OF LOCAL
CORPORATE BUSINESS ........................................................................................... 42
2.5 SUSTAINABLE CORPORATIONS IN THE WORLD .................................................... 57
2.6 CONCLUSION .......................................................................................................... 60

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CHAPTER 3:
ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF RESEARCH AMONG STAFF
3.1 INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................... 63
3.2 DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE OF RESPONDENTS ......................................................... 63
3.3 OFFICE ENVIRONMENT .......................................................................................... 65
3.4 ENVIRONMENTAL INTEREST, AWARENESS AND BEHAVIOUR .............................. 67
3.4.1 Environmental interest .......................................................................................... 67
3.4.2 Environmental sensitivity ...................................................................................... 68
3.4.3 ‘Green’ office behaviour ........................................................................................ 69
3.4.3.1 Paper, printing and storage .................................................................................... 69
3.4.3.2 Energy/electricity .................................................................................................... 71
3.4.3.3 Waste management ............................................................................................... 74
3.4.3.4 Recycling behaviour ................................................................................................ 77
3.4.3.5 Water usage ............................................................................................................ 79
3.4.3.6 Ethic food consumption .......................................................................................... 80
3.4.3.7 Responsible travelling ............................................................................................. 81
3.5 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSCIOUSNESS AND AWARENESS ....................................... 82
3.6 SUSTAINABLE OFFICE PRACTICES .......................................................................... 85
3.6.1 Internal office environment ................................................................................... 85
3.6.2 Institutional environment ...................................................................................... 88
3.7 RESPONSIBLE CONSUMERISM ............................................................................... 96
3.8 ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE EDUCATION PRACTICES ............................... 97
3.9 GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RATING TOOL .......................................................... 101
3.10 CONCLUSION ......................................................................................................... 136
CHAPTER 4:
ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES OF SELECTED INTERNAL
SERVICE DEPARTMENTS
4.1 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................... 137
4.2 FINANCE DEPARTMENT AND PROCUREMENT AND SPECIAL PROJECTS
DIRECTORATES ..................................................................................................... 139
4.2.1 Environmental policy on procurement ............................................................... 140

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4.2.2 Environmental awareness/commitment to ‘green’ procurement ..................... 142
4.2.3 Green product/service purchase practices ......................................................... 143
4.3 UNIVERSITY ESTATES DEPARTMENT ................................................................... 146
4.3.1 Environmental policies ......................................................................................... 147
4.3.2 Green infrastructure/facilities ............................................................................. 149
4.3.2.1 Office environment ............................................................................................... 149
4.3.2.2 Maintenance and installation ............................................................................... 153
4.3.2.3 Environmental facilities ........................................................................................ 155
4.3.2.4 Environmental monitoring/control ....................................................................... 157
4.3.3 Environmental projects ........................................................................................ 158
4.3.4 Environmental awareness ................................................................................... 158
4.3.5 General ................................................................................................................. 159
4.4 CONFERENCE, CLEANING AND CATERING SERVICES DEPARTMENT .................. 160
4.4.1 Environmental policy ........................................................................................... 160
4.4.2 Environmental awareness ................................................................................... 160
4.4.3 General ................................................................................................................. 161
4.5 INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT)
DIRECTORATE ....................................................................................................... 161
4.5.1 Environmental policy ........................................................................................... 161
4.5.2 Environmental initiatives and awareness ........................................................... 163
4.5.3 Monitoring mechanism ........................................................................................ 165
4.5.4 General ................................................................................................................. 165
4.6 STUDY MATERIAL, PRINT, PRODUCTION AND DELIVERY DIRECTORATE ........... 166
4.6.1 Environmental policy ........................................................................................... 166
4.6.2 Waste minimisation, awareness and education ................................................. 168
4.6.3 General ................................................................................................................. 168
4.7 CORPORATE COMMUNICATION AND MARKETING (CCM)
DEPARTMENT ....................................................................................................... 169
4.7.1 Environmental policy ........................................................................................... 169
4.7.2 Environmental awareness ................................................................................... 170
4.7.3 General ................................................................................................................. 171
4.8 CONCLUSION ........................................................................................................ 172

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CHAPTER 5:
SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................... 174
5.2 RELIABILITY OF RESEARCH MODEL ...................................................................... 174
5.3 SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS ............................................................... 175
5.3.1 Campus sustainability programme ...................................................................... 175
5.3.1.1 Mapping current situation and developing a governance structure .................... 176
5.3.1.2 Measuring environmental impacts ....................................................................... 178
5.3.1.3 Integrating campus activities ............................................................................... 179
5.3.1.4 Determining goals and a strategy for the process ................................................ 179
5.3.1.5 Establishing strategies to create a sustainable campus ....................................... 180
5.3.1.6 Education and awareness ..................................................................................... 181
5.3.2 Recommended environmentally sustainable practices and guidelines ............ 182
5.4 IMMEDIATE-, SHORT, MEDIUM AND LONG TERM MEASURES .......................... 193
5.4.1 Immediate action ................................................................................................. 193
5.4.2 Short-term measures ........................................................................................... 194
5.4.3 Medium term measures ...................................................................................... 195
5.4.4 Long-term measures ............................................................................................ 196
5.5 CONCLUSION ........................................................................................................ 196
BIBLIOGRAPHY ..................................................................................................... 198
ANNEXURE A: ....................................................................................................... 201

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Table
LIST OF TABLES IN TEXT
CHAPTER 2
Page
2.1 GLOBAL 100 MOST SUSTAINABLE CORPORATIONS IN THE WORLD .................... 57
CHAPTER 3
3.1 DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE OF RESPONDENTS ......................................................... 63
3.2 STAFF ACCESS TO AND AVAILABILITY TO OFFICE AIR AND LIGHT AND
BATHROOM FEATURES .......................................................................................... 66
3.3 ENVIRONMENTAL INTEREST AND AWARENESS OF RESPONDENTS ..................... 67
3.4 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSCIOUSNESS AND AWARENESS OF RESPONDENTS ........ 83
3.5 ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS, OPINIONS AND KNOWLEDGE OF
STAFF ...................................................................................................................... 84
3.6 DEPARTMENT ENCOURAGEMENT AND STAFF WILLINGNESS TO
BECOME INVOLVED IN ‘GREEN’ OFFICE INITIATIVES ............................................ 86
3.7 GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RATINGS BY GENDER .............................................. 103
3.8 GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RATINGS BY QUALIFICATION ................................. 105
3.9 GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RATINGS BY TENURE .............................................. 108
3.10 GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RATINGS BY AGE ..................................................... 111
3.11 GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RATINGS BY DESIGNATED GROUP ......................... 114
3.12 GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RATINGS BY OFFICE OWNERSHIP ........................... 116
3.13 GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RATINGS BY ENVIRONMENTAL
INTEREST ............................................................................................................... 119
3.14 GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RATINGS .................................................................. 122
3.15 GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RANKINGS ............................................................... 133

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LIST OF FIGURES IN TEXT
Figure
Page
CHAPTER 3
3.1 STAFF ACCESS TO OFFICE EQUIPMENT/FURNITURE ............................................. 65
3.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVITY OF STAFF IN THE WORKPLACE ............................ 68
3.3(a) PAPER USAGE, PRINTING AND STORAGE BEHAVIOUR ......................................... 70
3.3(bi) ENERGY/ELECTRICITY USAGE BEHAVIOUR ............................................................ 72
3.3(c) WASTE MANAGEMENT BEHAVIOUR ..................................................................... 76
3.3(d) RECYCLING BEHAVIOUR ......................................................................................... 78
3.3(e) WATER USAGE BEHAVIOUR ................................................................................... 80
3.3(f) ETHICAL FOOD CONSUMPTION BEHAVIOUR ........................................................ 81
3.3(g) RESPONSIBLE TRAVELING BEHAVIOUR ................................................................. 82
3.4 KNOWLEDGE OF ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS SIGNS POSTED
ON UNISA’S CAMPUS ............................................................................................. 83
3.5 WILLINGNESS OF RESPONDENTS TO ADOPT ENVIRONMENTALLY
FRIENDLY MEASURES ............................................................................................. 87
3.6 LEVEL OF RESPONSIBILITY TOWARDS DEVELOPING A SUSTAINABLE
WORK ENVIRONMENT ........................................................................................... 87
3.7 STAFFS’ PERCEPTION OF ‘GREEN’ CITIZENSHIP ..................................................... 88
3.8 PRIORITY LEVELS GIVEN TO ‘GREEN’ ISSUES BY UNISA ........................................ 89
3.9 SUSTAINABLE OFFICE PRACTICES IN THE WORKPLACE NEEDING
HIGH PRIORITY ATTENTION ................................................................................... 90
3.10 SUGGESTED INITIATIVES TO IMPROVE EXPOSURE AND KNOWLEDGE
ABOUT SUSTAINABLE OFFICE PRACTICES ............................................................. 93
3.11 PREFERENCES FOR COMMUNICATION MEDIUMS IN
COMMUNICATING ENVIRONMENTAL MESSAGES AT UNISA ............................... 95
3.12 RESPONSIBLE PURCHASE BEHAVIOUR ................................................................... 96

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LIST OF EXHIBITS IN TEXT
Exhibit
Page
CHAPTER 1
1.1 SAMPLE PLAN DESIGN FOR SUSTAINABLE OFFICE PRACTICE SURVEY ................... 4
1.2 SAMPLE PLAN DESIGN FOR SUSTAINABLE EDUCATION PRACTICE SURVEY ........ 10
1.3 SURVEY DEPARTMENTS ......................................................................................... 13
CHAPTER 2
2.1 ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE OFFICE PRACTICES OF INTERNATIONAL
UNIVERSITIES .......................................................................................................... 23
2.2 ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS PRACTICES OF SELECTED
TOP-100 COMPANIES ............................................................................................. 43
CHAPTER 4
4.1 UNISA BUILDINGS BY BUILDING LEVEL ................................................................ 150
4.2 EXAMPLES: E-COMMUNICATION MESSAGES ENCOURAGING GREEN
BEHAVIOUR .......................................................................................................... 163
CHAPTER 5
5.1 CRITICAL STEPS FOR CAMPUS SUSTAINABILITY PROGRAMME FOR UNISA ...... 175
5.2 ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE GUIDELINES ................................................ 183
5.3 POSTER EXAMPLES TO RAISE ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE
AWARENESS ......................................................................................................... 189

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LIST OF GRIDS IN TEXT
Grid
Page
CHAPTER 4
4.1 STATUS OF PRODUCT/SERVICE PROCUREMENT POLICY AT UNISA ................... 141
4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS OF AND COMMITMENT TO GREEN
PRODUCT/SERVICE PROCUREMENT AND USAGE ............................................... 143
4.3 ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE PRODUCT/SERVICE PURCHASE
PRACTICES, MONITORING MECHANISM AND AWARENESS STRATEGIES .......... 144
4.4 ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY, MISSION, TARGETS/ACTION PLANS TO
PROMOTE RESPONSIBLE ENERGY/WATER CONSUMPTION AND
PHILANTROPIC BEHAVIOUR ................................................................................. 147
4.5 STATUS OF SELECTED GREEN BUILDING PRACTICES ........................................... 152
4.6 STATUS ON GREEN MAINTENANCE AND INSTALLATION FUNCTIONS ............... 154
4.7 STATUS OF ENVIRONMENTAL FACILITIES AT UNISA ........................................... 156
4.8 ENERGY/WATER MONITORING MECHANISM AND STRATEGIES ....................... 157
4.9 IMPLEMENTATION/AWARENESS STRATEGIES OF GREEN PROJECTS/
INITIATIVES ........................................................................................................... 159
4.10 ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ON CONFERENCING, CLEANING AND
CATERING FACILITIES ........................................................................................... 160
4.11 STATUS OF ICT GREEN POLICY/TARGETS/ACTION PLANS ON
SUSTAINABLE OFFICE PRACTICES ........................................................................ 162
4.12 ICT SUPPORT TO ENSURE AND ENCOURAGE RESPONSIBLE USAGE OF
OFFICE EQUIPMENT ............................................................................................. 164
4.13 ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY, TARGETS AND ACTION PLANS: STUDY
MATERIAL, PRINT, PRODUCTION AND DELIVERY ............................................... 163
4.14 GREEN COMMUNICATION POLICY, TARGETS AND ACTION PLANS ................... 169
4.15 COMMUNICATION STRATEGY FOR GREEN AWARENESS AND
MARKETING .......................................................................................................... 171

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
INTRODUCTION
The United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) was signed by Unisa in 2008 and consists of 10
principles to improve corporate citizenship amongst public, private and civil-society entities.
The UNGC principles focus on human rights, labour standards, the environment and anticorruption
initiatives. In so far as the environment as major focus of this study is concerned,
the UNGC principles (principles 7 – 9) state that businesses should support a precautionary
approach to environmental challenges, undertake initiatives to promote greater environmental
responsibility and encourage the development and diffusion of environmentally friendly
technologies. Against this background, and in an attempt to build a sustainable environmental
business model and image, Unisa will be continuously challenged to promote itself as an
environmentally friendly organisation that embraces a ‘green corporate mission’. In meeting
this endeavour, Unisa will be expected to absorb the perceived pressure emerging from society,
government and business to act in an environmentally responsible manner. As is evident from
past environmental research, Unisa’s priority focus should precipitate at employee and
institutional levels. In fact, past empirical research shows that the successful implementation
of sustainable environmental practices by business could contribute to, among others,
improved staff morale, cost savings and corporate image building.
STUDY FOCUS
The focus of this study is multi-dimensional with the following as foremost:
• Investigating ‘best’ sustainable environmental practices pursued by leading universities
and corporate business to guide the construction of an environmental sustainability
policy, action plans and goals for a green Unisa campus.
• Investigating sustainable environmental office practices among Unisa employees.
• Investigating the potential and extent of infusion of environmental education (content
and skills) into existing courses.
• Investigating sustainable environmental service practices at Unisa.

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Clearly the scope of the study outlined above reflects a very broad comprehensive
environmental awareness assessment and is regarded as a pioneer study within the higher
education institution sector of South Africa.
An overview of the environmental aspects researched during the primary research phase in
particularis provided below. Firstly, the study focuses on sustainable environmental office
practices as displayed through the level of responsible behaviour of Unisa staff as well as their
willingness to adopt such practices and receptiveness towards environmental issues.
following aspects were investigated in detail:
The
• Environmental interest, awareness and behaviour.
• Environmental consciousness and awareness.
• Green office behaviour with specific reference to paper, printing and storage (ie
recycling of paper, double-sided printing/photocopying, electronic filing); energy/
electricity (ie switching off office lights, personal computers (PCs), monitors, printers,
photocopiers); waste (ie use of paper, packaging boxes, old files/folders and envelopes);
recycling (ie recycling paper, CDs, printer/toner cartridges); water (ie water usage for
heating purposes and consumption as well as the sparing use of water); food (organic or
eco-friendly food/beverage consumption at work) and travelling (travel behaviour,
involvement levels in video conferencing and phone meetings).
• Staff’s perceptions of the level of priority that Unisa gives to ‘green’ issues.
• Staff proposals on priority environmentally friendly office practices (ie energy/water
waste reduction and investment in low carbon energy supplies and technologies) and
initiatives to improve staff exposure to and knowledge about sustainable environmental
office practices at Unisa (ie awareness campaigns, training sessions, workshops,
seminars, etc).
• Staff proposals on effective methods of communicating environmental messages at
Unisa (ie Unisa newsletter, Website, e-mail, brochures, workshops/meetings, manager/
supervisor videos, training programmes and bulletin boards).

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The academic community involved in the environmental education survey was also challenged
by the following topics:
• The possibility of incorporating environmental awareness into critical cross-field
outcomes.
• The extent that environmental awareness is embedded in critical cross-field
outcomes in current curricula/courses.
• The extent that environmental awareness is embedded in critical cross-field
outcomes in the revised Programme Qualification Mix (PQM).
• Environmental issues that are already included or should be mainstreamed in
curricula/courses.
• Anticipation of problems with incorporating an environmental module into module mix
of a degree qualification.
To secure a balanced approach, service departments’ responsibilities towards creating an
environmentally friendly office environment conducive to responsible staff behaviour were also
explored to round off the study. More specifically, policy guidelines as well as the
implementation of sustainable environmental strategies and the management and
communication thereof, were explored as key features of the first sustainable environmental
research study conducted by Unisa and probably within the higher education sector of South
Africa. Not only were service departments investigated in terms of environmentally friendly
business service practices but also on the extent to which awareness and knowledge are
generated to encourage sustainable environmental business service practices among staff.
Other topic matters addressed in the business services study included:
• Green product/service procurement
• Environmental monitoring/control
• Green infrastructure/facilities
• Green building maintenance and installation of green office products/equipment
• Environmental facilities
• Effective environmental communication

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The outcomes of the survey findings emerging from the secondary (chapter 2) and primary
(chapters 3 and 4) research phases are anticipated to guide Unisa in formulating a sustainable
environmental policy and concomitantly, guide future strategies on sustainable environmental
office and service practices in particular.
EXPLORATORY RESEARCH PHASE
In principle, the goals of sustainable environmental practices at a university and in a business
enterprise do not actually differ. However, no two organisations are exactly alike and the
development of sustainable ‘green’ programmes will inevitably reflect organisational issues/
priorities relevant to the organisation being investigated. Notwithstanding these differences,
the observation of sustainable environmental practices of pioneer entities during the
exploratory research phase revealed that many prototypes are available to Unisa to support it
in its endeavours to construct a sustainable environmental policy and develop green strategies,
goals and action plans.
Against this background, the study explored sustainable environmental practices of 10 of the
world’s leading research universities as well as green practices of corporate businesses
featuring among the top-100 market capitalisation companies on the Johannesburg Securities
Exchange (JSE). The extent to which sustainable environmental business practices are
implemented by leading international universities and the corporate world is evidence of their
commitment to ‘green’ business practices, offering a ‘business case’ for such practices to Unisa.
It is clear from the secondary research among international universities and large businesses
that entities are generally becoming more aware of environmental issues and are increasingly
becoming more proactive on environmental matters. In general, entities show high
commitment levels to designing formal environmental management systems and
environmental auditing programmes and many nowadays produce environmental reports for
public consumption. These shared examples highlighted in chapter 2 (secondary research
phase) provide sustainable environmental business strategies, goals and initiatives that are
successfully pursued by other entities and which could certainly contribute to Unisa’s own
mission of improving green campus life.

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In summary the exploratory research phase as discussed in chapter 2, aimed at presenting a
framework for designing a sustainable environmental policy as well as green strategies and
goals and implementation and action plans for Unisa. Examples of sustainable environmental
policies, goals and action plans are displayed in annexure A. It is clear from the exploratory
research phase that environmental sustainability is currently an important aspiration in society
and all companies should strive to achieve their environmental goals. An institution such as
Unisa also has the potential to improve efficiency, productivity and the status of the university
through environmentally friendly means. However, environmental sustainability cannot be
achieved overnight, and businesses, including Unisa, will increasingly be challenged to adapt
rapidly to changing conditions. To be successful, commitment towards sustainable
environmental practices at Unisa is required from both management and staff.
PRIMARY RESEARCH PHASE
Alongside the exploratory research phase, the Unisa environmentally sustainable practice study
mainly explored the following additional dimensions:
• The sustainable environmental office practices of Unisa employees
• The potential and extent of infusion of environmental education (content and skills) into
existing courses
• Sustainable environmental business service practices at Unisa
The different research methodologies applied for these major areas investigated in the study
are highlighted below.
Sustainable environmental office practices survey
For the sustainable environmental office practice research study, a quantitative selfadministrated
Web-based survey among all academic, professional and administrative staff of
Unisa was conducted.

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Sustainable environmental education practices survey
For the survey on sustainable environmental education practices, online bulletin boards were
designed. These bulletin boards were electronically designed and allowed participants to
exchange information on research topic matters on environmental education. The academic
community invited to participate in the environmental education survey included the Vice-
Principal: Academic and Research; Academic Planner; Directorate: Curriculum and Learning
Development; school directors and college academics: directors and heads of departments.
Sustainable environmental business service practices survey
As with the environmental education practice survey, modified online bulletin boards were
designed to engage with the purposively sampled respondents from various internal Unisa
departments. These included the departments of Finance (Financial Accounting, Procurement
and Special Projects); University Estates (Infrastructure Management and Maintenance);
Support Services (Conference, Cleaning and Catering Service Division); Information,
Communication and Technology (Operations, User Support Services, Portal and Academic
Solutions); Study Material, Print, Production and Delivery (Unisa Press, Language Services,
Sound, Video and Photography, Despatch and Print Production) and Corporate Communication
and Marketing.
Due to the fact that different service departments deal with specific service responsibilities,
different bulletin boards directed at specific, carefully sampled, service departments were
designed. Once the various service departments’ online bulletin boards (or newsgroups) were
designed, one or more strategically positioned respondents were recruited within each
department. This process was followed by an e-mail invitation directing respondents to the
bulletin board. More specifically, a routine bulletin board approach was used whereby
participants were requested to refer any topic matter that they were unable to address to
‘other’ colleagues within their specific service department. This snowball sampling approach
insured that all environmental sustainability issues posted on the bulletin boards were
addressed. It is also important to mention that in-depth follow-up personal face-to-face

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interviews were conducted with strategically positioned staff members across different service
departments. The aim of these interviews was to verify uncertain and incomplete responses
emerging from the bulletin board survey with the aim of gaining as much usable information as
originally anticipated.
PRIMARY RESEARCH FINDINGS
The core outcomes of the primary research phase are summarised below.
Unisa staff ‘green’ office behavior
Both admirable green behaviour and less desirable practices among Unisa staff emerged from
the findings of the sustainable environmental office practices survey. These are captured
below.
Research focus
Admired ‘green’ staff practices
Unisa staff often:
Less desirable staff practices
Unisa staff never or seldom:
Paper usage, printing and storage • Use colour printing only when necessary • Set default to double-sided
• Send e-mails instead of memos/letters on photocopying
paper
• Set default to double-sided printing
• Make revisions on-screen before printing • Use laptops to view documents or
in hard copy
record minutes during meetings
instead of using hard copy
Energy/electricity • Switch off lights when leaving office in • Use work cell phone to connect to
the evening
Internet to read/send e-mails/
• Switch off computers when leaving office documents
at day-end
• Use private cell phone to connect to
• Switch off PC monitor overnight/end of Internet to read/send e-mails/
day
documents
• Remove plugs from the sockets(s) used
for office electronic systems everyday
Waste management • Dispose of litter responsibly
• Use of e-waste facility
• Use own drinking mug for coffee/tea • Separate office waste paper from
• Re-use internal Unisa envelopes
other waste material
• Re-use refillable pens/pencils
Recycling behaviour • Shred and recycle CDs
• Recycle empty aluminium cans and
shredded documents
Water usage • Use water wisely and sparingly • Consider the potential of water
contamination

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Based on the survey outcomes of the sustainable environmental office practices survey it is
evident that Unisa staff should be encouraged to continue exercising the following green office
practices:
• Electricity (switching off PC monitors, switching off heaters during winter-time,
switching off lights when leaving offices at day-end)
• Paper usage (send e-mails instead of memos and letters on paper)
• Waste (using own cups/utensils for office functions and own drinking mugs for
coffee/tea as opposed to disposables, re-use of Unisa envelopes and use water sparingly
and responsibly)
In turn, Unisa staff need to be encouraged to improve on the following behaviour:
• Energy usage (cellphone usage to connect to Internet and read/send e-mails/documents
electronically; remove plugs from sockets used for office electronic systems; switch off
PC monitors when leaving office at all times; fax directly from computer)
• Paper usage (set photocopier on default to allow for double-side photocopying)
• Recycling (shred CDs; recycle unused CDs and aluminium cans; install recycle bins in
departments; encourage use of Unisa’s recycle bin; recycle shredded documents)
• Travelling (encourage travelling by car pool and bus)
• Waste (encourage use of e-waste facility)
Staff/Unisa promotion of green issues
Overall, Unisa staff seem most willing to adopt environmentally friendly measures (ie recycling,
energy/waste conservation, etc) at work. A further promising finding that emerged is that
approximately three quarters of the survey participants indicated that they regard themselves
as responsible for developing a environmentally sustainable work environment. However, staff
show fairly low confidence levels in Unisa’s ability to promote ‘green’ issues. Approximately
two thirds of the survey participants indicated that Unisa gives no (17.1 %) or low (50.6 %)
priority to ‘green’ issues. Unisa staff were also eager to gain knowledge about environmentally

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friendly sustainable office practices at Unisa. The top five priorities in this regard include
recycling programmes, awareness programmes, tip posters outlining green behaviour (eg
recycling tip poster), an environmental management policy and training to use printers and
photocopiers to optimise paper usage.
Green communication
Survey participants were also offered an opportunity to rate the effectiveness of various
mediums for communicating environmental messages at Unisa. In this regard, e-mail topped
the list as most effective medium to communicate environmental messages at Unisa. Least
effective were brochures and videos.
Sustainable environmental education practices
The following was evident from the survey results emerging from the environmental education
bulletin board interviews among the Unisa academic community:
• Strong, though some reserved support (although in some cases only on an informal
level) for the incorporation of environmental awareness into critical cross-field
outcomes for all qualifications.
• Environmental awareness is rarely embedded in critical cross-field outcomes of current
curricula/courses although this may vary, depending on the qualification or module (see
modules listed above).
• Environmental awareness is not extensively embedded in the critical cross-field
outcomes of the revised Programme Qualification Mix (PQM).
• Suggested environmental issues to be included into some but not all curricula/courses
include, amongst others, corporate governance and environmentally sustainability
reporting; energy conservation, global warming and waste management.
• Currently no space for available to incorporating an environmental module into the
module mix of a degree qualification.

xviii
Against this background, the study suggests that the Unisa academic community needs to be
sensitised on environmental education and be guided on how to incorporate environmental
issues into study material. Furthermore, ideological academic barriers regarding the
environment need to be addressed as real commitment and interest in environmental issues
has not yet emerged at all levels, although some progress in terms of environmental awareness
is notable. In addition, signs that industry’s environmental awareness is changing progressively,
have probably created a further need for environment-conscious students.
Sustainable environmental business service practices
The sustainable environmental business service practices survey among internal Unisa
departments revealed both encouraging and less desirable business service practices across
various service departments. An abridged overview of these is provided below.
Service area Encouraging ‘green’ service practices Less desirable service practices
Procurement • High claimed awareness among Unisa • No official policy on sustainable
staff members of UNGC environmental environmental procurement practices
principles
• No preferential policy on purchases of
• High levels of future commitment to ‘green’ or ‘energy saving’ office
support ‘green’ product/service equipment/stationery
procurement
• Little effort to create awareness of
• Some monitoring mechanisms are in energy/water consumption levels
place to measure energy/water among staff
consumption
Unisa Estates • Energy efficiency campaign among staff
to switch of lights at day-end
• Power factor correction measures.
• Switching off of unrequired air
conditioning
• Load control measures
• Variable speed drives on air
conditioning units
• Implementing occupational sensors.
• Limiting heaters programme
• Shut-off all warm water in some
bathrooms
• Waste water from bathrooms and rain
water is discharged into gardens
• Donates used office furniture to local
charities/schools and communities
• No formal sustainable environmental
policy on electricity/ water consumption
• Limited incidence of switching off of
computers, monitors, printers, copy
machines and wall sockets
• Security lights (flood lights) at Unisa
burn during the day
• Geysers and boilers are not switched off
overnight and weekends

xix
Service area Encouraging green service practices Less desirable green service practices
Unisa Estates
Infrastructure and facilities
• Natural light is used very efficiently in
office designs
• Maintenance of office plants is currently
not up to standard
• Building plans for new office space also
maximise the use of natural light
• Unisa conducts annual air quality tests
in offices and monitors trends
• Two air-flow charges per hou.
Unisa Estates
Maintenance and installation
Unisa Estates
Environmental facilities
Unisa Estates
Environmental
monitoring/control
Conferencing, Cleaning, and
Catering service
Information and
Communication Technology
(ICT)
Print, Production and Delivery
services
• Unisa regularly maintains light fixtures
• Replacing incandescent lights with low
energy globes
• Unisa’s gardens contain various
indigenous plants
• E-waste facility
• Centrally based paper waste facility
• Video conferencing facilities
• Unisa monitors its energy and water
consumption levels via power factor
measurements
• Unisa waters gardens regularly and uses
timed and manual garden water
systems
• Line managers encourage staff to set
computers to default double-sided
printing
• Old personal computers and other
electronic equipment are destroyed
• Old computers are donated to schools
• Empty cartridges are handed in and
refilled
• There are self-training programmes to
guide staff to create their own e-mail
signatures
• E-mail communication messaging is
accompanied by a ‘green’ message
• Availability of wireless Internet
connections
• Minimising waste via the availability of
fully digital CD/DVDs and full-on digital
printing
Corporate Communication • Use e-cards for invitations to
events/functions
• Irregular watering of office plants
• Timed-water garden system remains on
during rainy days
• Invader plants are still present in some
gardens
• Location and safety of the waste facility
under suspicion
• Low awareness levels of e-waste facility
• No waste facilities for ie glass, aluminum
cans, etc
• No effective communication to
encourage improved responsible
energy/water usage
• No energy/water saving strategy
• Attempts to create environmental
awareness seem fairly limited
• No environmental policy, guideline or
green mission statements
• Lack of an official sustainable
environmental policy
• The practice of using electronic rather
than paper-based communication has
not yet featured at all levels in Unisa
• Limited guidance and training to
encourage the responsible use of office
equipment
• No formal policy
• No campaigns to save water and
consume less electricity
• No form of encouragement to re-use
paper, old files, folders and envelopes.
• Unisa currently has no ‘green’ corporate
gifts

xx
Green office behaviour rankings
Based on the outcome of the environmentally friendly office behaviour and business practices
survey, the study ultimately constructed a green rating model for Unisa. This model ranks
green office behaviour and business practices by major themes according to corresponding
average index scores. Index scores range from 0 to 100 with index scores 0 - 25; 26 - 50; 51 - 75
and 76 - 100 representing a poor, moderate, good and excellent green status respectively. The
outcome of the green rating model for sustainable office behaviour and business practices
constructed for the Unisa study is outlined below. It should be noted that the model clusters
the items by rating category where ‘red’, ‘orange’, ‘light green’ and ‘dark green’ depict ‘poor’,
moderate, good and ‘excellent’ green behaviour respectively.
GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RANKING
GREEN BUSINESS SERVICE RANKING
Average
48
Average
22
Travelling
Food
29
40
Communication and
Marketing
15
Water
71
ICT
15
Recycling
28
Conference, Cleaning
and Catering
25
Waste
Energy/electricity
Paper, printing and
storage
61
49
53
0 20 40 60 80 100
Estates: Building
Maintenance and
Landscaping
Product/Service
Procurement
45
10
0 50 100

xxi
The green office behaviour and environmentally friendly business service ratings reflected
above clearly classify Unisa as a ‘moderate’ green citizen. Against this background, numerous
recommendations on how Unisa can improve its ‘green’ status and image emerged from the
study. These recommendations are captured below.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Besides presenting an overview and ranking of the green status of business practices, the
research investigation also identified future factors aspects to be considered in developing a
green business model for Unisa. Many of the action plans highlighted are highly relevant and
should be considered in constructing an environmental policy, strategy and goals for Unisa.
Designing such a strategy not only requires inputs from service departments across the board,
but also buy-in by management. What is becoming abundantly clear is that Unisa will
increasingly come under pressure to start implementing such a strategy. Obviously such an
endeavour will require careful planning and budgeting to support an attractive return on
investment on ‘going’ green. Should Unisa succeed in articulating and implementing the
desired policy and strategy, it could also serve as a very powerful marketing tool to enhance
Unisa’s reputation as a good ‘green’ corporate citizen.
The green office behaviour rankings presented above clearly reflect considerable room for
improvement in areas such as recycling, travelling, food and electricity/energy. Specific areas
identified for immediate action were highlighted as part of the discussion on the section dealing
with Unisa staff ‘green’ office behaviour. Supplementary to these, additional ideas/suggestions
emanating from the study on how to improve sustainable business service practices are
outlined below.

xxii
Business service area
Ideas/suggestions for imporvement
Procurement • Investigate the transportation status of current courier services providers in
terms of responsibility and consider this status in evaluating Unisa’s service
procurement process.
• Negotiate purchases of environmentally friendly products (ie paper, stationery,
office equipment) with suppliers such as PURCO and ‘other’ product/service
providers.
• Raise awareness among staff of monthly energy/water consumption by
publishing (online via Corporate Communications and Marketing)
monthly/quarterly statistics on energy/water consumption. These could also
include statistics related to energy consumption levels on an hourly basis.
• Develop formal policies on sustainable environmental business service practices
with specific reference to product/service procurement as well as sustainable
environmental building construction practices and maintenance.
• Design and implement procurement practices with specific reference to the
purchase of recycled paper and environmentally friendly office equipment/
stationery.
Business service area
Ideas/suggestions for imporvement
Unisa Estates • Installl weather sensitive- garden watering system.
• Increase number of live office plants to improve air quality and office ambience.
• Encourage the use of water-based paints and avoid use of paints with a
chemical base.
• Use more environmentally friendly carpet glue.
• Purchase carpets manufactured from recycled materials.
• Water office plants more regularly.
• Switch off geysers and boilers overnight and weekends.
• Introduce weather sensitive garden watering system.
• Consider purchases of carpets manufactured from recycled materials.
• Encourage ‘greener’ building roof tops.
Conference, cleaning and • Implement a on-site recycling system.
catering services
• Introduce (glass, cans, plastic) and maintain (paper and cardboard) recycling
facilities and brand these separately at departmental and individual office level.
• Introduce separate recycling waste bins for plastics, glass, paper and cans to
encourage recycling and build awareness among staff about the importance and
benefits (ie using recycled materials saves trees, recycling saves landfill space
and energy and creates jobs) of recycling.
• Relocate or improve security measures at e-waste facilities.
• Encourage the use of environmentally friendly cleaning products.
• Introduce a food separation project for waste foods.
• Negotiate with contracted catering service provider(s) about the increased
availability of ethical food/beverages at Unisa cafeterias as well as the
implementation of a vending cup recycling scheme.
• Introduce vending cup recycling scheme and encourage use of own mugs in
vending machines.
• Obtain sponsors to support dedicated waste management projects by cobranding
waste bins for paper, plastics, glass and cans.
• Improve on-site management at waste areas and improve on general upkeep of
waste areas.
• Consider vermicultural projects to recycle green and other organic waste.

xxiii
Information and
Communication Technology
(ICT)
Business service area
Study Material, Print,
Production and Delivery
services
• Implement a reliable centralised digital facility for departmental and individual
filing.
• Provide laptops to staff members with a view to eliminating the printing of
documents for meetings (replacement plan in place).
• Accept e-mails as equivalent to hard-copy signed documents.
• Implement regional e-collaboration.
• Develop a paperless student society.
• Consolidation all servers.
• Allow for e-receipts for student payments.
• Improve attempts to support and educate staff to use printers or photocopiers
responsibly to reduce waste.
• Submit all HR forms (ie leave forms, sick leave forms, etc) electronically.
Ideas/suggestions for imporvement
• Publish e-textbooks.
• Implement a paper waste management system in print production directorate.
• Recycle bins next to photocopiers.
• Improve staff awareness of environmentally friendly practices.
• Procure environmentally friendly courier services for study material delivery
and building contractors for new buildings and maintenance (ie purchase timed
taps for bathrooms to save water).
Corporate Communications • Include green message as part of all e-mail communication.
• Expand events promoting environmental consciousness (ie Earth Day, Unisa
Recycle day, Global Climate Week, etc).
• Develop a ‘green’ awareness campaign whereby ‘green’ messages are
continuously shared via Unisa’s internal communication system (Intcom).
• Inform staff on monthly energy, water and paper consumption patterns to
encourage more responsible usage. In short, inform, educate and raise
awareness among staff.
• Expand corporate gifts to include ‘green’ gifts such as thermal mugs.
• Create a Unisa Website or page dedicated to environmental issues.
• Start a sustainability blog among staff.
• Consider a ‘green’ competition among staff or departments.
• Obtain sponsors to support a dedicated waste management system by cobranding
waste bins for paper, plastics, glass and cans.
• Market Unisa’s green achievements more aggressively in the national media.
• Improve green communication practices to raise staff awareness of, among
others, procurement practices, energy/water conservation, use and re-use of
paper and paper products (ie envelopes, cardboards), ‘green’ projects/initiatives
etc.
• Introduce ‘green’ corporate gifts.
• Develop poster signs to create awareness of environmental issues/projects.
A positive outcome of the study is high levels of staff commitment towards sustainable
environmental practices. Since almost eight in 10 staff members claim to be eco-conscious as a
result of efforts outside Unisa, the institution is further challenged to improve its own efforts to
raise awareness on sustainable environmental practices among staff. Also, line managers are

xxiv
encouraged to promote environmental awareness and responsibility in the workplace.
Furthermore, Unisa could also consider implementing a ‘green’ induction programme for new
personnel. Finally, a major challenge is the development of sustainable environmental
education products as part of the curricula/courses presented by Unisa. More specifically, the
university community needs to be sensitised on environmental education and be guided on
how to incorporate environmental issues into study material.
Although the research model does not report students’ involvement in creating an
environmentally friendly campus at Unisa, staff members are keen to raise awareness and
involve students in environmental projects/initiatives. Other stakeholder groups not featuring
prominently in the study, but which should be included are those already involved in
environmental projects. Examples in this regard include the Plastics Federation of South Africa
(PFSA), the PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) Recycling Company (Pty) Ltd, Plastics Industry
Enviromark, Collect-a-can, the Paper Recycling Association of South Africa (PRASA), the Glass
Recycling Company, the Polystyrene Packaging Council, the National Recycling Forum, e-Waste
Association of South Africa (eWASA) and the Green Building Council.
DEVELOPING A GREEN CAMPUS SUSTAINABLE PROGRAMME
The suggested critical steps required to develop a green campus programme for Unisa is
outlined in exhibit A.
EXHIBIT A
CRITICAL STEPS FOR CAMPUS SUSTAINABILITY PROGRAMME FOR UNISA
• Mapping current situation and developing a governance structure
• Measuring environmental impacts
• Integrating campus activities
• Determining goals and strategies
• Establishing strategies to create a environmentally friendly campus
• Education and awareness

xxv
The underlying goal of a green campus programme should be to mainstream environmental
management into the operational and academic activities of the university. An appropriate
governance structure should be established, which is supported by Executive Management and
representative of the campus community. In this regard the notion of introducing an Office of
Environmental Sustainability (OES) which directly reports to the Principal and Vice Chancellor’s
and Vice Principals’ offices at Unisa is supported by this study. The development of a
sustainability programme will require OES to identify all key activities that impact on the
university environmental footprint and establish measures to determine the level of that
impact. In addition, OES will be responsible for integrating all green campus activities at Unisa
and for developing an underlying policy framework that articulates the university’s overall
commitment to environmental improvement and leadership. This framework will provide a
foundation for the operational and cultural changes that are needed to mainstream
sustainability at Unisa. OES will also be challenged to establish an informed and ecologically
literate campus community that could drive institutional change. The intent is to build from
making community members aware of environmental issues to educating them about how they
can influence environmental performance through behavioural change.
IMMEDIATE, SHORT-, MEDIUM- AND LONG-TERM STRATEGIES
In summary the following immediate, short-, medium- and long-term measures are suggested.
Immediate action • Conduct a dedicated ‘green’ or environmental audit for Unisa to serve as a baseline for a
dedicated environmental plan specifying ‘green’ campus goals and action plans.
• Design and implement an environmental sustainability policy for Unisa.
• Implement a comprehensive two-hour inclusive environmental induction programme.
Short-term measures • Conduct an intensified awareness campaign among Unisa employees to save energy on
campus.
Medium-term measures • Implement monitoring measures to ensure that Unisa’s peak demand is lowered and that
buildings demand less energy.
• Encourage clients and suppliers to illustrate their contribution towards green building
principles.
• Install electricity and water meters in all buildings, especially new buildings.
• Improve indoor environment quality and monitor ergonomic factors as key to developing a
work environment conducive to long-term employment.

xxvi
Long-term measures • Give preference to the appointment of building consultants and contractors who are
committed to green building principles and who can provide proof of projects where
contributions to this effect have already been made.
• Ensure that all new construction projects are based on recognised green building principles.
• Use grey water (from roofs and air conditioning equipment) in toilets, for cooling, etc.
• Introduce measures such as rooftop gardens (to augment green space)
• Use natural-light
• Install energy-efficient windows, water-efficient toilets, use recycled water for sprinklers and
toilets
• Introduce indoor landscaping (to improve air quality), etc.
CONCLUSION
The concept of sustainability is, to say the least, contentious. Debates have been ongoing in
various circles (ie academia, business, government etc) for a number of years about exactly
how to define sustainability and, more importantly, about what it should entail in practice.
Unfortunately, to date there is no authoritative blue-print for ‘sustainable behaviour’.
However, what has become clear is that social, environmental and governance factors are
increasingly relevant to financial performance and that companies that show superior
management of these issues are fast gaining an edge over their competitors. Also, being
environmentally responsible is becoming a driver of customer choice and more South African
business leaders, consumers and politicians are pursuing the tenets of green causes. In this
regard, Unisa is no exception and has already demonstrated its commitment by endorsing the
UNGC principles, focusing on, among others, the environment. This study provides clear
guidelines on how to formalise the process and design a sustainable environmental policy,
strategy and programme for Unisa. The study presents a clear framework to guide the
institution towards, among others, conserving energy, saving water, recycling, responsible
paper usage and filing, sustainable transport, purchasing, etc. The implementation of green
office strategies should be considered in conjunction with the potential cost implications of
purchasing ‘green’ office equipment in particular. Such decision making should also be
accompanied by considering the safety and health aspects of Unisa staff. This poses a direct
challenge to Unisa to synchronise policies related to these aspects in support of a healthy, safe
and green campus environment.

xxvii
The study outcomes have also been presented to raise awareness among all Unisa
stakeholders. In support of this endeavour, it is recommended that all Unisa departments be
supplied with an electronic copy of the research results. In this regard, the research findings
should be uploaded on the UN and Unisa Websites and staff should be encouraged to peruse
the report online (green behaviour).
Overall, it is anticipated that the designed policy framework on environmental sustainability as
well as the strategies and programmes that will emanate from this research will be received
with the necessary commitment by staff at all levels and in all fields of work. It is also hoped
that staff will practise responsible behaviour outside the direct work environment. ‘Greener’
lifestyles and ‘green’ corporate citizenship could support Unisa in building brand equity among
all stakeholder groups.
REPORT LAYOUT
Chapter 1 outlines the aims and research methodology of the Unisa sustainable environmental
study. In an attempt to guide Unisa in terms of sustainable ‘green’ business practices followed
by other universities and the corporate business world, chapter 2 elaborates in more detail on
some best practices of ‘green’ businesses. Chapter 3 presents a discussion on the outcome of
the 2009 sustainable environmental office practices study at Unisa. This is followed by a
discussion of the research results emanating from bulletin board interviews for the sustainable
environmental education practice survey among the Unisa academic community and the
sustainable environmental business practice survey among selected internal service
departments (chapter 4). Chapter 5 presents a summary of the entire research study as well as
some recommendations based on the findings. Finally, some examples of environmental
policies, environmental action plans and goals are presented in annexure A.

1
CHAPTER 1
AIMS AND METHODOLOGY OF THE STUDY
1.1 INTRODUCTION
Sustainability entails a business approach that recognises economic, environmental
and social objectives. It defines who an organisation is and how it operates.
Sustainable business practices should be regarded not only as an ethical but also a
business choice. In an attempt to build a sustainable environmental friendly
business image, Unisa will continuously be challenged to promote itself as an
environmentally friendly organisation that embraces a ‘green corporate mission’. In
meeting this endeavour, Unisa will be expected to absorb the perceived pressure
emerging from society, government and business to act in an environmentally
responsible manner. As is evident from past environmental research, Unisa’s priority
focus should precipitate at employee and institutional levels. In fact, past empirical
research shows that the successful implementation of sustainable environmental
practices by business could contribute to, among others, improved staff morale, cost
savings and corporate image building.
Past empirical research on sustainable environmental practices indicates that the
following aspects are the primary drivers of a successful strategy:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
the building itself (ie insulation and energy-efficient equipment)
the management of the building (providing recycling, being well maintained)
behaviour of building users (management and staff)
This study investigates these priority areas with the purpose of not only raising staff
awareness but also to provide a baseline to measure progress towards awareness
regarding environmental issues among Unisa staff. More specifically, the study
focuses on sustainable environmental office practices as displayed through the level
of responsible behaviour of Unisa staff as well as their willingness and receptiveness
towards environmental issues. To secure a balanced approach,

2
service departments’ responsibilities towards creating a sustainable office
environment conducive to responsible staff behaviour are also explored to round off
the comprehension of the study. More specifically, policy guidelines as well as the
implementation of sustainable environmental strategies and the management and
communication thereof, were also explored as key features of the first sustainable
environmental research study conducted by Unisa. The outcome of these initial
findings is anticipated to guide Unisa in formulating a sustainable environmental
policy to guide future strategies on sustainable environmental office and
institutional practices in particular.
1.2 OBJECTIVES AND RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES
The primary objective of the research study is dualistic. Firstly, the study explores
the sustainable environmental office practices of Unisa employees. On the one
hand, the monitoring of such employee behaviour provides an ideal platform to
measure the extent of contemporary sustainable environmental office practices at
Unisa. On the other, it also provides an ideal basis to design a sustainable
environmentally responsible rating tool to position Unisa as excellent, good,
moderate or poor in terms of responsible office behaviour. In fact, such an approach
also identifies areas of environmental consciousness that could be built upon and
areas previously neglected where environmental consciousness should be cultivated.
Such information will be ideal to support planning during the initial phases of
developing a sustainable environmental programme and ultimately a sustainable
environmental policy for Unisa. Furthermore, the research design also provided
scope to explore, especially among the Unisa academic community, the potential
and extent of infusion of environmental education (content and skills) into existing
courses. The latter focus secured special attention on the extent to which academic
products incorporate environmental content and associated skills without
jeopardising the integrity of the courses. The equilibrium of the research model was
finally reached by including a focus on sustainable environmental service practices at
Unisa. As core, this second major component of the research investigation focus on
sustainable environmental business service practices providing insight into the

3
extent that the work environment at Unisa is currently designed to support
responsible office behaviour by staff through the provision of the necessary policy
guidelines, infrastructure and maintenance as well as office equipment and its
related environmentally friendly features. This approach was also extended to
explore the nature of procurement policies, procedures and practices when
purchasing green office equipment or outsourcing catering and courier services.
Additional aspects investigated on the service level included the sustainability of
printing and production and study material packaging systems as well as biodiversity
and landscaping. Internal service provisioning was also explored in terms of
sustainable environmental communication policies, practices and preferences as
well as attempts to create awareness of and train employees in responsible office
behaviour and work practices.
1.3 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
As can be deduced from the introductory section and aims of the study, the research
model was designed to investigate sustainable environmental office behaviour at an
individual and institutional level. For the sustainable environmental office and
sustainable environmental education practice research components, a quantitative
survey among academic, professional and administrative staff of Unisa was
conducted. The research methodologies for these research phases are explained in
sections 1.3.1 and 1.3.2. This discussion is followed by an outline of the research
methodology applied in the investigation of sustainable environmental practices by
selected internal service departments at Unisa (see section 1.3.3).
1.3.1 Sustainable environmental office practice survey
The sampling plan for the sustainable environmental office practice survey among
Unisa staff is outlined in exhibit 1.1 below.

4
EXHIBIT 1.1
SAMPLE PLAN DESIGN FOR SUSTAINABLE OFFICE PRACTICE SURVEY
Components
Item description
(i) Sample population
• Sample units
Unisa staff with access to the Internet
• Sample elements Academic, professional and administrative staff
• Survey period July/August 2009
(ii) Data collection method Self-administrated Web-based interviews
(iii) Sampling methodology Convenience sampling whereby respondents self-select to participate
following an e-mail survey invitation
(iv) Sample frame Unisa staff lists
(v) Execution of sampling plan Unisa staff members were invited via e-mail to participate in the
survey for which the survey instrument (questionnaire) could be
retrieved via a Web-link providing direct access to the electronic
version of the questionnaire
In support of the sampling plan design, the research model for the internal staff
office survey was designed to focus on the following specifics:
(i)
Unisa office environment
In this section, the research instrument was designed to capture
individual/shared access of staff to various office equipment/furniture (ie
personal computer, laptop, printer, fax machine, photocopier, multi-purpose
machines, shredders, cellphones, airconditioners, bar fridges, fridges, hot
urns and coffee making machines). The significance of evaluating the direct
work environment of Unisa staff is founded on the importance of establishing
whether the work environment of employees is conducive to support any
form of ‘green’ office behaviour. For example, a staff member lacking access
to a laptop will find it very difficult to read documents electronically or attend
e-meetings away from office.
The section on the staff office environment was also broadened to
determine:
• access to live plants in offices to improve air quality

5
• the availability of natural light in offices to avoid/minimise the use of
electrical light
• the possibility of opening office windows to allow fresh air movement
in and stale air out
• self-management of switching off own office lights
• independent control of air conditioning systems
• access to and existence of hand-blow driers and paper towels in
bathrooms used most often by staff (once again this infrastructurerelated
focus was included to measure how conducive the direct and
indirect office environments are to allow, support and encourage
‘green’ behaviour)
(ii)
Environmental interest, awareness and behaviour
The research instrument for the sustainable office practice survey was also
designed to measure the environmental interest of staff with regards to their:
• reading behaviour on environmental issues
• viewing behaviour on environmental issues
• general interest in environmental issues
• ability to source information on environmental issues
Furthermore, the research model for the sustainable office practice survey
was designed to measure the extent to which environmental issues impact on
staff. Specific issues addressed and measured on the impact measurement
scale designed for this purpose include staff’s:
• annoyance with fluorescent lights
• sensitivity towards noise in the work place
• sensitivity towards air temperature at work
• sensitivity towards unnatural light
• sensitivity towards crowded work spaces

6
(iii)
Green office behaviour
Based on comprehensive exploratory research prior to concluding the final
research instrument, seven major focus areas were included as part of the
Unisa 2009 sustainable environmental office practice survey. Focus areas
included to measure sustainable environmental office practices are the
following:
• Paper, printing and storage
Issues covered here include, among others, recycling of paper,
programming of computer/printer defaults to double-sided
printing/photocopying, reading e-mails and documents on screen, use of
e-cards/post cards, electronic filing and the use of a laptop to view
documents electronically.
• Energy/electricity
Issues included here are, among others, switching off office lights,
personal computers (PCs), monitors, printers, photocopiers, air
conditioning and heaters when away from office. The focus was also
extended to include direct faxing to avoid printing, usage of screen savers
and removal of plugs from sockets used for electronic office systems
when absent from office.
• Waste
Issues included here are, among others, re-use of paper, packaging
boxes, old files/folders and envelopes. Other issues included the use of
disposable cups/utensils, own drinking mugs for coffee/tea, colour
printing as well as the use of PowerPoint presentations, cover sheets for
faxing and refillable pencils/pens. The focus was also broadened to
include disposal of litter and unwanted ‘junk-mail’.

7
• Recycling
Issues covered here included, among others, the usage of recycling bins,
recycling paper, CDs, printer/toner cartridges, empty aluminium cans,
empty plastic/glass bottles, as well as shredding CDs.
• Water
Issues included here are, among others, water usage for heating
purposes and consumption as well as the sparing use of water.
• Food
Issues included here are consumption of organic or eco-friendly
food/beverages at work.
• Travelling
Issues included here are, among others, participation levels in carpool
clubs, travel behaviour, involvement levels in video conferencing and
phone meetings as well as the cleanliness of company vehicles.
(iv)
Environmental consciousness and awareness
This section of the research model on sustainable environmental office
practices investigated:
• eco-consciousness of staff
• staff awareness of signs (energy and water saving and e-waste disposal)
around offices and on Unisa campuses)
• staff awareness of Unisa’s policy on sustainable environmental office
practices.
• staff knowledge levels of local indigenous plants used in garden
landscaping in South Africa
• support for the increased use of indigenous plants in landscaping of
campus gardens

8
• knowledge about and awareness of water wise gardening and invader
plants
(v)
Sustainable office practices
This section of the research model on sustainable environmental office
practices also differentiated between the internal office environment and the
broader institutional environment. In this regard, specific dimensions
included the following:
• Internal office environment
Issues included here are monthly consumption levels of paper used,
availability of documentation within departments that encourage green
office behaviour, line-managers’ encouragement of green office
behaviour, staff willingness to adopt environmentally friendly measures
and to act as ‘green’ ambassadors, perceived personal responsibility
towards developing a sustainable ‘green’ work environment at Unisa and
perceptions about own ‘greenness’ as compared to that of co-workers.
• Institutional environment
Issues addressed at this level include staff’s perceptions of:
o
o
o
the level of priority that Unisa gives to ‘green’ issues
priority suggestions for Unisa on sustainable office practices (ie
energy/water waste reduction and investment in low carbon energy
supplies and technologies)
initiatives to be considered by Unisa to improve staff exposure to
and knowledge about sustainable environmental office practices at
Unisa (ie awareness campaigns, training sessions, workshops,
seminars, environmental management policy, green induction
environmental education programmes, recycling programmes,
appointment of green teams/ambassadors, regular environmental

9
news, e-mail bulletins, tip posters, sustainable office and
environmental management Website)
o
most effective methods of communicating environmental messages
at Unisa (ie Unisa newsletter, Website, e-mail, brochures,
workshops/meetings, manager/supervisor videos, training
programmes and bulletin boards)
(vi)
Responsible consumerism
This section entailed the following:
• comparing staff’s environmentally consciousness at work and home
• green purchase behaviour (ie purchases of locally produced products,
recycled products, organically produced fruit and vegetable products and
organic groceries excluding fruit and vegetables (ie coffee, cereals, freerange
eggs, etc)
(vii)
Demographics
Finally, the research model for the sustainable environmental office practices
survey was designed to explore differences in green office behaviour by age,
gender, population/culture group, college, qualification and tenure. These
demographics were explored to test for different office behaviour by selected
demographics. These differences are explored in more detail in chapter 3.
1.3.2 Sustainable environmental education practices
The sampling plan for the sustainable environmental education practices survey
among the Unisa academic community is outlined in exhibit 1.2 below.

10
EXHIBIT 1.2
SAMPLE PLAN DESIGN FOR SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTAL
EDUCATION PRACTICE SURVEY
Components
Item description
(vi) Sample population
• Sample units
Unisa academic community
• Sample elements
Senior professional and academic staff
• Survey period July/August 2009
(vii) Data collection method Self-administrated bulleting board interviews
(viii) Sampling methodology Purposive sample of targeted senior professional and academic
staff
(ix) Sample frame Unisa staff list of professional and senior academics
(x) Execution of sampling plan Senior professionals and academics at Unisa were invited via e-
mail to participate in the bulletin board interviews
For the survey on sustainable environmental education practices, online bulletin
boards were designed to be utilised as interview instruments. These bulletin boards
were electronically designed and allowed participants to exchange information on
research topic matters on environmental education. The first step following the
online bulletin board (or newsgroups) design, was to screen, recruit and refer
respondents to the bulletin board via an e-mail invitation. This approach allowed
respondents to participate at their own convenience and time allowing thoughtful indepth
responses to the research questions posed.
For the sustainable environmental education practices survey, a carefully selected
sample of Unisa academics was requested to read, reply and comment on the
environmental education questions reflected in the bulletin board. The following
cluster groups within the academic community were invited to participate in the
environmental education survey:
• Vice-principal: Academic and Research
• Academic planner
• Directorate: Curriculum and Learning Development
• School directors
• College academics - directors and HODs

11
The academic community involved in the environmental education bulletin board
interviews were challenged by the following topics:
• The possibility of incorporating environmental awareness into critical cross-field
outcomes
• The extent that environmental awareness is embedded in critical cross-field
outcomes in current curricula/courses
• The extent that environmental awareness is embedded in critical cross-field
outcomes in the revised Programme Qualification Mix (PQM)
• Environmental issues that are already included or should be mainstreamed in
curricula/courses
• Anticipation of problems in incorporating an environmental module into module
mix of a degree qualification
The outcomes of the research findings related to these topics are discussed in more
detail in chapter 3.
1.3.3 Sustainable environmental practices of selected internal service departments
Alongside the sustainable environmental office behaviour and education practices
surveys, the research model was also designed to gain inputs on sustainable
environmental business service practices from various departments within Unisa. As
with the environmental education practice survey, modified online bulletin boards
were designed to engage with the purposively sampled respondents from various
internal Unisa departments. Due to the fact that different service departments deal
with specific service responsibilities, different bulletin boards directed at specific,
carefully sampled, service departments were designed. Once the various service
departments’ online bulletin boards (or newsgroups) were designed, one or more
strategically positioned respondents were recruited within each department. This
process was followed by an e-mail invitation directing respondents to the bulletin
board. More specifically, a routine bulletin board approach was used whereby
participants were requested to refer any topic matter that they were unable to

12
address to ‘other’ colleagues within their specific service department. This snowball
sampling approach insured that all sustainability issues posted on the bulletin boards
were addressed. The internal departments included in the survey as well as the
unique topic matters addressed by each bulletin board are outlined in exhibit 1.2.
It is also important to mention that in-depth follow-up personal face-to-face
interviews were conducted with strategically positioned staff members across
different service departments. The aim of these interviews was to verify uncertain
and incomplete responses with the aim of gaining as much usable information as
originally anticipated.
The outcomes of the research findings related to the topics highlighted in exhibit 1.2
are discussed in more detail in chapter 4.

13
EXHIBIT 1.3
SERVICE DEPARTMENTS
Department
• Finance Department including:
o Procurement Directorate
o Special Projects and Activity Based Costing and
Management (ABC/M) Directorate
Research focus
• Environmental policy
o Existence of environmental policies within department to guide ‘green’ product/service
procurement
o Existence of ‘green’ mission for department
o Environmental targets and action plans related to ‘green’ product/service procurement
o Existence of policy or guidelines for printing service providers
o Existence of policy/guidelines on purchases of office stationery
• Environmental awareness/commitment
o Extent of creating awareness across Unisa regarding ‘green’ product/service procurement
o Attempts to encourage/raise awareness to minimise paperwork, recycle paper, re-use old
files/folders and official envelopes
o Perceptions and commitment of staff to support ‘green’ product/service procurement
o Departmental obligations towards ‘green’ service/product procurement
• Green product/service procurement
o Preference for and actual purchases of ‘green’ or ‘energy saving’ labelled office
equipment/stationery
o Quantifying the reams of paper Unisa purchases/consumes monthly
o Preferential practices on purchases of recycled/virgin paper
o Quantifying Unisa’s monthly energy and water consumption levels
o Perceptions on availability and market distribution channelling of ‘green’ office equipment
o General suggestions to improve ‘green’ office procurement

14
Department
• Information and communication Technology (ICT)
Directorate including:
o Operations Department
o User Support Department
Research focus
• Environmental policy
o Existence of environmental policies on sustainable environmental office practices
o Existence of ‘green’ mission for department
o Setting of environmental targets/action plans to support sustainable environmental office
practices
o Existence of guidelines/policies to encourage the use of e-mail communication
• Environmental initiatives and awareness
o Initiatives implemented
o Attempts to create awareness or educate/support staff to set personal computers (PCs) on
standby or sleep mode, set PC monitors to switch-off after a while, utilise energy-saving
features of office equipment and set printers/photocopiers to double-sided features
o Extent of access to wireless Internet connections at Unisa
o Awareness campaigns/training initiatives to improve awareness of proper use of printers/
photocopiers to reduce generation of wastepaper
o Attempts to educate staff to use printers/photocopiers correctly to reduce waste generation,
use ‘print-preview’ features encouraging staff to make revisions on screen, view documents
or record minutes electronically and use screensaver features
o Attempts to encourage staff to maintain files electronically
• Monitoring mechanism
o Mechanism to monitor whether office equipment is switched off and/or the volume of energy
consumed by office equipment
• General
o Suggestions to improve ‘green’ office behaviour

15
Department
• University Estates Department including:
o Infrastructure Management Directorate
o Maintenance Directorate
Research focus
• Environmental policy
o Existence of environmental policies on sustainable environmental office practices
o Existence of ‘green’ mission for department
o Setting of environmental targets/action plans to support sustainable environmental office practices
o Existence of guidelines/policies to support the donation/discounting of used office furniture and
supplies to employees/local charities
• Green infrastructure/facilities
o Office environment
• Offices occupied and office locations
• Future office space
• Maximising natural light in designing or recommending office layout
• Regularity of air quality tests
• Office ventilation
• Live plants in offices
o Maintenance and installation
• Maintenance of light fixtures and high energy/water consumption facilities
• Replacement of incandescent lights with low energy globes
• Control air-conditioning system temperature
• Watering of office plants
• Water-wise gardening
• Purchase practices for bathroom equipment (timed taps)
• Preferences for installation of hand-blow driers
• Extent of SA indigenous plants used in Unisa gardens
• Invader plants at Unisa
o Environmental facilities
• Waste disposal service provider
• Environmental facilities at Unisa (ie e-waste/paper waste/glass and plastic bottle recycling
facilities)
• Waste generated at Unisa
• Re-usage of e-waste
• Video-conferencing facilities

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Department
• University Estates Department including:
o Infrastructure Management Department
o Maintenance Department
• Corporate Communication and Marketing (CCM)
Directorate
Research focus
o Environmental monitoring/control
• Monitoring of energy/water consumption
• Energy/water saving practices
• Mechanism to monitor energy consumption
• Timed water systems
• Environmental prospects
o Green office projects
• Environmental awareness
o Staff awareness campaigns/programmes regarding ‘green’ projects
o Initiatives to use own mugs in vending machines
o Vending-cup recycling scheme
o Information sharing on electricity and water consumption
• General
o Tracking of carbon footprint
o Ideas/suggestions to improve environmental management and make Unisa more sustainable and
environmentally friendly
• Environmental policy
o Existence of ‘green’ communication policy and ‘green’ mission for department
o Setting of environmental targets/action plans on ‘green’ communication
o Existence of guidelines/policies to encourage use of e-mail communication
• Environmental awareness
o Volume of information available to communicate and create awareness of sustainable
environmental practices and policies
o Format of communication to encourage awareness of and support for ‘green’ issues
o Poster signs used to create awareness of environmental aspects
o Regularity of communicating ‘green’ issues to improve awareness
o Electricity/water consumption volumes communicated to Unisa staff to motivate responsible
actions
o Re-use practices (files/folders and envelopes)
o ‘Green’ corporate gifts
o E-cards

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Department
Research focus
• Corporate Communication and Marketing (CCM)
Department
• Effective environmental communication
o Preferred methods to effectively communicate environmental messages at Unisa (newsletters,
Website, e-mails, brochures, word-of-mouth (workshops/meetings, managers/supervisors),
videos, training, bulletin boards)
• General
o Ideas to improve sustainable ‘green’ environment
• Conference, Cleaning and Catering Services Division • Environmental policy
o Existence of environmental policies
o Existence of ‘green’ mission for department
o Environmental targets/action plans to support sustainable practices
o Existence of guidelines/policies for catering service providers
• Environmental awareness
o Information/guidelines available to internal staff and external service providers to create
awareness of sustainable environmental practices at Unisa
• General
o Ideas on improving sustainable ‘green’ office environment
• Study material, Print Policies Production and Delivery • Environmental policy
o Waste elimination practices
o Digital operations processing options
o Digital vs litho printing
o Bulk ordering of processing plates
o Power consumption
o Purchase/printing of recycled paper
o Waste minimisation
o Switch-off of production press
o Online delivery of study material
o Electronic access to scholarly journals
o Existence of ‘green’ mission
o Environmental targets and action plans related to ‘green’ printing, production and delivery of
study material

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Department
Research focus
• Study material, Print Policies Production and Delivery • Waste minimisation, awareness and education
o Quantifying monthly paper usage by Unisa
o Preference practices to purchase recycled paper
o Attempts to encourage or raise awareness to minimise paper waste or recycle paper
o Attempts to encourage re-use of files/folders/official envelopes
• General
o Ideas/suggestions to make Unisa more sustainable and environmentally friendly

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1.4 DATA CAPTURING, DATA CLEANING AND STORING
The nature of online Web and bulletin board interviews resulted in responses being
captured in electronic format. For the sustainable environmental office practice
research among Unisa staff, all responses were transferred to an e-database that
was verified and cleaned for correctness and comprehension prior to analysis and
interpretation. All data collected was captured using the SPSS computer software
package. The outcome of the research results of the sustainable environmental
office practice survey is discussed in more detail in chapter 2.
The research results of the sustainable environmental education practice survey
among the Unisa academic community as well as the sustainable environmental
business practice survey among selected internal service departments were collated
and transcribed electronically. However, some uncertainties and incomprehension
required some personal face-to-face follow-up interviews to ensure that all research
topic matters were addressed in totality. The outcomes of the bulletin board and
face-to-face interviews are captured in chapter 4.
1.5 REPORT LAYOUT
This chapter outlined the aims and research methodology of the Unisa sustainable
environmental study. In an attempt to guide Unisa in terms of sustainable ‘green’
business practices followed by other universities and the corporate business world,
chapter 2 elaborates in more detail on some best practices of ‘green’ businesses.
Chapter 3 presents a discussion on the outcome of the 2009 sustainable
environmental office practice at Unisa. This is followed by a discussion of the
research results emanating from bulletin board interviews for the sustainable
environmental education practice survey among the Unisa academic community and
the sustainable environmental business practice survey among selected internal
service departments (chapter 4). Chapter 5 presents a summary of the entire
research study as well as some recommendations based on the findings.

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CHAPTER 2
SUSTAINABLE ‘GREEN’ BUSINESS PRACTICES OF TERTIARY EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS
AND BUSINESS CORPORATES
2.1 INTRODUCTION
This chapter presents an overview of the sustainable ‘green’ business practices used by
other universities and the corporate world in an attempt to guide Unisa in terms of its
own progress and future planning related to sustainable environmental practices and
policies.
2.2 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
The information contained in this chapter is the direct result of secondary research after
consulting and verifying various external sources. The outcome of the sustainable
environmental practices of other universities and local and international corporate
businesses are captured and summarised in the sections below. In principle, the actual
goals of sustainable environmental practices at a university and in a business enterprise
do not actually differ. However, it should be noted that no two organisations are
exactly alike and the development of sustainable ‘green’ programmes will inevitably
reflect organisational issues/priorities relevant to the organisation being investigated.
2.3 SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTAL PRACTICES OF ‘OTHER’ UNIVERSITIES
This discussion focuses primarily on universities who are actively involved in developing
and maintaining sustainable environmental practices. Leaders in this regard include 10
of the world’s leading research universities. These universities are strategically aligned
by the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU) that has managed to draw
together the following allies:
• Australian National University (ANU)

21
• ETH (Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule ) Zurich
• National University of Singapore (NUS)
• University of Peking
• University of California (UC) - Berkeley
• University of Cambridge
• University of Copenhagen
• University of Oxford
• The University of Tokyo
• Yale University
The IARU is committed to reducing the environmental impact of its campus activities,
through the implementation of wide-ranging sustainable ‘green’ strategies. The campus
sustainability programmes established by members not only focus on regional priorities
but also on global issues, such as climate change.
The IARU Web page
(http://www.iaruni.org/sustainability/strategies) provides access to information about the
respective sustainability programmes established by IARU members, as well as a toolkit
that provides a template for developing a campus sustainability programme and
greenhouse emissions reduction strategy.
IARU Campus Sustainability principles
include:
• Promote best practices in institutional environmental performance and develop
synergies between education, research and the commitment to sustainability.
The emphasis is on key areas of resource consumption, greenhouse gas
emissions and biodiversity conservation.
• Develop environmental literacy among staff and students.
• Develop programmes to integrate academic and operational activities to
enhance campus environmental performance as well as promoting practical
research and teaching opportunities that improve the learning experience and
foster environmental literacy.

22
• Exchange relevant information and expertise among IARU members.
• Establish appropriate indices for sustainability performance.
Against this background the sustainable environmental practices and various projects of
‘other’ universities are explored in more detail in the discussion to follow. This
information gathered through the exploratory research phase aims to assist Unisa in its
journey towards campus sustainability. The outcome of the exploratory research is
captured and summarised in exhibit 2.1.

23
EXHIBIT 2.1
SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICE PRACTICES OF INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITIES
Australian National University (ANU)
Green Loan Fund
To improve environmental performance the ANU has established a Green Loan Fund that provides funding for projects that demonstrably reduce the environmental
impact of the ANU in critical areas like water consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and waste management. The fund provides interest-free loans for projects that have
a 10-year or less return on investment.
ANUgreen Office Internships
The ANUgreen Sustainability Internship programme is designed to give students experience working on campus sustainability projects within the ANU Sustainability Office
(ANUgreen). Students work on projects ranging from energy and water conservation initiatives, behaviour change campaigns/marketing, project management and green
building studies.
Sustainability Exchange Programme
In 2007, ANU and Yale University began a campus sustainability exchange programme with ANU sending three interns to Yale, and Yale sending two interns to ANU for six
weeks each. In 2008, the programme expanded to include Oxford University. In 2009 students will also have the opportunity to visit ETH Zurich, National University of
Singapore, Peking University, University of Cambridge, University of Copenhagen, University of Oxford, University of Tokyo and Yale University. Students at each location
live in campus accommodation and work closely with professionals at each of the universities to support the development and implementation of campus sustainability
projects. Selected students live in on-campus housing and work in the university’s sustainability office for the duration of the programme. Project topics range from
energy conservation, transport and waste reduction to student outreach and community engagement.
GreenSteps Environmental Management Training
The GreenSteps Environmental Management Training program is a nationally recognised environmental management training program that gives students the skills to act
as environmental change agents in the workplace. This innovative green office training course covers environmental auditing, project planning, strategic communication
and change management. GreenSteps is a partnership between ANUgreen, the Monash Sustainability Institute and the Australian Greenhouse Office. Training includes
thirty contact hours. Topics covered include waste auditing; energy auditing and interview surveys; communicating for change; organisational environmentalism;
negotiation skills; problem mapping and project planning; guest speakers; and managing organisational change. As part of this programme students undertake an internal
placement at the ANU working on a green office project, and they also work with an external agency for 12 days gaining valuable work experience. At the end of the
training students must submit a final report to each of the programme partners.
ANUgreen Staff – Green Programme
The ANUgreen staff office offers advice, support and practical solutions for recycling, greener office environments, stormwater pollution prevention, energy conservation,
water conservation, biodiversity management and appropriate transport. The ANUgreen staff office ensures that the ANUgreen programme is effectively managed and
administrated. The unit monitors water usage on campus (with the intent of identifying areas where consumption can be reduced via education or technical solutions),
implements a waste and recycling strategy and manages the organic waste recycling, sustainable transport (ie carpooling website) and green office programmes as well as
campus-wide cleaning contracts. The unit also helps the ANU community to learn how to reduce its environmental impact. It coordinates biodiversity projects for the
university to promote community awareness of biodiversity and urban ecology. It also does environmental risk assessments on campus and is involved in stormwater
pollution prevention initiatives. Finally the unit coordinates the ANUgreen sustainability internships programme and sustainability student exchanges.

24
Australian National University (ANU) (continued)
HotRot Organic Recycling Project
ANU established a HotRot Organic Recycling project to reduce the environmental and economic costs of sending organic waste to landfill. Specific and clearly identified
120 litre and 240 litre wheelie bins are provided to Halls of Residence, restaurants and cafés, along with other university departments. Food waste and other organic
material are placed in these bins by the providers (kitchen staff, chefs, and staff from ANU research departments) and are then collected by ANUgreen for composting.
When picking up bins containing food waste, clean bins are replaced ready for the next day’s food waste. Although separation of the organic waste from in-organic waste
is the responsibility of the waste provider, ANUgreen works closely with providers to employ systems to collect food waste while reducing the level of contamination from
inorganic waste and noncompostible materials. Food waste is mixed with carbon waste products and composted, producing thermophilic conditions ≥55 0 C using in-vessel
composting technology. This ensures pasteurisation of the compost. This product is then static cured at cooler temperatures. Opportunities then exist to mix this
compost with compost produced from green waste, producing a finished product which can be used as fertilizer, soil conditioner or in garden landscapes.
Sustainable environmental building design
At ANU, the Ian Ross Building (named after Professor Ian G Ross - former Dean of Science and Deputy Vice- Chancellor), uses passive environmental systems as a means of
providing occupant thermal comfort and energy efficiency. It responds to concerns for low maintenance, low life cycle cost and ecologically sensitive design with emphasis
on passive ventilation. In summary, systems have been developed and incorporated to provide, among others, the following: solar shading (that controls space radiant
temperatures during summer while allowing sun penetration during winter for passive heating); natural ventilation systems (that remove internal heat loads, provide air
movement and provide oxygen to occupants); ceiling mounted fans (that provide air movement when windows are closed on hot days and distribute heat to lower
occupied levels on cold days); internal blinds (that provide glare control); insulation, double glazing and large areas of internal building mass (that help provide passive
cooling through control of radiant heat loads); hydronic slab heating (that utilises the mass of the building providing radiant heating and efficient cost effective operation);
solar hot water panels (that reduce energy demands on water heating); high efficiency light fittings (that reduce energy demands and room heat loads); air conditioning
(that provides a back-up to high heat load areas which cannot always maintain thermal comfort by passive means alone). The Ian Ross building has been designed with the
following environmental design features:
Heating systems. A hydronic heating system that is suitable for future integration with solar hot water collection has been installed to heat the building during winter.
Building fabric. The building fabric provides high levels of both insulation and thermal mass to passively assist the control of radiant heat loads from both the occupants
and machinery such as computers. External walls are either double brick or reverse brick veneer insulated. The majority of the external walls are double brick and the roof
has two layers of insulation.
Daylighting and solar protection. A C-Shaped building footprint orientated towards the nothern sun reduces the depth of the building and allows a large amount of
natural light into the internal spaces. Roof overhangs, sun shades and varying window shapes, depending on orientation help to keep to solar heat out during summer and
maximise solar penetration for heat gain during winter. Daylight to shaded areas is maintained through the use of translucent polycarbonate shades. Large deciduous
existing trees have been utilised as an extra layer of sun control in summer, negating the need for shading the south east facade. Internal reflective blinds provide localised
glare control within each space.
Artificial lighting. Low energy light fittings featuring electronic ballasts, silver lux reflectors and T5 luminaires provide energy savings and reduce heat load in rooms.
Zoning of the lights provides additional energy savings as areas can be switched off when suitable daylighting exists.
Natural ventilation. Two natural ventilation networks exist: a fully automated system and a manually operated system. An automated system is provided to all the 'public
zones' within the building. These zones include the class rooms, design studios, staff rooms, seminar rooms, circulation and gathering spaces. The ventilation is controlled
like an airconditioning system and uses a temperature controlled BMS. All the windows and dampers are controlled by the BMS, which takes into account internal
temperature, ambient temperature, wind velocity, wind direction and rain. A night purge function has been incorporated into the system and will operate during the high
temperature summer periods to purge the stored heat from the building overnight. All motorised windows have a manual override to open and close windows as desired.
Ceiling fans are used to provide air movement during hot periods when windows are closed.

25
Australian National University (ANU) (continued)
Sustainable environmental building design (continued)
The new John Curtin School of Medical Research building at ANU will provide facilities for the John Curtin School of Medical Research, including specialised laboratories,
offices, a lecture theatre, workshops, a public café and public foyer and display area. The foyer will house exhibits about medical research, complementing Canberra's
science education centre’s CSIRO Discovery and Questacon. Environmental design features of the building include:
• An adaptive airconditioning system for the administration areas that uses the building's mass to pre-cool incoming air
• Thermal chimneys to help cool the building overnight in summer, by venting hot air to the outside
• A thermal labyrinth, located under the entrance stairs, to help cool incoming air for the lecture theatre
ETH (Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule) Zurich
Energy management
Energy efficiency programmes have been implemented by optimising chillers used in central cooling plants and by renovating the lighting of buildings. The newest
generation of halogen-metal lighting fixtures are installed in buidlings. These lamps conver up to 38 % of energy used into visible light and have a lifetime of 30 000 hours
of electronic ballasts.
CO 2 emissions
ETH Zurich is a technical university with its chemical buildings causing a CO 2 imprint by its heating and cooling systems. ETH Zurich has implemented monitoring systems to
measure its direct footprint. It has also started to investigate the indirect CO 2 emission of the production, transport, packaging, processing and preparation of food in its
cafeterias. Closely rated to this, the university is offering a wider selection of meatless menus.
New buildings/renovations (sustainable building design)
The Information Science Laboratory in the first university building is constructed with consistent emphasis on energy efficiency. Mechanical ventilation and mechanically
generated cooling and heating energy systems are installed to support the natural supply of energy.
Waste management
The university optimises waste heat utilisation, and maintains a recycling system for paper and cardboard as well as for chemical substances, solvents and other materials
(ie CDs, DVDs, electronic waste).
Resource conservation
ETH Zurich optimises water usage by, for example, using rainwater for toilet flushing.
Paper consumption
ETH Zurich has introduced white recycling paper and purchases only FSC label paper. Scripts and documents are less often printed out and more often read and processed
on-screen. The university also focuses on measures that lead to a reduction in business travel.
Sustainability in education and research
ETH Zurich is currently conducting an audit on lectures in which sustainability topics are taught. It has also established a Competence Centre for Environment and
Sustainability (CCES), which makes an important contribution with its inter-disciplinary research projects dedicated to the topic of sustainability.

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ETH (Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule) Zurich (continued)
Transportation
At ETH Zurich some staff commute from building to building on electric scooters which are noiseless and absolutely free of emissions.
Ecoworks
Student projects such as ‘Ecoworks’ have been implemented by ETH Zurich. The focus is on practical implementable projects which affect energy efficiency and CO 2
emissions at the university and within the community. Ecoworks also raises awareness and focuses on smaller research and development projects. Typical Ecoworks
projects include improved printing systems (economising print resources), eat less CO 2 (CO 2 -optimised menus at cafeterias), trainforplane (incentive system to alter travel
behaviour), energy paparazzi (exposing crime against environment), ecoAct (developing student awareness of their own actions, Inno-Rain-Project (drinking water
conservation), Windows lab overnight shutdown (consistently shutting down computers not in use) and the SunWindProject (solar and wind energy systems on roofs).
National University of Singapore (NUS)
NUS has started an Office of Environmental Sustainability (OES) that promotes the following sustainable environmental mission and vision:
Mission: To effect a total shift to environmental sustainability in all aspects of campus life by integrating sustainability into our operations, planning, construction,
education, research, instruction and public service.
Vision: OES aims to promote, coordinate, and implement the most effective sustainability practices possible. By harnessing NUS’s immense physical and intellectual
resources, we are working to develop positive solutions for today's ecological challenges.
OES responsibilities are defined as follows:
• Establish NUS sustainability goals and develop a sustainability roadmap
• Identify and facilitate adoption of applicable best practices in campus development and operations
• Establish direct communication channel with campus stakeholders and educate them on the importance of resource conservation and environment protection
• Guide and monitor the sustainability performance of various faculties and administrative departments to achieve NUS sustainability targets
• Collaborate with other leading universities with matters related to campus sustainability
• Report to senior management and other stakeholders on NUS sustainability performance
• Review targets to ensure alignment with national and partner universities’ sustainability strategies and goals
Sustainable environmental campus initiatives at NUS include, among others, the following:
Energy
For almost all campuses, energy consumption takes up the main bulk of the green house gas inventory. Therefore, the key to creating a more sustainable campus is to
reduce its energy consumption. This is a daunting challenge given the ever-increasing energy demand to serve a growing research institute like NUS, coupled with the
heavy reliance on air conditioning to cool the buildings in the hot and humid climatic conditions of Singapore.
Waste management
NUS is actively involved in recycling paper, plastics, cans, organic food waste, printer toners and cartridges and handphones.

27
National University of Singapore (NUS) (continued)
Environmental education
Environmental Education is one of the key strategic thrusts of OES. Specific roles of OES in this regard include:
Support, facilitate and develop connections between faculties, graduate and undergraduate research related to sustainability.
Broaden interdisciplinary or multidisciplinary participation among faculties, students in environmental, social and economic research, problem solving, artistic expression
and communications relating to sustainability
Education and awareness initiatives:
IARU Student Fellowship. The objective of the IARU Student Sustainability Fellowship is to provide opportunities to undergraduates who are environmentally conscious,
to undergo a rigorous learning experience that combines emphasis on leadership and knowledge accumulation in the area of sustainability. This programme facilitates the
sharing of each university’s best environmental management, programmes and practices, which could be adopted and implemented in their home campus.
Climate Change Cafés. These forums are hosted to increase awareness and facilitate discussion forums on sustainable environmental topics.
Green Carnival. Students Against Violation of the Earth (SAVE) is the main environmental student organisation in NUS. Strongly supported by the NUS administration, NUS
Students’ Union (NUSSU) and the academia, SAVE are at the forefront of promoting environmental awareness, activism, stewardship and initiating impactful environmental
programmes on the university campus and beyond to combat global climate change. Since 2006, Green Carnival has been SAVE’s annual flagship project. It is a platform to
raise environmental awareness and mobilise the NUS community to translate that awareness into action for the environment. Green Carnival is strongly and widely
supported by the NUS administration, Students’ Union and governmental bodies such as the National Environment Agency (NEA) and South West CDC.
Eco-Trips & Eco-Camps.
International Coastal Cleanup.
Sustainability modules:
Arts & Social Science
Geography (Environmental Sustainability, Place, Environment and Society, The Biophysical Environment of Singapore, Terrestrial and Coastal Environments, Atmospheric
Environments, Water and the Environment, Research Methods in Environmental Sciences)
Philosophy (Environmental Philosophy)
Economics (Environmental Economics)
Engineering
Division of Environmental Science & Engineering (Global Environmental Issues, Environmental Process, Environmental Microbiological Principles, Environmental
Engineering, Environmental Biological Principles, Environmental Management Systems, Environmental Technology, Environmental Fate of Organic Contaminant)
Civil Engineering (Infrastructure & the Environment)
Mechanical Engineering (Thermal Environmental Engineering)
Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering (Fundamentals in Environmental Protection, Mathematical Methods in Chemical & Environmental Engineering)

28
National University of Singapore (NUS) (continued)
Sustainability modules:
Law
Comparative Environmental Law, International Environmental Law & Policy, ASEAN Environmental Law, Policy and Governance, Environmental Law
Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy
Environmental and Natural Resource Policy, Environmental Economics & Public Policy
Science
Ecology and Environmental Processes, Environmental Chemistry and Topics in Environmental Chemistry
School of Design and Environment
• Building (Managing Singapore’s Built Environment, Environmental Science for Building, BDG Environmental Assessment Methods)
• Architecture (Ecodesign and Sustainability, Design and the Environment, Designing with Environmental Systems, Integrated Design & Sustainability)
• Real Estates (Environmental Issues in Real Estate)
Dean's Office
Business and the Environment, Environmental Science, Environmental Management and Assessment, Environmental Planning
University Scholars Programme
Ethics and the Environment
Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine
Microbes, Environment and Man, Environment in Health & Disease

29
University of California - Berkeley
The Berkeley campus has a diverse set of buildings including offices, classrooms, libraries, residences, and laboratories. Laboratories in particular have high energy and
water loads relative to office buildings, and may produce significant toxic and nontoxic waste. In spite of the challenges associated with campus growth, UC Berkeley is
committed to constructing buildings that are certified LEED (The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (Green Building Rating System) or equivalent, and the
campus Strategic Energy Plan will continue to make existing buildings more efficient. The campus has completed its first LEED Silver (New Construction) certified building
(the Haste Street Child Development Center) and has plans to certify 10 more new building projects and four existing buildings (under the LEED-EBOM program).
UC Berkeley intends to be a leader on environmental issues and to promote action and awareness through educational and research activities. This commitment includes:
• protecting and enhancing the campus environment
• purchasing environmentally preferable products, minimising the use of toxic substances and handling waste responsibly
• conserving natural resources through their sustainable use in building projects, transportation and campus operations
• significantly reducing campus greenhouse gas emissions
• conducting innovative research on sustainable technology and practices
• increasing awareness of these values through instruction and example
• collaborating with a diverse and engaged campus community on these issues to help fulfil the university’s mission
Campus sustainability achievements
Energy & climate
The university has made great progress on climate action by completing an inventory of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and formalising its commitment to reduce these
emissions to 1990 levels by 2014. The campus will meet its 2014 target through a series of mitigation strategies including energy efficiency projects, installation of on-site
renewables, reducing fuel usage by the campus fleet and commuters, and educational projects led by students aimed at changing behaviour.
Water
Even without a campus-wide water conservation target, campus consumption has dropped 6% since 1990, even as the population has grown significantly. Most of this
improvement can be attributed to the increased efficiency of irrigation.
Green buildings
The first UC Berkeley the US Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver certified project was recently completed. The campus
has plans to certify 10 buildings under the New Construction (NC) or Commercial Interiors (CI) category and four under the Existing Building Operations and Maintenance
(EBOM) category. The campus employs a variety of sustainable maintenance practices including green cleaning methods and nontoxic methods to control pests.
Waste
UC Berkeley’s current solid waste diversion rate is 57% (including construction waste). The campus has also significantly improved its diversion of organic waste, increasing
the tonnage composted by over 100 % since 2000, when the programme began.

30
University of California - Berkeley
Transportation
The campus has instituted numerous programmes to reduce the number of commutes made in single occupant vehicles. The percentage of staff that commute by public
transit has more than doubled since 1990, while 93 % of students commute to campus by foot, bike, ridesharing or transit. Since 2005, the number of alternate fuel
vehicles in the campus fleet has tripled. Since 1990 fuel use associated with the fleet and commute have been reduced by 21 %.
Food and dining
Cal Dining has increased the amount of local and organic food that is purchased and offers 100 % organic salad bars in all four dining commons. Cal Dining has also
partnered with ‘Buy Fresh Buy Local’ and committed to buying at least 10 % local produce with a goal of 25 %.
Land Use
The campus has implemented projects to improve stormwater quality and reduce runoff. Projects have diverted parking lot runoff through a series of vegetated
treatment systems to reduce the pollutants and sections of the riparian corridor have been restored by removing invasive species and planting natives.
Learning and engaging with sustainability
UC Berkeley offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees with an environmental focus or the opportunity for environmental specialisation, including the
Engineering and Business for Sustainability Certificate. Students organise clubs or projects around sustainability themes - there are at least 25 student-run organisations,
and a variety of service learning opportunities.
The campus also supports a large number of faculty and research centres related to the environment and sustainability, while staff continue to expand their engagement
by incorporating sustainability practices into the everyday operations of the campus.
Advancing complex environmental issues
The Berkeley Institute of the Environment (BIE) is a campus-wide initiative created to leverage UC Berkeley’s collective resources for multidisciplinary research, teaching,
and action to help address the planet’s most critical environmental problems. The Institute’s goals are to address complex environmental problems through:
• Faculty Roundtables and Working Groups: Fostering collaboration and new ways of thinking about critical environmental problems across disciplines.
• Research Programmes: Applying the most promising real world environmental solutions through demonstration projects, locally and around the world.
• Student Programmes: Training a new generation of environmental researchers, citizens and professionals.
The BIE’s environmental portal hosts information on 400 environmental courses, some 300 faculty, 86 academic degree programmes, dozens of research centres, and over
30 student groups.
Community
Cal Dining is dedicated to providing an environmentally friendly dining programme that supports the Cal community. They have been recognised as leaders for their
initiatives, including:
• First four green certified buildings on Cal’s campus, including all residential dining locations
• First university organic certification & 100 % organic salad bars in all residential dining locations
• Donate food to a nonprofit family shelter
• Collect over 100 tons of food waste for composting; postconsumer waste; and residential composting pilot for to-go containers & food waste

31
University of California – Berkeley (continued)
• Recycle within our food service operation
• Purchase environmentally friendly items, such as cleaning products, biodegradable take-out containers, cups and plastic utensils
• Offer discounts for reusable beverage containers and bags
• Offer natural, organic and environmentally packaged products in retail and Cal Club online groceries
• Partner with campus environmental leaders, Cal Recycling & Refuse and Unit Residential Sustainability Education Coordinators
• Provide 100 % made-in-the-USA uniforms and pay a living wage
University of Cambridge
Environmental policy
The university has adopted an environmental policy that states In achieving excellence in teaching and research, the University of Cambridge aims to manage its activities,
buildings and estates to promote environmental sustainability, to conserve and enhance natural resources and to prevent environmental pollution to bring about a
continual improvement in its environmental performance.
Sustainable design in buildings - Centre for Mathematical Sciences
This complex brings together the Pure and Applied Mathematics departments into seven 40-office pavilions grouped around a grass-roofed central core building containing
lecture theatres and a dining hall, and an external contemporary Cambridge courtyard. A circular library and a gatehouse complete the masterplan. The low energy
buildings have exposed thermal mass, natural ventilation, night cooling, solar shading and a building management system to regulate the internal environment.
Sustainable development management, coordination and communication
• The Committee for Environmental Management
Environmental issues associated with the running of the university are overseen by the Committee for Environmental Management, which comprises representatives
of academic departments, student bodies and the administration.
• Policy on Environmental Issues
The university's Policy on Environmental Issues sets out the university's aims to minimise its environmental impact. One of the key elements of management of
environmental issues within the university is the development of an Environmental Plan.
• Environmental coordinators
The coordination of environmental issues within departments is carried out by a network of environmental coordinators.
• Green Lines
The Environmental Office publishes Green Lines, which is a termly environmental bulletin to keep departments informed on a range of environmental issues relevant
to university activities. Further background information on environmental and sustainability issues is provided in the Sustainability and the University leaflet.
• Higher Education Partnership for Sustainability
Cambridge is one of 18 higher education institutions involved in the Higher Education Partnership for Sustainability (HEPS) programme aimed at promoting
sustainable development within the higher education sector.
• Cambridge Environmental Initiative
Information on environmental aspects of research and curriculum development is maintained on the Website of the Cambridge Environmental Initiative.
• Cambridge adopted a Climate Change Charter in 2007.

32
University of Cambridge
Sustainable environmental buildings
The university adopted a formal sustainable buildings policy in 2007. The policy requires that a BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment
Method) assessment should be carried out on all new buildings of over 1000m2 with a target to achieve a rating of ‘excellent’ with a minimum rating of ‘very good’. Three
university buildings have had BREEAM assessments and achieved ‘very good’ ratings. The guidance recommends the adoption of whole-life-costing considerations and
promotes integrated passive design elements to obtain more efficient buildings that consume fewer resources during their design and operation. These include the use of
natural ventilation to reduce the need for air conditioning plant, high levels of insulation and air tightness to minimise heat loss and heat gain, careful glazing strategies to
maximise the use of natural daylight whilst minimising unacceptable levels of solar gain in the summer months and incorporating high levels of thermal mass to even out
temperature fluctuations throughout the day and facilitate the use of cooler night-time cooling strategies to minimise the need for the chiller plant.
Energy management
The university has developed an implementation plan to cut CO 2 emissions by 10 % over a five-year period. This plan sets out a range of emissions reduction opportunities,
including:
• Reducing heating and process loads in buildings by upgrading insulation and control systems.
• Improving lighting efficiency by upgrading old fluorescent tubes by more efficient high frequency types and installing improved systems.
• Enhancing utility monitoring arrangements through the development of Automatic Monitoring and Targeting (aM&T) and improving submetering arrangements in
buildings.
• Conserving water by building on an existing highly successful water conservation programme to further reduce leakage and other wastage.
• Reviewing energy supply options, including the feasibility of on-site CHP (Combined Heat and Power) and renewable energy sources.
Water conservation
The university has a water conservation programme that has been running since 1988.
Waste and recycling
The university has improved recycling efforts through the introduction of an integrated waste management strategy. Recycling facilities have been established for a wide
range of materials including office paper, cardboard, fluorescent tubes (for recovery of mercury, glass and aluminum end caps), green waste (for composting), glass,
aluminum drink cans and toner cartridges (donated to local charities) and PCs and ancillary items of IT equipment. Recycling schemes are also available for office paper,
catalogues, cardboards, plastic bottles, batteries, redundant IT equipment, glass, aluminum cans and fluorescent tubes.
Traffic and transport
There is a strong cycling culture within the university which is promoted by a range of initiatives such as the innovative Park & Cycle facility. There is also an interest free
loan scheme to assist with the purchase of cycles or season tickets for public transport.
Ecology
An Ecology Strategy has been developed which identifies opportunities to enhance the working and living environment of the site through the facilitation and management
of the ecology of the area to create desirable habitats and communities of wild plants and animals and to signify the biodiversity of the site.
Global campus sustainability standard
In collaboration with IARU representatives/universities, Cambridge is developing a Global Campus Sustainability Standard to initiate the development of concrete measures
towards sustainable campus planning and greenhouse gas emission reductions that will simultaneously draw attention to the issues of global warming and offer a
conspicuous example to the next generation of world leaders (students).

33
University of Copenhagen
Climate Research
• Earth System Science
• Atmospheric Science
• Global Warming and the Cryosphere
• Natural Resources Management
• Agriculture, Environment and Food Security
• The Food System
• Bioenergy
• Water Resources, Stability and Human Health
• Biodiversity and Ecology
• Human Health
• Environmental Governance
• Security, Risk Analysis, Migration
Environmental education, training and discourse
Green congress
The University of Copenhagen hosted an International Scientific Congress Climate Change: Global Risks, Challenges & Decisions in March 2009.
Climate courses
In November 2008, the Faculty of Life Sciences announced the world’s first e-learning course on Climate Change. Also, the Sustainability Science Centre is supporting the
development of a cross-faculty master education course on climate change. Other courses offered by the university include:
• The Economics of Climate Change
• Climate and Law
• Land Use, Element Balances and Environmental Impact
• Master of Disaster Management
• Sustainable Tropical Forestry
• Climate, Weather and Plants
• Climate Change – Effects on Food and Feed
• Water resources
• Nature Management in Greenland
Climate summer schools
The university also offers climate summer schools in cooperation with its IARU partners and its partners in the UNI-Climate cooperation forum (see below)

34
University of Copenhagen (continued)
UNI-Climate Cooperation Forum
Denmark’s three largest universities ie University of Copenhagen, University of Aarhus and the Technical University of Denmark have established a climate cooperation
forum. One of the initiatives that this forum is coordinating is summer schools, which include courses from all three universities. The summer schools began in the summer
of 2009. They give Danish and international students an opportunity to study some of the many different aspects within the climate change field, and to be taught by some
of the world’s leading climate scientists.
Climate lectures
With the Copenhagen Climate Lecture series students and the public are given direct access to some of the most influential politicians, researchers, business
representatives, and NGOs in the climate debate.
Green network
Green Network is a student organisation at the University of Copenhagen. The students engage actively in making the university greener and more sustainable to meet
future challenges. Green Network speaks on behalf of the university’s green student organisations.
Energy saving
The university has established its energy consumption (green account) in cooperation with its IARU partners. In this regard, the university’s board has laid down a policy
and a strategy on how to reduce energy consumption and CO 2 emissions. An essential part of the strategy is to reduce energy consumption and CO 2 emissions by 20 % by
2013. Other energy savings initiatives include:
• Identification and realisation of energy reducing projects
• Green behaviour by students and staff, eg a campus-wide energy conservation campaign
• Sustainable campus – new buildings, renovation, and maintenance
• Green purchasing and green consumption
• Cooperation with internal and external partners
• Global cooperation
Green management
A steering committee is appointed to manage all ‘Green campus’ initiatives
Green Relay - Community Initiative
The Green Relay Initiative which started in 2007 involves a price competition on ‘the sustainable campus’ for students at Copenhagen University. Copenhagen University’s
strategy Destination 2012 aims to develop the university to become one of Europe’s greenest campus areas. Green Relay is a means to realise this objective. The focus has
not been to save the world but to contribute to sustainability in the university’s four campus areas.

35
University of Copenhagen (continued)
Sustainable environmental Building Design
Green Lighthouse
The green effort also includes a new building - Green Lighthouse. Energy-efficient buildings make a key contribution to combating climate change. Not only is the university
taking the lead when it comes to renovation and maintenance of existing buildings, but with this brand new house, the university is also taking the lead in how to build new
climate-friendly buildings. Green Lighthouse will show that it is possible to reduce energy consumption and not go back on design, indoor climate, optimal daylight and
architectural quality.
University of Oxford
Environmental management
The University's Environment Panel (a panel of the Building and Estates Subcommittee of Council) is responsible for monitoring the university's impact on the
environment and advises the relevant bodies within the university on issues such as waste minimisation, energy and water conservation, implementing sustainable travel
plans, sustainable buildings, and enhancing biodiversity. The Environment Panel is a panel of the Buildings and Estates Subcommittee (BESC) of the Planning and Resource
Allocation Committee of Council. The panel monitors and considers the university's impact upon the environment and advises BESC and other relevant bodies within the
University, whether these be university committees, departments or colleges, on the steps which can be taken to minimise any adverse effects and improve performance
against its agreed Environment Policy. The panel's membership has representation from each academic division, the Safety Office, the Conference of Colleges and the
student body and liaises closely with the university's Sustainable Waste Officer, Energy Conservation Engineer and Travel Officer. Also, environmental officers are based in
the university Estates Directorate and report to the Environmental Panel. More specifically, the University Estates Directorate is responsible for:
• Condition of building fabric (insulation and draught proofing)
• Heating, hot water, central cooling and ventilation plant efficiency and operation
• Cost of fuel and water
Sustainable travel
The university has developed a sustainable travel plan for staff that covers a five-year period between 2008 and 2012 and has the following objectives:
• to improve the choice of transport options and facilities available to staff travelling to and from the university and between sites
• to discourage the unnecessary use of private motor vehicles by staff travelling to and from the university and between sites
• to implement travel initiatives that reduce transport related carbon dioxide emission
• to improve the health and fitness of staff through the promotion of walking and cycling

36
University of Oxford
Energy and water conservation
The university has implemented a policy of charging departments for their energy and water use. Therefore occupants have under their control costs associated with
water, lighting, office equipment (quantity and use), laboratory equipment and use, building occupancy hours (affects heating, ventilation, cooling), local cooling units and
gas and steam use in laboratory areas. Energy-saving strategies applied by the university include:
• Regularly negotiating the best prices for gas and electricity contracts.
• Monitoring the consumption of gas, electricity, oil and water in all university buildings.
• Replacing old gas-fired boilers with new high efficiency boilers as part of an ongoing plant room refurbishment programme.
• Replacing heating and ventilation stand-alone controls with new Trend BMS networked controls.
• Rewiring of electrical services as and when necessary. Replacing old lighting with new high efficiency luminaires.
• Designing new energy efficient buildings to the latest building regulations to meet a BREEAM ‘very good’ rating or equivalent with efficient heating, lighting and
controls. Air conditioning is to be avoided where possible with an emphasis on natural ventilation with night cooling.
• Refurbishing wash rooms fitted with water saving WCs, taps and urinal controls.
• Make available an Energy Conservation Levy Fund to finance energy-saving measures.
Future energy conservation tasks planned include
• Benchmark each building in terms of kWh/m² gross internal area (GIA) for gas and electricity and m³/m² (GIA) for water.
• Investigate high users indicated through benchmarking exercise, and those showing a significant change in energy use.
• Conduct regular energy surveys.
• Extend remote metering system for electricity, gas, and water meters.
• Control more buildings with the networked Trend BMS.
• Regularly update Energy Conservation Web pages.
• Develop and provide energy awareness education programmes for administrators, new staff, technicians etc.
• Identify and implement no cost and low cost energy-saving measures.
Waste management
Waste management at the university focuses on hazardous waste, legislation, packaging, purchasing, recycling, reduction, re-use and Swap Shops (exchange event where
students and staff can bring unwanted, good quality items to a central location, at a designated time, and exchange them for free).
Packaging waste
Strategies used by the university to reduce packaging waste include:
• Consolidating deliveries (eg stationery) (reduced deliveries result in less packaging).
• Negotiating with suppliers to take back packaging when delivering goods (eg computers, pallets).
• Pressurising suppliers to use less packaging.
• Reducing plastic bags by setting up a bag re-use policy for staff/students.
• Continuously enquire if purchase is really necessary. Items such as polystyrene cups, plastic drink stirrers, cardboard cups are heavily packaged.

37
University of Oxford
Recycling
The university recycles cardboard boxes and food packaging; paper (all types and colours); plastic packaging, containers, and food & sweets packaging; metal packaging (eg
coffee tins, drinks and food cans and aluminium foil/containers); brochures and magazines; envelopes (without the plastic windows). Waste reduction strategies used by
the university include:
• Re-use envelopes.
• Use blank side of printed paper for notes.
• Print and photocopy on both sides of paper.
• Re-use plastic bags (keep it in your bag or briefcase) for shopping, or use a cloth bag.
• Allocate one waste bin per 10 people in the office (cuts down on number of bin liners).
• Organise stationery distribution and storage - this cuts down on the need to order more, and prevents damage to products in storage.
• Conduct departmental occasional 'stationery armistices’.
• Use China cups instead of polystyrene or wax cardboard cups.
• Junk mail - stop unwanted mail and faxes.
• Pencils/pens - buy refillables.
• Hand towels, tissue and paper bags to be composted at home.
Swap shops
A swap shop is an exchange event where students and staff can bring unwanted, good quality items to a central location, at a designated time, and exchange them for
free. The university uses swap shops to help reduce waste to landfill and also to reduce energy, water and materials used in the extraction, manufacturing and
transportation of goods.
Sustainable building and construction
Sustainable building and construction development is managed by the University Estates Directorate.
University of Tokyo
TSCP Sustainable Campus Project
The University of Tokyo has made it one of its missions to contribute to the realisation of a sustainable society by creating a sustainable campus. This groundbreaking
project has been branded as the Todai Sustainable Campus Project (TSCP), which has set as immediate aim the prioritising of a low-carbon campus by reducing greenhouse
gas emissions. Specific sustainable environment policies and measures/action plans to reduce CO 2 emissions include the following:
• Installation of power meters (visualisation) to control the increase of emissions caused by the expansion of educational and research activities.
• Support for switching to energy-saving equipment.
o Equipment whose investment recovery period is a half of or shorter than their replacement span.
o Equipment whose ratio of annual CO 2 reduction to the initial investment amount is large.
o Support for initial investment is considered for equipment whose investment recovery period exceeds four years.
o Reduction of CO 2 emissions by approximately 6 % through enhancing energy-saving efficiency of large-scale heat source systems.
o Reduction of CO 2 emissions by approximately 7 % through upgrading lighting, room air conditioners, refrigerators and other equipment.
• Development of a model of introduction and dissemination of energy-saving equipment based on large-volume procurement.
• Implementation of other measures that can also save utilities costs after initial investment is recovered.

38
Yale University
Sustainability Leadership Programme
Yale’s Sustainability Leadership Programme has taken root across campus. The programme has expanded and volunteers are working with the Office of Sustainability to
create sustainable workplaces on both the medical and central campuses. Sustainability leaders volunteer a few hours each month to educate their co-workers about the
importance and ease of adopting sustainable office practices including green purchasing, energy conservation measures, and waste reduction and recycling efforts. Once a
month sustainability leaders meet to receive updates and information on Yale’s sustainability initiatives and to discuss the progress and challenges within their individual
offices. Sustainability leaders also form ‘Green Teams’ within their offices and departments with the goal of encouraging broader participation and facilitating the
transition to a more sustainable work environment.
Sustainable environmental policies and measures
In an effort to become a sustainable institution, Yale University is making institutional changes related to use of natural resources (ie food, energy, water, land, air),
systems and processes (ie energy use, transportation, procurement, building design and construction, waste management) and cultural sustainability.
Awareness raising and guidelines
Energy awareness is encouraged by the following:
• Host events during the day and in a location that will provide adequate natural lighting.
• Calculate the carbon footprint of events and purchase renewable energy certificates (RECs) to offset the event’s CO 2 emissions.
• Temper your temperature.
o On-campus
• If you have a thermostat, in the winter months turn it down when you leave for the day.
• Before raising the temperature, first layer with warmer clothes.
o Off-campus
• If you have a thermostat, in the winter months turn it down when you leave for the day and at night before you go to bed.
• If you lower your thermostat by 1º Fahrenheit over 24 hours, you could save about 3 % on your heating bill.
• Put your PC to sleep.
• Activate power management features on your personal computer. Power management features ‘place inactive monitors and computers (CPU, hard drive, etc) into a
low-power sleep mode’. This takes less than 10 seconds and can lead to annual electricity and cost savings.
• Programme your computer to save energy.

39
Yale University (continued)
Sustainable transportation
Responsible transport is encouraged by the following:
• Incentivising the use of alternative transportation.
• Highlighting bike routes to the event location and ensuring that an adequate number of parking spaces for bikes are available.
• Providing resources on public transportation in the area including routes and schedules as well as the location of bike racks.
• Offering virtual conferencing. Make your event a Webinar or video conference for attendees who are not local.
• Using public transportation.
• Using campus bus (Yale Shuttle). Yale Minibus operates day and night to transport students and staff around the university.
• Using local and express bus. CT Transit operates local and express bus lines to campus and the New Haven Green. You can even bring your bike on board.
• Using commuter rail.
Waste management
• Yale Recycling has a number of recycling receptacles in place (cans/bottles/mixed paper).
• Yale Catering provides recycling bins for food recycling.
• Yale encourages coordination with local food banks/soup kitchens to donate any left-over food.
• Yale provides biodegradable ‘To-Go’ containers for participants to take left-over food with them.
• For hired caterers that do site cooking and/or serving food, Yale encourages the use of appropriate food trash/recycling receptacles.
• Yale encourages the collection and re-use of plastic name tag holders.
Limit material use
Yale encourages the following:
• Reduce paper use by double siding when printing and photocopying.
• Edit papers or reports electronically instead of printing out multiple drafts.
• Re-use plates and tupperware.
• Bring your own mug or thermos to a coffee shop or cafeteria.
• Use resources wisely. Take only what you really need. For example, think about how many napkins you will use at a meal or how much food on your plate you can
actually eat before filling it up.
• Recycle empty cans, bottles, paper, and other used items. Yale and New Haven offer simple ways for you to recycle or donate just about everything - office paper,
magazines, junk mail, envelopes, newspaper, cardboard, cans and bottles, batteries, computers and other electronics, printer cartridges, styrofoam, office furniture,
and miscellaneous used items.

40
Yale University (continued)
Advertising/printed material
Yale encourages the following:
• Go Paperless: Post event information, downloadable versions of programmes, handouts and itineraries on a Web site for event participants.
• Ensure that programme guides, handouts, and other written materials are limited and, when needed, printed on 100 % post consumer paper and double sided using
a vegetable-based ink.
• For reoccurring or annual events, avoid printing dates and slogans on signs, posters, and banners so that they may be easily re-used.
• 100 % paperless advertising: Promote and invite electronically. Require participants to register or RSVP electronically as well.
Food
Current initiatives include:
• Working with Yale Catering to put together a sustainable menu.
• Preparing an own sustainable menu by using our sustainable menu checklist.
Green purchasing
Yale:
• Promotes environmentally preferable purchases in departments. The Green purchasing Web-site of Yale provides recommendations for ‘green; purchasing of
electronic office equipment (ie computers, monitors, printers, scanners and fax machines), copy paper, office supplies and toner cartridges.
• Checks product labels and try to buy local, organic or fair trade products. Buying locally produced goods helps support the community and reduces costs (and
environmental impacts) associated with transportation.
• Purchases ENERGY STAR® Products. Looks for the Energy Star label when buying electronic equipment and appliances. This programme certifies equipment meeting
specific quality and energy efficient criteria set by the US Environmental Protection Agency and US Department of Energy. Once certified, these products receive the
ENERGY STAR® label. The ENERGY STAR® Website provides specific information on labelled products in over 40 categories of office equipment, appliances, home
electronics, lighting, heating and cooling, and commercial food service products.
Land use
Lawn care
Yale encourages people to consider growing a garden instead of maintaining (cutting and fertilizing) a grass lawn. By choosing to grow wildflowers or native fruit and
vegetable plants, you will save on lawn mowing time and fuel costs, reduce pesticide and water use and the problems associated with runoff, while also creating a more
aesthetic, productive, and natural environment.
Landscapes
Yale encourages staff to work in partnership with community groups to replant, restore and reclaim the environment in the City of New Haven. Programmes include
Community Greenspace work, School and Youth Outreach, Ecosystem Management and Planning, and Urban Ecosystem Research.

41
Yale University (continued)
Community action
Volunteer involvement in local opportunities related to personal issue/interest area (eg AIDS, Arts, Civil Rights, Disabilities, Health Care, Homelessness, Women's, etc).
The Sustainability Pledge
Over 450 members of the Yale community have signed the Sustainability Pledge, committing themselves to reducing their environmental footprint and contributing to the
goals the university has set to become more sustainable. The pledge, launched in April 2008 to coincide with Earth Day and the Yale Sustainability Summit, was one of the
first initiatives of the Sustainability Leaders Programme, a growing group of staff volunteers from around the university who work with the Office of Sustainability to
promote a culture of sustainability in their departments. The pledge encourages signatories to incorporate three new environmentally responsible practices into their daily
routines. The actions range in scope from reducing energy consumption to purchasing sustainable supplies to eating local and organic foods.

42
2.4 SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTAL PRACTICES OF LOCAL CORPORATE BUSINESS
A number of examples of green institutional behaviour of selected international universities
were explored in the preceding exhibit. The exploratory research presents an ideal framework
for designing a sustainable environmental policy as well as green strategies and goals and
implementation and action plans. To meet this endeavour, annexure A elaborates on some
examples of green policies, goals and action plans. To broaden the framework, exhibit 2.2 also
presents some examples of green practices of corporate businesses listed among the top-100
market capitalisation companies on the Johannesburg Securities Exchange (JSE).

43
EXHIBIT 2.2
SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTAL BUSINESS PRACTICES OF SELECTED TOP-100 JSE COMPANIES 1
BRITISH AMERICAN TOBACCO PLC
Sustainability mission/vision
The company recognises that effective environment, health and safety management is a desirable and integral part of its business performance and culture.
As such, it is committed to the conservation of the physical environment, the sustainability of natural resources, and the maintenance of the highest
practicable levels of health and safety of employees, contractors and visitors on the company premises. The company has implemented various programmes
and plant design changes based on the ‘3Rs-principle’ (reduce, recover, recycle) - to reduce its environmental impact. Its programmes cover energy
conservation, water, air, and soil protection, afforestation, minimising the use of natural resources, agrochemicals, and raw materials and minimising the
generation of waste. A key element of these programmes is to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, which have been linked to global warming.
Sustainable agriculture
Its support in sustainable agriculture is aimed at the economic and social empowerment of aspirant farmers who require the necessary skills and assistance to
become self sufficient. Projects supported include a community maize growing project by the Jumba community in West Tembuland in the Eastern
Cape. British American Tobacco also supports the Sustainability Institute based in Lynedoch, Stellenbosch, which is a nonprofit trust founded in 1999. In
particular, British American Tobacco South Africa funds the Institute's Master’s Programmes in sustainable development, planning and management as well as
sustainable agriculture. These are aimed at providing students with knowledge and practical experience for the benefit of their communities.
Sustainability Institute
The Sustainability Institute is an international living and learning centre for studies and experience in ecology, community and spirit and has worked in
partnership with British American Tobacco South Africa since 2004. The Sustainability Institute provides a space for people to explore an approach to creating
a more equitable society that lives in a way that sustains rather than destroys the ecosystem within which all society is embedded.
BHP BILLITON PLC
Sustainability mission/vision
For BHP Billiton, sustainable development is about ensuring that itse business remains viable and contributes lasting benefits to society through the
consideration of social, environmental, ethical and economic aspects. The company’s vision for sustainable development is to be the company of choice and to
create sustainable value for shareholders, employees, contractors, suppliers, customers, business partners and host communities. Central to its vision is its
aspirational goal of Zero Harm to people, host communities and the environment.
1 Include companies with a market capitalisation value ranging from R6 billion to R462 billion.

44
BHP BILLITON PLC (continued)
Climate change
The company’s climate change position includes greenhouse gas and energy targets and measures, investment in research and development of low carbon
emissions technologies, and a commitment to participate in the design of effective national and international climate change policies. Its position reflects
priorities around stakeholder attitudes, changing government policies and potential business opportunities consistent with its aspirational goal of Zero Harm to
employees, communities and the environment
Engagement and disclosure
For the past six years, BHP Billiton has participated in the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), which provides a secretariat for the world's largest institutional
investor collaboration on the business implications of climate change. In addition, BHP Billiton was selected to the CDP Climate Leaders Index from 2004 to
2007, representing the 'best in class' responses to the CDP questionnaire.
Biodiversity and land management
BHP Billiton clears land for access to resources and for construction of waste rock dumps, tailings facilities and associated refining and processing
infrastructure. It also manages large tracts of land for exploration leases, for future development, for biodiversity conservation purposes and as a buffer from
neighbouring land uses. Its activities through land clearing, discharge of waste water, waste disposal and air emissions have the potential to impact on
biodiversity habitat and species of conservation significance.
Water
Access to high-quality water is an issue of growing international importance and a key challenge for sustainable development. BHP Billiton uses water in
mining, smelting, refining and petroleum processes. Its activities are often located in remote, arid environments where access to high-quality water is limited.
It continues to identify business risks and opportunities for water access, re-use or recycling, efficient use and responsible waste water disposal. It has set an
aggregate group target of 10 % improvement in the ratio of water recycled/re-used to high-quality water consumed by mid-2012.
Waste
Wastes - mineral and nonmineral - are generated at various stages throughout resource extraction and processing. BHP Billiton’s HSEC Management Standards
Mandate has programmes to improve its practices to minimise waste generation, increase recycling, and prevent pollution through proper disposal. Such
programmes are designed with the aim of complying with both national and international waste management regulations and maximising the recovery of
resources. Air emissions are also a part of its operations; however, in line with its commitment to continual improvement, it requires sites to ensure that
emissions are identified and managed to reduce potential impacts over time.

45
BHP BILLITON PLC (continued)
Sustainable projects
• Hunter River Remediation Project - Cleaning up more than 80 years of steel manufacturing
The Hunter River Remediation Project is a large-scale environmental project that is designed to effectively remediate the Hunter River bed affected by
industrial activities associated with the former BHP Steelworks in Newcastle, Australia.
• Managing impact in Indonesia - Maruwai Coal Project's Biodiversity Strategy
The Maruwai Coal Project (MCP), wholly owned by BHP Billiton, is seeking to develop high quality coking coal resources within the Maruwai Basin in
Central Kalimantan on the island of Borneo, Indonesia. The area is world-renowned for its biodiversity and undertaking mining in such an area requires
careful management of the biodiversity it impacts on.
• World's first power plant to use coal mine ventilation air as fuel
In September 2007, BHP Billiton officially opened BHP Billiton's West Cliff Ventilation Air Methane Project (WestVAMP) - a world-first greenhouse gas
reduction initiative. Situated at BHP Billiton Illawarra Coal's West Cliff Mine (NSW, Australia), the project is the first demonstration of commercial power
generation solely from mine ventilation air.
• Illawarra coal makes Sydney's largest volume reduction in water use
Sydney Water recognised the achievements of BHP Billiton's Illawarra Coal in dramatically reducing demand for drinking quality water. In presenting
Illawarra Coal with the Largest Volume Reduction Award, Sydney Water stated that The Appin Mine reduced its water consumption by an outstanding 660
kilolitres per day - achieving the largest reduction in water use for 2006/07 among Sydney's 1.7 million homes and businesses.
• Reducing waste and providing sustainable employment opportunities
Petroleum reduces offshore waste and provides sustainable employment opportunities onshore.
ANGLO AMERICAN
Sustainability mission
The company believes in conducting business with a view to the needs of the future, by minimising any negative impacts of operations on the environment and
working with local communities to ensure that they benefit from activities.
Water
Anglo Coal and BHP Billiton have turned a liability – underground mine water – into an asset bringing clean water to the Emalahleni community in South Africa.
Biodiversity
Anglo Coal Australia has a river restoration project to repair damage caused by years of agricultural degradation. More than 7 000 native tree species have
been planted along a nine kilometre ridge. The company also has a biodiversity conservation plan at Copebrás.

46
ANGLO AMERICAN (continued)
Biodiversity
Copebrás is in Cubatão, an industrial centre in the Brazilian Atlantic rain forest region, one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems. The Atlantic rain forest is
also home to 70 % of Brazil’s population and human impact has been significant, with less than 7 % of the original ecosystem remaining. The company has,
therefore, chosen to focus its social responsibility activities on contributing to the understanding and conservation of the country’s unique natural heritage.
Anglo American and Fauna and Flora International (FFI) embarked on a global partnership in 2007 to promote greater sharing of knowledge on biodiversity
issues and support the group’s focus on best practice. Anglo American and international environmental NGO Fauna and Flora International (FFI) have
committed to a three-year strategic partnership on biodiversity conservation.
Energy and climate change
The company focuses on energy efficiency, reductions in CO 2 emissions, building clean coal partnerships, investing in new technology, implementing clean
development mechanisms and spreading awareness. In support of this endeavour, Tarmac’s Tunstead Quarry in the UK is using waste materials as energy
sources to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve local air quality and beneficially use waste materials that would otherwise go to landfill.
Waste management
The company’s mining operations inevitably generate mineral waste, such as rock and tailings and nonmineral waste such as general and industrial waste.
Considerably less nonmineral waste is produced on its operations now than before since Anglo American is increasingly recycling nonmineral waste wherever
possible, either for our own use or by transforming it into commercial commodities. To support this initiative, research by Anglo Research is focusing on
reducing the energy and water consumed by group companies. Some projects are showing potential to improve the recovery of valuable materials, reduce
capital costs and the use of chemicals, as well as achieve energy savings. Anglo American's research and development programme has won several awards in
recent years.
SAB MILLER PLC
Water
Colombia: Working in partnership to protect a river basin
The company’s Colombian business, Bavaria, is working with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and Bogotá Water Company to protect the basin that provides
water to Bogotá. The basin is being seriously deforested, particularly by cattle breeders wanting to create grazing land to produce milk. Deforestation affects
the local ecosystems and, while it does not reduce the capacity of the basin to produce water, it means that more sediment is washed into the supply. This, in
turn, means higher costs for the water company and ultimately its customers. Bavaria has invested US$145 000 in the project. This money will be used to
develop partnerships with the cattle breeders to improve their production methods and reduce sedimentation in the river.

47
SAB MILLER PLC (continued)
Romania: Using water more efficiently
URSUS breweries in Romania have been reducing the amount of water they need to make each litre of beer. Much of the progress has come from the
installation of a new brewhouse at the Timisoreana brewery, which is set to increase output from 21 000 to 75 000 hectolitres per week. This in itself will
improve the water-to-beer ratio. In addition to the water-efficient technology in the new brewhouse, URSUS has invested in other technologies to cut its use
of water. All new production streams now have systems that recover water from the brewing stages for use in cleaning processes that don’t need high quality
water. More accurate process controls and better water-monitoring systems have also made a difference. These changes have led to over a 15 %
improvement in water efficiency across the group of breweries.
Mozambique: Clean water for the community
The Mozambique business, Cervejas de Moçambique (CDM), remains committed to giving disadvantaged communities greater access to clean water.
Working in partnership with the Foundation for Community Development, CDM installed a borehole at Inhagoia near its Maputo brewery in March 2009. At a
cost to the brewery of US$30 000, the borehole will bring clean water to an estimated 600 inhabitants. The company also built 10 fountains in different parts
of Beira, benefiting around 60 000 inhabitants. The aim is not only to give disadvantaged communities greater access to clean water, but also to reduce
illnesses and diseases such as malaria, diarrhoea and cholera. As well as installing the boreholes, the business is helping to educate the community in watermanagement
issues such as conservation, the appropriate use of water and proper sanitation. Including the projects implemented in previous years, CDM
has now brought clean water to an estimated 120 000 people.
Waste
South Africa: Producing compost from brewery waste
The Prospecton Brewery in Durban, South Africa, illustrates how waste from operations, in this case effluent, can be re-used and processed into soil-boosting
compost. Waste sludge in the effluent balance tanks was tested and found to be suitable for a fertiliser-type additive in compost. The sludge is residue from
the malted barley, hops and yeast and was previously removed from the brewery three times a week and disposed of to landfill. As the sludge is now being
re-used as a source of nutrients for agricultural soil, its removal as waste has reduced to once a week, resulting in savings of approximately US$39 000 a year.

48
SAB MILLER PLC (continued)
El Salvador: Award-winning environmental management
The Central American Environment and Development Committee (CCAD) has awarded our Salvadoran company, Industrias La Constancia, the Regional
Cleaner Production Award. The business also received an honourable mention in the water category. The CCAD commended the company for its 67 %
increase in the recycling of postproduction factory materials in the last year, its 58 % reduction in the amount of solid waste sent to landfill and its 62 % cut in
water use in the last eight years. The award recognises the company's efforts to keep improving its production processes to protect the environment. It
highlights its achievements in creating waste reduction and recycling programmes and installing a recycling centre in the brewing plant.
Energy and carbon
USA: MillerCoors increases transport efficiency by almost 20 %
One result of the MillerCoors joint venture has been to improve transport efficiency by almost 20 %. Before the joint venture, both Miller and Coors were
transporting some of their products large distances to reach all areas of the USA. This was particularly the case with Coors, with its brewery in Golden,
Colorado. The saving has been achieved by brewing Coors Light and other Coors brands in Miller breweries and Miller products in Coors breweries. It is
estimated to equate to 45 million fewer miles travelled, 325 000 barrels of crude oil saved and a reduction in CO 2 emissions of nearly 75 000 tonnes by the
end of 2010. There is further scope to raise efficiency by increasing load weights. This project is still in its early stages but offers considerable savings.
India: Energy from rice husks
SABMiller India has invested in renewable energy sources including agtriculatural waste. In May 2007 the first rice husk boiler was installed as part of the
expansion of the Rochees Brewery in Rajasthan. The boiler uses agricultural waste, typically rice husk, as fuel. The many benefits include reducing
manufacturing and fuel costs (especially as the price of rice husk is relatively stable); reducing the brewery’s dependence on scarce fossil fuels; and generating
extra income for local farmers from the sale of the husks. In addition, rice husk ash can be sold on for use as a cement filler, an insulator in steel mills and an
input for activated silica extraction. The initiative has been so successful it has been extended to two other breweries in Andhra Pradesh and the new
Greenfield Brewery in Haryana.
South Africa: Super smart about power
With South Africa facing power shortages over the next seven years, the South African government is requiring businesses to cut the power they use by 12 %
to 15 %. SAB is a signatory to the Department of Minerals and Energy (DME) Energy Efficiency Accord which promotes voluntary cooperation in meeting
national energy efficiency targets. The ‘Super Powers’ campaign at SAB Ltd is one tool towards this end. With the tag line, ‘Super smart about power’, the
campaign engages staff, raises awareness of the issue and encourages employees to suggest ideas as to how and where energy can be saved. As an incentive,
an energy-efficient fridge was offered as a prize at each site. By the end of the campaign in November 2008, employees had submitted 381 suggestions. The
Super Powers campaign is just one element of a far wider initiative, which has so far reduced SAB’s energy consumption by up to 10 %.

49
MTN GROUP LIMITED
Sustainability vision
The environmental dimension of MTN's sustainability relates to its impact on living and nonliving natural systems, including ecosystems, land, air and water.
Environmentally, the telecommunications sector is typically classified as being of medium impact. MTN has made significant strides in recent years to
standardise processes across its operations to ensure impacts on the natural environment are managed effectively. Environmental performance across the
group is in line with international industry standards, and it strives to continually improve its performance. Diverse approaches have been adopted to ensure
environmental preservation and social development initiatives are identified and implemented in different countries of operation. The company goal is to
minimise adverse environmental impacts, while increasing the potential for contributions to social and economic development within local business and
communal contexts. The company continually monitors and aims to improve its environmental performance to meet and exceed international industry
standards.
STANDARD BANK GROUP LTD
Sustainability initiatives
The South African environmental legal register was updated and registers were developed for the company’s operations in the eight countries that received
funding from the International Finance Corporation namely: Botswana, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia. The company
implemented a waste management system to reduce waste output and manage the recycling of waste in South Africa. An analysis to better understand the
environmental risks faced by the bank, including consumption of natural resources, business travel, waste generation, information technology and energy
consumption, was conducted in the recent past. Various workshops, presentations and training sessions have been held to create awareness of the direct
environmental impact of Standard Bank’s operations. Its carbon footprint measurement included seven sites (which account for the majority of our South
African electricity consumption) and business travel by air. The decision to sign up to the Energy Efficiency Accord has not yet been made, however the
company continues to grow its understanding of its own climate change impacts and vulnerabilities, as well as the risks and opportunities posed to society and
customers in particular.
ANGLO PLATINUM LIMITED
Environmental management system
All operations in the group have environmental management systems (EMS) that comply with the ISO 14001: 2004 standard. This is an international standard
for environmental management systems and is based on three key principles, namely prevention of pollution, compliance with relevant environmental
legislation and continual improvement in performance. Achieving and maintaining ISO 14001 certification of an EMS is a way to demonstrate a company’s
commitment to manage environmental risks and impacts.

50
ANGLO PLATINUM LIMITED (continued)
Training and awareness raising
The Anglo Group is also involved in a number of alien vegetation eradication projects, community cleanups and biodiversity awareness-raising and training
initiatives within local communities. Examples include:
• Celebrating Arbor Day at most operations, to raise awareness of the importance of nature and of trees specifically.
• Facilitating a snake-handling course at Amandelbult as part of implementing its biodiversity action plan (BAP) commitments.
• Facilitating SAQA-accredited alien and invasive species courses for 10 members of the Moruleng village near Union.
• Planting of indigenous trees at most operations on a continual basis.
• Continued management of the biodiversity offset areas at Mogalakwena.
• Training of 10 members of local communities near Mogalakwena Mine to become effective game rangers. They are now employed in the biodiversity offset
areas.
• The Waterval Smelter greening project.
ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI
Environmental mission
The company is committed to continually improving its processes in order to prevent pollution, minimise waste, increase carbon efficiency and make efficient
use of natural resources. The company commits itself as follows:
• To develop innovative solutions to mitigate environmental and climate risks.
• To recognise that the long-term sustainability of its business is dependent upon good stewardship in both the protection of the environment and the
efficient management of the exploration and extraction of mineral resources.
• To comply with all applicable environmental laws, regulations and requirements.
• To commit to establishing and maintaining management systems to identify, monitor and control the environmental aspects of its activities.
• The company will ensure that financial resources are available to meet its reclamation and environmental obligations.
• The company will ensure that its employees and contractors are aware of this policy as well as their relevant responsibilities
• To conduct audits to evaluate the effectiveness of its environmental management systems.
• To commit to communicating and consulting with interested and affected parties on environmental aspects of its activities.
• To work to continually improve its environmental performance; and
• The company will participate in debate on environmental matters at international, national and local levels.

51
ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI (continued)
Developing a business case for climate change
In December 2007, AngloGold Ashanti CEO Mark Cutifani set a short- to medium-term target for the group of reducing energy consumption by 15 % per
ounce of gold produced and a medium- to longer-term target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) by 30 % per ounce of gold produced. Cutifani was
emphatic that the group, as a notable GHG emitter, needed to address climate change holistically, admitting that these were ‘stretch’ targets and encouraging
the group to start looking at nontraditional means of attacking the problem.
Growing vegetation to reduce environmental damage
AngloGold Ashanti has planted around half a million trees over the last decade for research on using phyto (plant) technologies to prevent and repair
environmental impacts from the company’s tailings storage facilities (TSFs) in South Africa.
Engagement on the Wonderfontein Spruit
AngloGold Ashanti continues its engagement with all stakeholders with regard to heavy metal contamination of the Wonderfontein Spruit. At issue is the
suggestion that higher than acceptable levels of uranium and other heavy metals are present in the spruit, which has been the focus of research to determine
the risk to informal settlements, formal townships and subsistence farmers who use the water in an untreated form.
Navachab works towards cyanide code certification
In 2005 AngloGold Ashanti became a signatory to the International Cyanide Management Code, a voluntary initiative for the gold mining industry that focuses
on the safe management of cyanide being produced, transported and used for the recovery of gold. It is compulsory for all of AngloGold Ashanti’s operations
to be in compliance with this code.
ABSA GROUP LIMITED
Sustainable mission/vision
Absa focuses on creating environmental awareness, education and conservation; with a view to preserving the country’s rich natural heritage and providing
disadvantaged communities with trees and access to water; through partnerships with the Peace Parks Foundation, World Wildlife Fund, Department of
Environmental Affairs and Tourism and the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry.

52
SHOPRITE HOLDINGS LIMITED
Property development
The sacredness of the physical environment forms one of the cornerstones of the group’s business philosophy. The company states that it will, as a matter of
principle, not buy or develop an environmentally sensitive site nor will it undertake a development that is detrimental to the bio-physical or built surroundings.
Packaging
Packaging is of major importance to the group as it is resolved to deliver products to the consumer in a way that is convenient to use, appealing and safe to
consume the content. The group aims to assist its vendors in their endeavour to deliver shelf-ready-packaging. Wherever possible, returnable transit
packaging and recyclable materials are used. Following the purchasing of the product - as a responsible retailer - the group’s involvement is to motivate
vendors to follow legislation and to utilise environment-friendly materials.
Waste management
The group believes in a responsible and environment-friendly approach to waste management. Compliance with legislation is corporate policy and only
municipally approved dumping sites are used. The group has and continues to invest in infrastructure and services necessary to filter water and toxic material
prior to effluent entering municipal lines at retail outlets.
Energy management
It is company policy to select energy efficient equipment and to implement energy management systems wherever practical and viable. The group endeavours
to stay abreast of technological advancements to achieve these aims and it is proud of the fact that over the last three years the implementation of an energy
management programme has led to savings exceeding R21 million. The energy saved is enough to power 10 000 average households for 12 months.
THE SPAR GROUP LIMITED
Environmental programme
SPAR, in conjunction with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the British Council, SAASTA, Eskom, Sustainability United (an Environmental
Network for Children, Women and NGOs) and a number of other educational role-players in KwaZulu-Natal hosted a three-day Africa Regional Children's
Conference on the Environment, in August 2009, in Durban. The event is also a reflection of the environmental goal of the company, which aimed at:
• giving African children (10-to-14-year-olds) the knowledge and ability to respond to and take action regarding the challenges presented by climate
change
• developing a national network of children focused on environmental and climate change issues
• delivering clear benefits at all levels
• promoting the UNEP's work with children
• developing a climate change lesson plan that can be used by all primary schools in SA
• promoting long-term cultural relations, educational and leadership benefits

53
MONDI PLC
Environmental awareness
A new initiative called ‘Platform Footprint’ (a joint project of WWF, Greenpeace, GLOBAL 2000, SERI, and others) aims to make a valuable contribution to
enhancing people’s environmental awareness. This project is also supported by Mondi Business Paper, which has been committed to sustainable corporate
practices for years.
Environmental awards
Environmental-Savings-Award
For outstanding performance in the areas of environmental and operational efficiency, Mondi Business Paper Hungary has been awarded the Environmental-
Savings-Award 2006 by KÖVET – the Conscious Corporate Management Association. The award was presented by the Hungarian Minister of Environment and
Waters, Miklós Persányi. Mondi’s business paper unit was recognised, based on the following achievements:
• Modification of a cleaning plant resulted in a reduction of residuary materials by over 5 000 tonnes compared to 2003.
• Annual savings of HUF 60-70 million (approx EUR 230 000 – 270 000) through selective recycling.
• Reduction in waste volume by 6 000 m3 through improved waste management.
American Israeli Paper Mills Ltd( AIPM) Green Globe Award
One of Israel's most important World Environment Day initiatives is the Green Globe Awards, sponsored by Life and the Environment, Israel's umbrella
organisation for some 100 environmental NGOs. During the high-profile Green Globe Award ceremony, special prizes are presented to organisations, projects
and individuals who have taken significant action on behalf of the environment in Israel. Mondi Hadera Paper contributed to AIPM’s environmental
achievements in a number of ways, including:
• switching from heavy fuel oil to natural gas, which dramatically decreased the SO 2 , NOx and particulate emissions
• improving the overall machine runnability, which increased total production and thereby reduced specific water consumption
• increasing the dry matter content of the filler concentrate, which resulted in a decrease of fresh water consumption and effluent
• pre-treating (pre-digestion) the effluent of the starch system before transferring it to the waste water treatment which resulted in a decrease of the
chemical oxygen demand (COD).
Packaging
With the Heavy Load Packaging (HLP), Mondi created a foldable one-way high performance box with an integrated pallet, completely made of corrugated
board. The HLP is a cost-efficient, environmentally friendly and light weight packaging solution which is strong in performance even for overseas
transportation.

54
WOOLWORTHS HOLDINGS LIMITED
Packaging and waste
Packaging is an important aspect of our product offering - protecting, informing and promoting the product. Woolworths is committed to finding ways to
minimise, if not eliminate, packaging wastage and the focus will be to reduce, recycle, re-use or compost all packaging. Packaging will be reduced to the
essential requirements of product protection, promotion and information. Targets include a one third of packaging of clothing and a 20 % reduction in food
packaging. Customers will continue to be encouraged to use reusable shopping bags, thereby reducing the number of new bags required, and there will be an
increase in the percentage of recycled material in all Woolworths plastic shopping bags – 100 % recycled material in Woolworths clothing shopping bags by
2012.
Recycling
Woolworths has two ranges of recyclable shopping bags (a locally-made reusable fabric shopping bag and a Woolworths reusable plastic art bag). Depending
on quality and availability, it incorporates as much as 50 % recycled material in many of its plastic clothes hangers; supermarket baskets and trolleys, and
where possible, sleeves on ready-made meals, dips and other food products are made from board which has 80 % recycled paper content. Woolworths head
office has converted, where possible, to recycled paper usage in all printers and photocopiers and, again where possible, recycled paper is used for
communication, for example Woolworths in-house publications (ShopTalk, Small Talk, our annual financial statements and sustainability report are printed on
100 % recycled paper) and redundant IT hardware is currently recycled on an ad hoc basis. A formal policy and procedure is in place regarding the disposal of
our IT waste.
Energy
Woolworths have continued to improve electricity consumption due to the use of programmable logic controllers, which manage lighting, air-conditioning and
refrigeration systems in stores; ongoing awareness programmes, campaigns and presentations at stores; greater use of the existing direct-on-line monitoring
system whereby electrical consumption can be monitored in stores and the conversion of all lighting in the Western and Eastern Cape stores to the use of
energy efficient electronic control gear as part of the Eskom DSM programme.
Fuel
Woolworths operates its delivery fleet as efficiently as possible and is committed to reducing the diesel usage per distributable unit and, consequently, the
emission rate.
Water
Woolworths is targeting a 30 % reduction in water consumption and is developing a programme to encourage suppliers to do the same. Local fabric mills and
dye houses are required to adhere to the internationally benchmarked Dyeing and Finishing Environmental Code of Practice, which seeks to ensure that no
materials, dyes or chemicals used in the production of Woolworths’ garments or textiles present an unacceptable risk to health or to the environment during
their manufacture or disposal. Suppliers are audited against this code.

55
NAMPAK LIMITED
Environmental education
The Worldwide Fund for Nature and the Department of Education have been introducing the Eco-Schools project - aimed at relevant environmental education
throughout South Africa, but have been hampered by a lack of resources. Nampak has agreed to help launch the project by providing R0.5 million per annum
for three years with the intention of providing appropriate people resources. The group also helps to create awareness of litter and the management thereof
through:
• sponsorship of litter recycling projects
• support of school collection and clean-up systems (run by Collect-A-Can) and
• providing previously disadvantaged individuals with seed money, to establish small businesses in the collection of litter
Nampak Liquid donated all the HDPE bottles to the 2008 Two Oceans Marathon and partnered with NP Corrugated and the SA Plastics Federation to keep the
12km stretch around Chapman's Peak litter free.
DIMENSION DATA HOLDINGS PLC
Environmental sustainability
Dimension Data acknowledges that climate change is a serious issue and it is committed to minimising its contribution to its causes. In particular, the company
is conscious that the IT industry, in which we operate, is a significant contributor to the world’s climate change challenge. As a member of the global business
community, Dimension Data is highly concerned about the impact of climate change on this and future generations. Although the company is not a
manufacturer of goods, it recognises that its operations have a part to play in addressing the causes of climate change (the emission of greenhouse gases) and
it takes this responsibility very seriously. With this in mind, the company has initiated a programme to integrate improvements to its own environmental
performance with the four components of its business strategy, ie driving profitable growth; offering a world class experience to clients; delivering operational
excellence to clients and investing in people and culture. The company’s environmental sustainability programme is based on three pillars:
• Licence to operate, demonstrated by the following:
o examining its own business operations and those of partners and suppliers
o disclosing its greenhouse gas (GHG) emission levels and the risks and opportunities of climate change for the organisation
o developing an Environmental Management System based on the ISO 14001 framework
o participating in industry bodies and councils addressing environmental sustainability issues
• Carbon-friendly infrastructure
The solutions and services developed to address environmental sustainability are based on the company approach that green ICT strategies should be
treated as an extension to existing ICT best practice to decrease waste, reduce cost, remove complexity, increase productivity and manage risk. For
example, the techniques for reducing a company’s emissions lead directly to reductions in the electricity they consume, and hence produce overall
longer-term savings for the business. It is possible to be both an environmental hero, and an economic one.

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DIMENSION DATA HOLDINGS PLC (continued)
• Environment - engagement of employees.
As a global company, Dimension Data recognises that its operations have an impact on the environment. As such, corporate sustainability has been an
integral part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme since its inception. Dimension Data has had a Corporate Sustainability Policy in
place since 2005, which ensures all stakeholders are aware of the environmental impact of its corporate activities and that appropriate mitigating
actions are being implemented. Through its regional CSR programmes, Dimension Data employees have engaged in a range of fund-raising and
volunteering efforts supporting global and local environmental causes. Environmental think-tanks have been established in Europe, the Americas,
Africa and Australia, comprised of Dimension Data employees, to champion creative ideas and engage with employees and partners on how to reduce
Dimension Data’s impact on the environment.
In 2008, the company expanded its employee engagement efforts by launching both an environmental sustainability intranet site ‘Greenpoint’ on
Dimension Data’s global intranet and a personal online carbon calculator tool to assist employees in calculating their carbon footprint and providing
tips and tricks on how to reduce their footprint at work and at home. In 2009, Dimension Data launched a Green Photography Competition, which
encouraged employees to submit photographs of the environment, winners selected through a voting process open to all employees. Greenpoint
serves as an exchange for ideas internally and encourages employees to become involved. It is a central portal for all employees, covering key areas
of Dimension Data’s environmental sustainability programme, including user-generated content, news, a green blog and information on green
initiatives throughout the organisation.
Environmental management
In 2009, Dimension Data also commenced the deployment of its Environmental Management System (EMS) in three pilot countries (United Kingdom, South
Africa and Australia), which were selected as their collective GHG emissions contribute to over 67 % of the company’s FY07 GHG inventory and they collectively
represent a broad suite of the group’s business models, and consequently, its environmental risk. Dimension Data has established a dedicated sustainability
team to complete the reporting requirements of the CDP submission programme each year, and to implement its EMS and wider sustainability strategy
globally.

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2.5 SUSTAINABLE CORPORATIONS IN THE WORLD
The Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World is a project initiated by
Corporate Knights Inc with research powered by Innovest Strategic Value Advisors Inc, a
leading research firm specialising in analysing extra-financial drivers of risk (ie
environmental, labour, and human rights) and shareholder value, including companies’
performance on social, environmental and strategic governance issues. In broad, the
purpose of the Global 100 is to annually reinforce, raise awareness and highlight the 100
most sustainable corporations in the world who are most willing and able to deal with
the key social and environmental factors as part of their everyday operations.
Companies on the Global 100 list are thus leaders in terms of environmental, social and
governance (ESG) risk and opportunity management. Launched in 2005, the annual
Global 100 is unveiled annually during the World Economic Forum in Davos. Table 2.1
reflects the Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World (Corporate Knights
2009).
TABLE 2.1
GLOBAL 100 MOST SUSTAINABLE CORPORATIONS IN THE WORLD
Company Name Country Sector
Acciona SA Spain Utilities
Accor France Consumer Discretionary
Adidas AG Germany Consumer Discretionary
Advanced Micro Devices United States Information Technology
Aeon Company Limited Japan Consumer Staples
Air France-KLM France Industrials
Alcoa Inc United States Materials
Amazon.com Inc United States Consumer Discretionary
Atlantia Italy Industrials
Atlas Copco AB Sweden Industrials
BASF SE Germany Materials
Baxter International Inc United States Health Care
BG Group PLC United Kingdom Energy
BHP Billiton PLC Australia Materials
British Land Company PLC United Kingdom Financials
British Sky Broadcasting Group PLC United Kingdom Consumer Discretionary
Cable & Wireless PLC United Kingdom Telecommunication Services
Cairn Energy PLC United Kingdom Energy
Cont…

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TABLE 2.1 (continued)
Company Name Country Sector
Centrica PLC United Kingdom Utilities
Coca Cola Company United States Consumer Staples
Credit Agricole SA France Financials
Daikin Industries Limited Japan Industrials
Dell Inc United States Information Technology
Deutsche Boerse AG Germany Financials
Dexus Property Group Australia Financials
Diageo PLC United Kingdom Consumer Staples
East Japan Railway Company Japan Industrials
Eastman Kodak Company United States Consumer Discretionary
Encana Corp. Canada Energy
Ericsson Telephone AB Sweden Information Technology
FPL Group Inc United States Utilities
Fresenius Medical Care AG Germany Health Care
Geberit Switzerland Industrials
Genzyme Corp. United States Health Care
Glaxosmithkline PLC United Kingdom Health Care
Goldman Sachs Group Inc United States Financials
Groupe Danone France Consumer Staples
H & M Hennes & Mauritz AB Sweden Consumer Discretionary
Hewlett-Packard Company United States Information Technology
Hochtief AG Germany Industrials
Honda Motor Company Limited Japan Consumer Discretionary
Iberdrola SA Spain Utilities
Inditex SA Spain Consumer Discretionary
Intel Corp. United States Information Technology
Kesko OYJ Finland Consumer Staples
Kuraray Company Limited Japan Materials
Lafarge SA France Materials
Land Securities Group PLC United Kingdom Financials
Lend Lease Corp. Limited Australia Financials
London Stock Exchange Group PLC United Kingdom Financials
Lonmin PLC United Kingdom Materials
L'Oreal France Consumer Staples
Michelin France Consumer Discretionary
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Limited Japan Industrials
Muenchener Rueckversicherung AG Germany Financials
Neste Oil OYJ Finland Energy
Nike Inc United States Consumer Discretionary
Nippon Yusen KK Japan Industrials
Nokia Corporation Finland Information Technology
Novo Nordisk A/S Denmark Health Care
Novozymes A/S Denmark Materials
NTT Data Corp. Japan Information Technology
NTT Docomo Inc Japan Telecommunication Services
Cont…

59
TABLE 2.1 (continued)
Company Name Country Sector
Panasonic Corporation Japan Consumer Discretionary
PG & E Corp. United States Utilities
Pinnacle West Capital Corp. United States Utilities
Procter & Gamble Company United States Consumer Staples
Prologis United States Financials
Prudential PLC United Kingdom Financials
Reed Elsevier PLC United Kingdom Consumer Discretionary
Ricoh Company Limited Japan Information Technology
Roche Holdings Limited Switzerland Health Care
Royal Bank Of Canada Canada Financials
Sainsbury (J) PLC United Kingdom Consumer Staples
Saint Gobain France Industrials
Saipem Italy Energy
SAP AG Germany Information Technology
SCA AB Sweden Materials
Scania AB Sweden Industrials
Sekisui Chemical Company Limited Japan Consumer Discretionary
Sims Metal Management Ltd Australia Materials
Smith & Nephew PLC United Kingdom Health Care
Sompo Japan Insurance Japan Financials
State Street Corp. United States Financials
Statoilhydro ASA Norway Energy
Stora Enso OYJ Finland Materials
Swiss Reinsurance Company Switzerland Financials
Telus Corp. Canada Telecommunication Services
The Capita Group PLC United Kingdom Industrials
The Walt Disney Company United States Consumer Discretionary
TNT NV Netherlands Industrials
Toppan Printing Company Limited Japan Industrials
Toronto-Dominion Bank Canada Financials
Toyota Motor Corp. Japan Consumer Discretionary
Transcanada Corp. Canada Energy
Unilever PLC United Kingdom Consumer Staples
United Technologies Corp. United States Industrials
Vestas Windsystems A/S Denmark Industrials
Wartsila OYJ Finland Industrials
Whitbread PLC United Kingdom Consumer Discretionary

60
2.6 CONCLUSION
This chapter presented an overview of tertiary education institutions leading sustainable
environmental business practices internationally. Although the scope of the chapter on
universities was largely international, it should be noted that some local universities
have started with sustainable environmental initiatives. In this regard, the Nelson
Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) in Port Elizabeth and the University of
Stellenbosch (US) have started implementing sustainable environmental practices,
although there are no formal sustainable environmental policies as yet at these
universities. The following initiatives, among others, are explored/implemented:
• Energy efficiency measures (close monitoring of energy usage and costs)
• Energy efficiency improvement in data centres (ie purchase energy efficient
servers, airflow recirculation, switching off servers not required, enable energy
management software
• Sustainable procurement (ie new Energy Star servers)
• Responsible paper printing and copying (ie eliminate paper printing, optimise
printing on systems, reduce toner)
• E-waste
• Sustainable IT Blog
• Server virtualisation 2
• Webinars via the Association of South African Universities’ Directors in
Information Technology (ASAUDIT) Green IT Special Interest Group of which Unisa
also forms part
2 Server virtualisation is the masking of server resources, including the number and identity of individual physical
servers, processors and operating systems from server users. The server administrator uses a software application
to divide one physical server into multiple isolated virtual environments.

61
The sustainable environmental practices highlighted in the chapter provide an ideal
opportunity for Unisa to explore the sustainable environmental business strategies,
goals and initiatives of other universities to contribute to its own mission of improving
green campus life. Obviously, Unisa will have its own unique sustainable environmental
policy, strategy and goals due to its unique priorities/issues but many of the institutional
examples could simply be replicated as these bear relevance to Unisa as well. As with
educational institutions (see exhibit 2.1), the extent to which sustainable environmental
business practices are implemented in the corporate world (see exhibit 2.2), is evidence
of their commitment to sustainable business practices, which also reflects a business
case for such practices. Not only have large businesses become more aware of
environmental issues but they have also become more proactive. Most major
companies now have formal environmental management systems and environmental
auditing programmes and many produce environmental reports for public consumption.
The growing use of partnership (ie industry, regulators and environmental nongovernmental
organisations - NGOs) approaches to dealing with environmental
problems is also evident from the secondary research. For industry in particular,
partnership approaches help to enhance the credability and legitimacy of operations
and practices.
Besides contributing to cost savings, responsible corporate citizenship could potentially
secure business sustainability and correspondingly future brand image building. In fact,
a sustainable business is one that operates in an environmentally responsible way. From
the discussion it could be deduced that businesses can gain from sustainable green
practices not only financially but also by promoting their reputation and market status.
From the exploratory research presented in this chapter is was clear that green offices
and workplaces are not just about saving energy and recycling. There is a vast array of
other opportunities that businesses can grasp to enhance the company’s image and
simultaneously move towards sustainability. Green design, both of the building and the

62
products created, reduced pollution, energy efficiency and recycling all feature as part
of a sustainable office and workplace. Thus, for sustainable development it will be
necessary to bring sustainable principles into the entire business operation. Without a
holistic approach many business efforts may be disjointed and mismanaged.
From this chapter it is clear that sustainability is currently an important aspiration in
society and all companies should strive to achieve their environmental goals. An
organisation such as Unisa also has the potential to improve efficiency, productivity and
the status of the university through sustainable means. However, sustainability cannot
be achieved overnight, and businesses, including Unisa, will increasingly be challenged
to adapt rapidly to changing conditions. To be successful, commitment towards
sustainable environmental practices at Unisa is required from both management and
staff.

63
CHAPTER 3
ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF RESEARCH AMONG STAFF
3.1 INTRODUCTION
The survey finding resulting from the self-completed interviews conducted among
550 academic, professional and administrative staff at Unisa participating in the
Green Office Survey is presented in this chapter. More specifically, the first part of
the chapter focuses on the Unisa Sustainable Environmental Office Practice survey
findings completed by academic, professional and administrative staff. This
discussion is followed by the outcome of the sustainable educational survey among
a selection of staff within the academic community of Unisa.
3.2 DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE OF RESPONDENTS
To contextualise the outcome of the survey results for the Unisa sustainable
environmental office practice survey, an overview of selected demographics is
presented in table 3.1. The table shows the proportional (%) distribution of each
demographic by subgroup.
TABLE 3.1
DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE OF RESPONDENTS
Demographics %
Qualification
Diploma/Certificate 22.2
B/Honours Degree
32.0
Postgraduate (M&D)
45.8
Tenure
< 5 years 23.4
> 5 years 76.6
cont…

64
TABLE 3.1 (continued)
Demographics %
Gender
Male 34.8
Female 65.2
Age
21 to 34 14.9
35 to 44
28.8
45 to 54
35.0
55 or older
21.3
Population group
Designated
Nondesignated
32.6
67.4
Table 3.1 shows that, of the 557 survey participants, almost half (45.8 %) have
postgraduate degree qualifications while approximately three quarters (76.6 %)
have been employed at Unisa in excess of five years. More female (65.2 %) than
male (34.8 %) staff participated. Approximately a third (35.0 %) of respondents are
between 45 and 54 years of age. A third of the respondents designated their
population group (32.6 %). The sample distribution for the survey largely
corresponds to the distribution of staff by college. However, it seems that younger
staff were slightly undersampled.
The primary reason for differentiating the survey findings according to the selected
demographic variables outlined in table 3.1, was to measure statistically significant
differences between the subgroups of each major variable. In this regard, it was
possible to detect, for example, whether males are more ‘green’ than females. The
various statistical tests to establish differences in subgroup demographics are
discussed in more detail in section 3.9. Prior to these analyses, the sections to
follow provide a detailed exposition of the outcome of the Unisa sustainable
environmental office practice survey findings.

65
3.3 OFFICE ENVIRONMENT
The first section of the sustainable environmental office practice survey focused on
the office environment of Unisa staff with the main aim to establish whether the
work environment is conducive to encourage ‘green’ office behaviour (see section
1.3.1 for a detailed exposition of the office equipment or furniture measured). The
claimed access of staff to the various office equipment/furniture measured, is
outlined in figure 3.1.
FIGURE 3.1
STAFF ACCESS TO OFFICE EQUIPMENT/FURNITURE
Fridge 1.6
59.8
38.6
Hot water urn 1.6
81.9
16.5
Coffee making machine
1.8
22.8
75.4
Shredder
2.2
33
64.8
Photocopier
2.7
88.5
8.8
Bar fridge
3.4
22.3
74.3
Fax machine
3.8
88.3
7.9
Multi-purpose machines
5.4
34.8
59.8
Unisa cellphone
6.1
2.5
91.4
Air conditioner
14.9
29.6
55.5
Laptop
25.5
8.6
65.9
Printer
60.7
37
2.3
Private cellphone
85.6
1.3
13.1
Personal computer
86.7
4.7
8.6
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Individual access Shared access No access

66
Figure 3.1 shows that most staff have individual access to a personal computer,
private cellphone or printer. In turn, more than eight out of every 10 share a fax
machine, photocopier or hot water urn. Although just more than 90 % do not have
access to a Unisa cellphone, 85.6 % have access to a private cellphone. Finally,
65.9 % have no access to a laptop, while 55.5 % have no access to an air
conditioner. From the outcome of the survey findings reflected in figure 3.1, it
could be concluded that staff have access and direct or indirect control over office
equipment/furniture to support ‘green’ office behaviour. Of concern, however, is
the high proportion of staff with no access to own laptops and air conditioning.
This shortcoming disallows these staff members from employing ‘green’ practices
related to these facilities.
The section on the staff office environment also focused on access, availability and
control over office infrastructural features (excluding office furniture and
equipment). These features focused on office air and light (natural and
fluorescent) features as well as access to and existence of hand-blow driers and
paper towels in bathrooms most often used by staff. The outcome of these survey
findings are presented in table 3.2.
TABLE 3.2
STAFF ACCESS TO AND AVAILABILITY TO OFFICE AIR AND LIGHT
AND BATHROOM FEATURES
Statement %
Do you have any live plants in your office to help improve air quality? 30.2
Is there a substantial amount of natural light available in your work area(s)? 78.3
Does your office have windows that open to allow fresh air movement in and stale air out? 70.4
Does your office have its own light switch? 74.9
Can you control the air conditioner system independently? 18.7
Does the bathroom, used most often by you, have hand-blow driers? 80.3
Does the bathroom, used most often by you, have paper towels? 26.9
Table 3.2 shows that approximately a third of the respondents do not have any live
plants in their office to help improve air quality. Furthermore, a third of the
respondents indicated that their offices have no windows that open to allow fresh
air movement in and stale air out.

67
Only a fifth (18.7 %) of the respondents indicated that they have control over the
air conditioning system, while almost a quarter have no direct control of light
switches in their office. Although only a quarter of the respondents indicated that
the bathroom used most has paper towels, some qualitative feedback indicated
that paper towels are seldom available. As evident from the survey findings, most
(80.3 %) of the respondents indicated that the bathroom used most often has
hand-blow driers.
3.4 ENVIRONMENTAL INTEREST, AWARENESS AND BEHAVIOUR
The discussion in the sections to follow firstly focuses on staff’s environmental
interest, awareness and sensitivity. Secondly, staff’s ‘green’ office behaviour is
analysed in more detail.
3.4.1 Environmental interest
Survey participants’ reading and viewing behaviour with regard to and interest in
environmental issues as well as their ability to source information on these issues
are reflected in table 3.3 below.
TABLE 3.3
ENVIRONMENTAL INTEREST AND AWARENESS OF RESPONDENTS
Statement %
Do you read articles on environmental issues? 78.5
Do you watch programmes on environmental issues? 85.1
Levels of interest in environmental issues
• Not interested
• Interested
• Extremely interested
4.7
73.1
22.3
Do you know where to find environmental information? 75.8
It is clear from table 3.3 that Unisa staff claim to be avid readers and viewers of
environmental materials. Less than 5 % of the respondents indicated that they are
not interested in environmental issues. This reflects high to extremely high interest
levels among nine out of every 10 staff members. Staff’s interest in environmental

68
issues correlates positively with their ability to track environmental information
(75.8 % know where to seek environmental information). The information depicted
in table 3.3 thus reflects high claimed environmental interest and awareness.
3.4.2 Environmental sensitivity
Figure 3.2 reflects the extent to which environmental issues have an impact on
staff.
FIGURE 3.2
ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVITY OF STAFF IN THE WORKPLACE
Fluorescent lights annoy
me
39.0
22.3
23.5
9.7
5.6
Sensitive to noise in the
workplace
6.3
13.5
23.7
30.7
25.9
Sensitive to air
temperature at work
3.8
9.3
30.2
29.4
27.3
Hard to work in a room
without natural light
10.6
7.2
20.3
24.6
37.3
Very sensitive to
crowded work spaces
4.34.7
13.6
28.4
49.0
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Not at all Slightly Moderately Considerably Extremely
It is clear from figure 3.2 that approximately half the staff indicated that they are
extremely sensitive to crowded work spaces. Although 78.3 % of the staff indicated
that there is a substantial amount of natural light available in work areas (see table
3.2), approximately 60.0 % indicated that they find it hard (24.6 %) or extremely
(37.3 %) hard to work in a room without natural light. This finding would seem to

69
contradict the finding that approximately two thirds of the respondents indicated
that they are not or only slightly annoyed by fluorescent lights.
It also important to note from figure 3.2 that 56.7 % of the respondents indicated
that they are considerably (29.4 %) or extremely (27.3 %) sensitive to air
temperature at work. However, only two out of every 10 participants (18.7 %)
claimed to have independent control of the air conditioning in their office.
3.4.3 ‘Green’ office behaviour
The core of the study was devoted to the measurement of ‘green’ office behaviour
by Unisa staff. As indicated, in chapter 1 (see section 1.3.1), the primary focus
areas included were paper usage, printing and storage; energy/electricity; waste;
recycling; water; food and travelling. The level of participation in ‘green’ office
practices for each of these focus areas is discussed in detail in the sections to
follow.
3.4.3.1 Paper usage, printing and storage
In total, 12 predefined office behaviour items related to paper, printing and storage
were included in the survey questionnaire. These items were measured on a fivepoint
rating scale, ranging from ‘never’ practiced to practiced ‘all the time’. For
items not relevant to an individual, a ‘not applicable’ option was also added.
For all items, the ‘never’ scaled option reflected poor green behaviour while the ‘all
the time’ scaled option reflected excellent green office behaviour. This ruling
applied to all items except print every electronic document received via e-mail for
which the scale was reversed with ‘never’ reflecting excellent green office
behaviour. The colour coding used in figure 3.3(a) reflects the office behaviour of
staff related to paper usage, printing and storage where the dark green bars reflect
excellent ‘green’ behaviour and the red bars poor ‘green’ behaviour except for the
reversed items marked by an asterisk (*).

70
The office behaviour of participating staff, related to paper usage, printing and
storage, is captured in figure 3.3(a).
FIGURE 3.3(a)
PAPER USAGE, PRINTING AND STORAGE BEHAVIOUR
Print every electronic document received via e-mail*
28.8
60.2
8.22.7
I use my laptop to view documents or record minutes during
meetings instead of using hard copy
46.9
28.2
18.8
6.1
Photocopier is set on default to double-sided photocopying
59.5
25.1
9.0
6.3
Use recycled paper
14.8
55.1
22.5
7.5
I sort single-sided and double-sided used papers
38.5
28.5
20.3
12.6
Computer is set on default to double-sided printing
58.5
17.7
11.0
12.8
I use e-cards or e-postcards for communication purposes (ie,
invitations, promotions, etc)
22.4
25.5
29.4
22.7
I store files electronically or on disks instead of placing
printed copies in file cabinets
4.5
18.4
48.9
28.2
I read all e-mail-attached documents received on screen 1.4 15.6
45.9
37.1
I read all e-mails on screen rather than printing them 2.3 13.9
42.3
41.4
I attempt to make revisions on screen before printing in hard
copy
2.9
13
41.8
42.3
I send e-mails instead of memos and letters on paper 1.6.9
41.6
49.9
I only use colour printing when necessary
20.5
5.7
16.0
57.7
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Never Sometimes Most of the time All the time

71
Figure 3.3(a) reflects the highest level of ‘green’ behaviour for the following items:
• I only use colour printing when necessary (all the time - 57.7 %)
• I send e-mails instead of memos/letters on paper (all the time - 41.6 %)
• I attempt to make revisions on-screen before printing in hard copy (all the time
- 42.3 %)
• I read all e-mails on-screen rather than printing them (all the time - 41.4 %)
• I read all e-mail attached documents on-screen (all the time - 37.1 %)
Office behaviour that shows the lowest level of ‘green’ behaviour included the
following:
• Photocopier is set on default to double-sided photocopying (never - 59.5 %)
• Computer is set on default to double-sided printing (never - 58.5 %)
• I use my laptop to view documents or record minutes during meetings instead
of using hard copy (never - 46.9 %)
• I sort single-sided and double-sided used papers (never - 38.5 %)
3.4.3.2 Energy/electricity
In total, 20 predefined office behaviour items related to energy/electricity usage
were included in the survey questionnaire. These items were measured on a fivepoint
rating scale, ranging from ‘never’ practiced to practiced ‘all the time’. For
items not relevant to an individual, a ‘not applicable’ option was also added.
For all items, the ‘never’ scaled option reflected poor green behaviour while the ‘all
the time’ scaled option reflected excellent green office behaviour. This ruling
applied to all items except I have a heater on at all times during the winter and I use
a screen saver on my computer monitor for which the scale was reversed with
‘never’ reflecting excellent green office behaviour. The colour coding used in figure
3.3(b) reflects the office behaviour of staff related to energy/electricity usage
behaviour where the dark green bars reflect excellent ‘green’ behaviour and the

72
red bars poor ‘green’ behaviour except for the reversed items marked by an
asterisk (*).
The office behaviour of participating staff, related to energy/electricity usage is
captured in figure 3.3(b). It should be noted that the results on energy/electricity
usage behaviour is split into two figures due to the large number of variables being
measured.
FIGURE 3.3(b(i))
ENERGY/ELECTRICITY USAGE BEHAVIOUR
I use my work cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send
e-mails/doc
89.4
6.12.8
1.7
I have the heater on at all times during the winter*
46.7
41.2
8.4 3.8
I use my private cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send
e-mails/doc
76.0
14.6
4.15.4
I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic
systems everyday
73.5
14.4
5.8 6.2
I fax directly from my computer to avoid printing
61.3
16.0
13.6
9.2
I switch off my PC monitor if away from my office for more than
30 minutes
62.8
20.5
7.3
9.4
I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic
systems when absent from office for more than a day
66.8
15.7
6.8
10.7
I switch off lights during external meetings
38.6
17.2
10.7
33.5
My computer at work is pre-set to a power save mode
42.2
5.1
11.5
41.2
The kitchen appliances of my business unit is switched off over
night
25.7
16.6
16.3
41.4
Never Sometimes Most of the time All the time
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

73
FIGURE 3.3(b(ii))
ENERGY/ELECTRICITY USAGE BEHAVIOUR (continued)
I switch off my air conditioner
when I leave my office during
office hours/external meetings
32.0
14.1
10.2
43.8
I switch off lights of unused
offices
23.6
14.4
15.6
46.4
I switch off my printer
overnight/end of day
27.9
13.6
9.4
49.1
I switch off my photocopier
when leaving my office at
night/end of day
22.8
9.4
10.0
57.8
I switch off my air conditioner
when leaving my office at dayend/overnight
27.0
5.1
5.1
62.8
I have control of my office
lighting
24.5
4.1
6.4
64.9
I use a screen saver on my
computer monitor*
15.4
8.6
10.8
65.2
I switch off my PC monitor
overnight/end of day
16.7
8.6
8.0
66.7
When leaving the office at dayend
I switch off my computer
5.3
6.4
8.9
79.4
I switch off lights when leaving
my office in the evening
8.1
2.34.5
85.1
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Never Sometimes Most of the time All the time
Figure 3.3(b(i) & (ii)) reflects relatively more responsible energy/electricity usage
for the following items:
• I switch off lights when leaving my office in the evening (all the time - 85.1 %)

74
• When leaving the office at day-end I switch off my computer (all the time -
79.4 %)
• I switch off my PC monitor overnight/end of day (all the time - 66.7 %)
• I have control of my office lighting (all the time - 62.8 %)
Least responsible office behaviour was recorded for the following items:
• I use my work cell phone to connect to the Internet to read/send e-
mails/documents (never - 89.4 %)
• I use my private cell phone to connect to the Internet to read/send e-
mails/documents (never - 76.0 %)
• I remove the plugs from the sockets(s) used for office electronic systems
everyday (never - 73.5 %)
• I remove the plugs from the sockets(s) used for office electronic systems when
absent from office for more than a day (never - 68.8 %)
• I use a screen saver on my computer monitor (reverse item) (all the time -
65.2 %)
• I switch off my PC monitor if away from office for more than 30 minutes (never
- 62.8 %)
• I fax directly from my computer to avoid printing (never - 61.3 %)
3.4.3.3 Waste management
In total, 18 predefined office behaviour items related to waste management were
included in the survey questionnaire. These items were measured on a five-point
rating scale, ranging from ‘never’ practiced to practiced ‘all the time’. For items not
relevant to an individual, a ‘not applicable’ option was also added.
For all items, the ‘never’ scaled option reflected poor green behaviour while the ‘all
the time’ scaled option reflected excellent green office behaviour. This ruling
applied to all items except for the following five:

75
• I use plastic/polystyrene drinking cups (reverse item)
• The office uses disposable cups/utensils for office functions (reverse item)
• I use cover sheets when faxing documents (reverse item)
• I dispose of my litter anywhere if a waste bin is not available (reverse item)
• I dispose of my unwanted ‘junk-mail’ in a waste bin instead of recycling
(reverse item)
In the case of the above items, the scale was reversed with ‘never’ reflecting
excellent green waste management behaviour. The colour coding used in figure
3.3(c) reflects the waste management behaviour where the dark green bars reflect
excellent ‘green’ behaviour and the red bars poor ‘green’ behaviour except for the
reversed items marked by an asterisk (*).
Behaviour of participating staff, related to waste management, is captured in figure
3.3(c).
Responsible waste management practices were notable for the following items:
• I dispose of litter anywhere if a bin is not available (never – 91.1 %)
• I use my own drinking mug for coffee/tea (all the time - 79.8 %)
• I re-use the internal Unisa envelopes (all the time - 60.7 %)
• The office uses disposable cups/utensils (reverse item) (never - 59.1 %)
• I use colour printing only when necessary (all the time - 57.7 %)
• I use plastic/polystyrene cups (reverse item) (never - 56.8 %)
Items recording the worse waste management practices include the following:
• I use the e-waste facility at Unisa (never = 70.9 %)
• I separate office waste paper from other waste material (never = 56.5 %)
• I re-use refillable pens/pencils (never = 32.2 %)
• I send printer cartridges to refill/re-use (never = 27.5 %)
• I use cover sheets for faxing documents (reverse item) (all the time = 26.5 %)

76
FIGURE 3.3(c)
WASTE MANAGEMENT BEHAVIOUR
I use plastic/polystyrene drinking cups*
56.8
37.4
3.82
The office uses disposable cups/utensils for office functions*
59.1
29.4
7.3 4.2
I dispose of my litter anywhere if a waste bin is not available*
90.1
4.4 1.3 4.2
I use the e-waste facility at Unisa
70.9
17
4.1
8
I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for printing
24.6
42.5
18.3
14.6
I seperate office waste paper from other waste material
56.5
16.5
12.3
14.7
I use refillable pencils/pens
32.2
26.5
21.2
20.2
I dispose of my unwanted ‘junk-mail’ in a waste bin instead of
recycling*
32.1
25
21.4
21.4
I use cover sheets when faxing documents*
19.2
30.9
24.3
25.6
I re-use plastic window envelopes
20.6
29
23.7
26.7
I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for scrap paper
10.3
31
28.7
30
I re-use packaging boxes
10.2
33.3
25.3
31.2
I re-use old files/folders
4.4
24.8
30.5
40.3
I send used printer cartridges for refill/re-use
27.5
12.4
11.6
48.5
I use PowerPoint instead of paper presentations during
meetings/presentations
9.9
16
25.3
48.8
I use colour printing only when necessary
20.5
5.7
16
57.7
I re-use the internal Unisa envelopes
2.7 12.1
24.6
60.7
I use my own drinking mug for coffee/tea
4.64.5
11.1
79.8
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Never Sometimes Most of the time All the time

77
3.4.3.4 Recycling behaviour
In total, 13 predefined office behaviour items related to recycling behaviour were
included in the survey questionnaire. These items were measured on a five-point
rating scale, ranging from ‘never’ practiced to practiced ‘all the time’. For items not
relevant to an individual, a ‘not applicable’ option was also added.
For all items, the ‘never’ scaled option reflected poor green behaviour while the ‘all
the time’ scaled option reflected excellent green office behaviour. This ruling
applied to all items. The colour coding used in figure 3.3(c) reflects the nature of
responsible recycling by using the real behavioural outcomes where the dark green
bars reflect excellent ‘green’ behaviour and the red bars poor ‘green’ behaviour.
Behaviour of participating staff, related to responsible recycling behaviour, is
captured in figure 3.3(d).
Figure 3.3(d) shows that for more than half (seven) the 13 items measuring
responsible recycling, more than half of the respondents ‘never’ practice the
following:
• Shredding and recycling of CDs
• Recycling empty aluminium cans and shredded documents. Almost 60 % of
the respondents indicated that they never use the Unisa recycling bin while
approximately 65 % never use a centrally located departmental recycling bin.

78
FIGURE 3.3(d)
RECYCLING BEHAVIOUR
I shred CDs using Unisa's e-waste
facility
88.9
4.42.24.4
I shred CDs using own/office
equipment
88.6
6
1.04.5
I recycle unused CDs
68.2
14.1
9.5
8.2
I recycle empty aluminum cans
64.4
19.2
7.9
8.6
I use Unisa’s recycle bin
58.1
22.6
10.1
9.2
I use the centrally located recycle
bin in my business unit
65.8
16.3
8.0
9.9
I recycle shredded documents
63.8
12.9
10.0
13.3
I recycle empty plastic/glass
bottles
49.9
22.7
13.0
14.4
I recycle double-sided paper
48.0
20.8
13.8
17.4
I recycle single-sided paper
28.8
28.6
22.9
19.7
I discard my cigarette butt in a
waste bin
49.5
14.1
11.1
25.3
I use my own desk-side recycle
bin
44.3
12.6
16.0
27.1
I recycle printer/toner cartridges
36.8
11.9
13.2
38.1
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Never Sometimes Most of the time All the time

79
3.4.3.5 Water usage
In total, 5 predefined office behaviour items related to water usage were included
in the survey questionnaire. These items were measured on a five-point rating
scale, ranging from ‘never’ practiced to practiced ‘all the time’. For items not
relevant to an individual, a ‘not applicable’ option was also added.
For all items, the ‘never’ scaled option reflected poor green behaviour while the ‘all
the time’ scaled option reflected excellent green behaviour. This ruling applied to
all items except I instinctively drink tap water at work without considering the
potential contamination for which the scale was reversed with ‘never’ reflecting
excellent green behaviour. The colour coding used in figure 3.3(e) reflects the
behaviour of staff related to water usage behaviour where the dark green bars
reflect excellent ‘green’ behaviour and the red bars poor ‘green’ behaviour with the
exception of the reversed item marked by an asterisk (*).
The behaviour of participating staff, related to water usage, is captured in figure
3.3(e).
Figure 3.3(e) shows responsible behaviour among survey participants in terms of
using water wisely (properly closing taps after use) and sparingly. One in four
survey participants do not use a water flask for drinking water. Of concern,
however, is the fact that approximately a third of respondents instinctively drink
tap water without considering the potential of contamination.

80
FIGURE 3.3(e)
WATER USAGE BEHAVIOUR
I instinctively drink tap water
at work without considering
the potential of
contamination*
33.8
18.3
13.7
34.2
I use my own flask at work for
drinking water
40.0
11.7
10.8
37.5
When making tea/coffee I only
heat as much water as
needed/required
10.7
17.8
31.1
40.4
When using water taps at
1.74.1
work, I use water sparingly
19.9
74.4
When using water taps at
work, I ensure that the tap is 0.0 0.75.2
properly closed after use
94.0
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Never Sometimes Most of the time All the time
3.4.3.6 Ethical food consumption
In total, 2 predefined office behaviour items related to ‘ethical’ food consumption
were included in the survey questionnaire. These items were measured on a fivepoint
rating scale, ranging from ‘never’ practiced to practiced ‘all the time’. For
items not relevant to an individual, a ‘not applicable’ option was also added. For
both items, the ‘never’ scaled option reflected poor green behaviour while the ‘all
the time’ scaled option reflected excellent green behaviour. The colour coding
used in figure 3.3(f) reflects the behaviour of staff related to ethical food
consumption by using the real and adjusted behavioural outcomes where the dark
green bars reflect excellent ‘green’ behaviour and the red bars poor ‘green’
behaviour.
The behaviour of participating staff, related to food consumption, is captured in
figure 3.3(f).

81
FIGURE 3.3(f)
ETHICAL FOOD CONSUMPTION BEHAVIOUR
I consume organic or
eco-friendly food at work
21.4
46.5
20.4
11.8
I consume organic or
eco-friendly beverages at
work
25.1
46.2
17.8
10.9
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Never Sometimes Most of the time All the time
It is clear from figure 3.3(f) that approximately a quarter of survey participants
never consume ethical food or beverages at work. Just less than half consume
ethical food/beverages at work. One in every 10 survey participants consume
organic 1 food/beverages at work all the time.
3.4.3.7 Responsible travelling
In total, 6 predefined office behaviour items related to travelling were included in
the survey questionnaire. These items were measured on a five-point rating scale,
ranging from ‘never’ practiced to practiced ‘all the time’. For items not relevant to
an individual, a ‘not applicable’ option was also added.
For all items, the ‘never’ scaled option reflected poor green behaviour while the ‘all
the time’ scaled option reflected excellent green behaviour. The colour coding
used in figure 3.3(g) reflects the behaviour of staff related to travelling behaviour
by using the real and adjusted behavioural outcomes where the dark green bars
reflect excellent ‘green’ behaviour and the red bars poor ‘green’ behaviour.
1 ‘Organic’ applies to foods that are ‘produced without antibiotics, hormones, pesticides, irradiation or
bioengineering. Organic farmers must also meet certain requirements on soil and water conservation and
proper animal treatment.

82
The behaviour of participating staff, related to travelling, is captured in figure
3.3(g).
FIGURE 3.3(g)
RESPONSIBLE TRAVELLING BEHAVIOUR
I set up video conferencing rather than travel to ensure as low carbon
as possible
46.0
35.3
13.7
5.0
I set up phone meetings rather than travel to ensure as low carbon as
possible
36.0
32.5
23.9
7.6
I participate in carpool clubs to ensure that travel to work is as low
carbon as possible
71.5
15.0
5.0
8.5
I travel by bus to ensure that travel to work is as low carbon as possible
74.0
7.7
5.8
12.5
I use the Unisa bus shuttle service to ensure as low carbon as possible
54.3
21.5
8.5
15.7
When using a Unisa vehicle, it is clean
22.0
29.3
27.3
21.5
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Never Sometimes Most of the time All the time
It is clear from figure 3.3 that approximately 75 % and 70 % of survey participants
never travel by bus or participate in carpool clubs to ensure that travel to work is as
low carbon as possible. Just more than half the survey participants use the Unisa
shuttle bus service to ensure as low carbon as possible.
3.5 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSCIOUSNESS AND AWARENESS
As mentioned in section 1.3.1 (iv), the research also measured the ecoconsciousness
of staff as well as their awareness of sustainable environmentally
friendly signs/posters and policies at Unisa as well as their knowledge about and
support of biodiversity and landscaping. The outcome of these survey findings is
presented in table 3.4.

83
TABLE 3.4
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSCIOUSNESS AND AWARENESS OF RESPONDENTS
Statement %
I am not eco-conscious 9.2
I am eco-conscious as a result of Unisa’s efforts to promote ecological values 8.1
I am eco-conscious as a result of efforts outside Unisa to promote ecological 76.5
values
I don't know what eco-conscious means 6.3
It is clear from table 3.4 that approximately three quarters (76.5 %) of the survey
participants claim to be eco-conscious as a result of efforts outside of Unisa. Less
than 10 % claim to be eco-conscious due to Unisa’s efforts to promote ecological
values. A total of 15.5 % are either not eco-conscious (9.2 %) or don’t know what
eco-conscious means (6.3 %).
The section on environmental awareness also investigated whether Unisa staff are
aware of the signs/posters around offices or on campus. The finding is presented in
figure 3.4.
FIGURE 3.4
KNOWLEDGE OF ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS SIGNS POSTED ON UNISA’S CAMPUS
45
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
27.3
20.1
38.4
%
Energy saving Water saving E-waste disposal

84
It is clear from figure 3.4 that, despite the fairly aggressive e-waste disposal poster
campaign by Unisa, only approximately a third of staff claim to be aware of e-waste
signs/posters.
Finally, to test the awareness, opinions and knowledge levels of Unisa staff, six
additional questions were added as part of the environmental consciousness and
awareness section. The outcome of the survey findings related to these additional
questions is reflected in table 3.5.
TABLE 3.5
ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS, OPINIONS AND KNOWLEDGE OF STAFF
Statement %
Are you aware of Unisa’s policy on sustainable environmental office practices? 19.9
Do you know 10 or more SA indigenous plants used? 46.1
Do you think Unisa should use more indigenous plants in campus gardens? 91.7
Do you know what water wise gardening is? 76.7
Do you know what an invader plant is? 79.5
Have you noted invader plants in Unisa's gardens? 19.2
It is interesting to note from table 3.5 that, although Unisa does not have an
environmental office practice policy, approximately one in five survey participants
(19.9 %) claimed that they are aware of such a policy. Staff’s knowledge regarding
water wise gardening and invader plants seems very promising based on the fact
that seven out of every 10 participants claim to be knowledgeable about water
wise gardening and invader plants. Despite this knowledge, approximately only
one in five (19.2 %) participants have noted invader plants in Unisa gardens.
Approximately half (46.1 %) the survey participants indicated that they can list 10
or more South African indigenous plants.

85
3.6 SUSTAINABLE OFFICE PRACTICES
Besides measuring ‘green’ office behaviour, related to various focus areas (see
section 3.4.1), various other sustainable office practices were investigated by the
study. The focus on environmentally friendly office practices differentiated
between the internal office environment and the broader institutional
environment. Sections 3.6.1 and 3.6.2 elaborate in more detail on these
dimensions.
3.6.1 Internal office environment
Issues included here are monthly consumption levels of paper used, availability of
documentation within departments that encourage green office behaviour, linemanagers’
encouragement of green office behaviour, staff willingness to adopt
environmentally friendly measures and to act as ‘green’ ambassadors, perceived
personal responsibility towards developing a sustainable work environment at
Unisa and perceptions about own ‘greenness’ as compared to co-workers’. The
outcomes of the research on the various internal office environment dimensions
are discussed in detail below.
With reference to the quantity of paper consumed, survey participants indicated
that they use an average of eight paper reams per month. Given that 500 single
sheets of paper are contained in a ream of paper, a total of 4 000 sheets of paper
are consumed on average per month.
The extent to which departments and line managers direct and encourage green
office behaviour and willingness of staff to become involved in green office
initiatives in the near future, are reflected in table 3.6 and figure 3.5.

86
TABLE 3.6
DEPARTMENT ENCOURAGEMENT AND STAFF WILLINGNESS
TO BECOME INVOLVED IN GREEN OFFICE INITIATIVES
Statement %
Does your department have any documentation encouraging 'green' office
12.0
behaviour?
Does your line manager encourage environmental awareness/responsibility in 29.1
the workplace?
If requested/trained, would you volunteer to be a 'green ambassador' for your 55.1
department?
It is clear from table 3.6 that approximately 10 % of the survey participants
indicated that their department has ‘informal’ policies in place to encourage ‘green’
office behaviour. Just more than a quarter (29.1 %) of respondents indicated that
they are encouraged to practise or made aware of responsible ‘green’ behaviour by
line managers.
Table 3.6 also shows that just more than half (55.1 %) the survey participants
indicated that they will volunteer to be ‘green’ ambassadors if requested and
trained for this purpose. The willingness of survey participants to adopt
environmentally friendly measures (ie recycling, energy/waste conservation, etc) at
work is also evident from the information displayed in figure 3.5. In this regard,
nine out of 10 participants indicated that they are willing to adopt environmentally
friendly measures at work.

87
FIGURE 3.5
WILLINGNESS OF RESPONDENTS TO ADOPT ENVIRONMENTALLY
FRIENDLY MEASURES
100
93.7
80
60
40
20
0
6.1
0.9
%
Uncertain Willing Not willing at all
Besides showing high levels of willingness to adopt environmentally friendly
measures at work, approximately three quarters (74.9 %) of survey participants
indicated that they regard themselves as responsible for developing a sustainable
work environment. A further 20.3 % indicated an extreme sense of responsibility
towards developing a sustainable work environment (see figure 3.6).
FIGURE 3.6
LEVEL OF RESPONSIBILITY TOWARDS DEVELOPING A SUSTAINABLE WORK ENVIRONMENT
80
74.9
60
40
20
0
4.8
20.3
%
Not responsible Responsible Extremely responsible

88
The concluding section on internal sustainable office practices included three
agreement statements on ‘green’ citizenship. The outcome of these survey
findings is reflected in figure 3.7.
FIGURE 3.7
STAFF’S PERCEPTION OF ‘GREEN’ CITIZENSHIP
My colleagues are more
'green' compared to
myself
12.6
35.2
47.2
4.31.7
My office environment is
'green'
15.3
30.9
32.3
19.0
2.5
I am a 'green'
ambassador
3.9
16.2
39.7
35.9
4.3
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Totally disagree Disagree Neither agree nor disagree Agree Totally agree
Table 3.7 reflects higher individual confidence levels about ‘green’ behaviour when
compared to the ‘green’ behaviour of colleagues. In this regard, 47.8 % of
respondents disagree/totally disagree with the fact that colleagues are more
‘green’ than themselves. Only 6 % of survey participants are of the opinion that
their colleagues are more ‘green’ than themselves. Furthermore, 35.9 % and 4.3 %
of participants agreed or totally agreed with the fact that they regard themselves as
‘green’ ambassadors.
3.6.2 Institutional environment
Issues addressed at this level included staff’s perceptions of:
• The level of priority that Unisa gives to ‘green’ issues.
• Priority suggestions for Unisa on sustainable office practices (ie energy/water
waste reduction and investment in low carbon energy supplies and
technologies).

89
• Initiatives to be considered by Unisa to improve staff exposure to and
knowledge about sustainable office practices at Unisa (ie awareness
campaigns, training sessions, workshops, seminars, environmental
management policy, green induction environmental education programmes,
recycling programmes, appointment of green teams/ambassadors, regular
environmental news, e-mail bulletins, tip posters, sustainable office and
environmental management Website).
• Most effective methods in communicating environmental messages at Unisa
(ie Unisa newsletter, Website, e-mail, brochures, workshops/meetings,
manager/supervisor videos, training programmes and bulletin boards).
The outcome of the research findings related to the dimensions outlined above is
discussed in more detail below.
Figure 3.8 reflects the opinions of survey participants in terms of Unisa succeeding
in prioritising sustainable office practices and environments. The information
reflected in this figure displays low confidence levels in Unisa’s ability to promote
‘green’ issues. Approximately two-thirds of survey participants indicated that Unisa
awards no (17.1 %) or low (50.6 %) priority to ‘green’ issues.
FIGURE 3.8
PRIORITY LEVELS GIVEN TO ‘GREEN’ ISSUES BY UNISA
60
50
50.6
40
30
20
10
17.1
25.3
7
0
%
No priority Low priority Medium priority High priority

90
In an attempt to guide Unisa in terms of priority focus areas in support of
implementing sustainable office practices, survey participants were offered five
pre-determined priority areas to rate on a scale ranging from low, medium to high
priority. A ‘don’t know’ option was also added. The preferred priority areas and
corresponding levels of priority are displayed in figure 3.9.
FIGURE 3.9
SUSTAINABLE OFFICE PRACTICES IN THE WORKPLACE
NEEDING HIGH PRIORITY ATTENTION
Reducing car use to
reduce climate impact
and improve health
15.4
31.7
52.9
Investing in low carbon
energy supplies and
technologies
6.2
19.7
74.1
Reducing office waste
4.7
13.3
82.0
Reducing water wastage
5.5
10.5
84.0
Energy reduction in
offices
5.2
9.3
85.5
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Low priority Medium priority High priority

91
It is clear from table 3.9 that survey participants listed energy reduction in offices
as the highest priority area (85.5 %). This is followed by reducing water (84.0 %)
and office waste (82.0 %) as well as investing in low carbon energy supplies and
technologies (74.1 %).
Besides the predetermined priority areas for which respondents were expected to
rate the level of priority, the following additional priority areas were
recommended:
• On-site garden recycling project (own compost heap)
• Recycling:
o Provide clearly marked waste recycling bins in each department/office
o Encourage staff to take care of own recycling especially glass and cans
o Installation of glass, aluminium cans and plastic recycling systems on
campus
o Incentivise recycling practices
o More recycle bins for paper and glass
o Educate staff on how to recycle and re-use paper and other office
stationery
• Install time-switches in bathrooms to automatically switch off lights overnight
and weekends
• Encourage paperless office environment
• Attend to bathroom hygiene on first floor of AJH van der Walt building
• Implement ‘work-from-home’ strategy (implement virtual offices to reduce
carbon emissions)
• Monitor energy efficiency of buildings
o Monitor flood lights during the day
o Turn computers to power-save mode

92
• Encourage greener building rooftops
o Implement food growth schemes on building rooftops
o Cover roofs with plants
o Create garden friendly spaces on rooftops to rest and reduce water runoffs
• Generate electricity with steam and sun energy
• Improve office airflow by placing more pot plants in offices
• Improve cafeteria menus to include more organic and eco-friendly
food/beverages
• Install double-sided features on computers and printers
• Biodiversity
o Develop indigenous and bird-friendly gardens
• E-waste facility needs to be more visible and located at a safer location
• Implement/upgrade air-conditioning system in AJH van der Walt Building,
floor seven
• Electronic submissions of HR forms, eg salary slips (already in process via the
Oracle Self-Service module), leave forms, sick leave forms, etc
• Schedule routine inspection of communal water boilers
• Bus transport system must be expanded to transport staff located across all
areas
• Ensure that only emergency lights are used during evenings
The survey also investigated preferred ways of improving exposure to and
knowledge about sustainable office practices at Unisa. Respondents were
requested to rate 10 predetermined initiatives that Unisa should consider, ranging
from unimportant to important and extremely important. Staff preferences in this
regard are reflected in figure 3.10.

93
FIGURE 3.10
SUGGESTED INITIATIVES TO IMPROVE EXPOSURE TO AND KNOWLEDGE
ABOUT SUSTAINABLE OFFICE PRACTICES
Workshops and seminars
21.0
53.8
25.2
Appointment of green teams/ambassadors
27.1
54.9
18.0
Sustainable office and environmental
management Website
29.6
61.1
9.3
Green induction environmental education
programmes
31.8
61.8
6.4
Regular environmental news e-mail bulletin
33.4
60.5
6.1
Training to use printers and photocopiers to
optimise paper usage
33.5
60.3
6.3
Environmental management policy
38.4
56.4
5.2
Tip posters outlining actions to behave more
sustainably
40.5
56.3
3.2
Awareness campaigns
45.2
53.0
1.8
Recycling programme
55.6
44.0
0.4
0% 10
%
20
%
30
%
40
%
50
%
60
%
70
%
80
%
90
%
100
%
Extremely important Important Unimportant
The following initiatives emerged as the top five priorities for sustainable office
practice:
• Recycling programmes
• Awareness programmes
• Tip posters outlining actions to behave more sustainably (eg recycling tip
poster)
• An environmental management policy
• Training to use printers and photocopiers to optimise paper usage

94
Alongside the pre-determined initiatives, participants were also requested to
suggest any additional ways in which exposure to and knowledge about sustainable
office practices at Unisa can improve. Those additional initiatives mentioned
include the following:
• Celebrate environment day and tree planting day
• Establish an environment club for Unisa staff
• Raise awareness of environmental sustainability among students (ie recycle
paper)
• Run a competition and award for green beanies/people
• Provide statistical/visual information via e-mail on electricity and water usage
and effects of chemicals
• Provide daily environmental tips (and pop-up messages) as part of daily staff
communication via Intcom
• Improve office environment at satellite campuses to support green office
behaviour
• Rotate environmental practices by, for example, collecting waste on a
Monday, paper on a Tuesday, etc.
• Install printers and photocopiers that allow double-sided printing
• Sell recycled paper and glass and sponsor money to charities. Staff should be
involved by nominating charities to support.
• Implement a ‘green’ induction programme
• Consider vermiculture (worm composting) projects to recycle green and other
organic waste
• Link campus events to ‘green’ issues
Finally, survey participants were offered an opportunity to rate the effectiveness of
various mediums for communicating environmental messages at Unisa. The rating
scale ranged from not effective to effective and extremely effective. Respondents
were requested to rate a total of nine pre-determined medium types. A ‘don’t
know’ option was added. The outcome of the communication medium preferences
is outlined in figure 3.11.

95
FIGURE 3.11
PREFERENCES FOR COMMUNICATION MEDIUMS FOR
COMMUNICATING ENVIRONMENTAL MESSAGES AT UNISA
Brochures
10.1
51.8
38.0
Videos
10.5
50.3
39.2
Workshops/meetings
14.5
47.9
37.6
Bulletin boards
15.5
58.1
26.4
Training programmes
18.1
58.2
23.8
Unisa newsletter
20.5
54.1
25.4
Manager/supervisor
21.8
51.4
26.8
Unisa Website
25.6
50.3
24.1
Email
43.8
47.9
8.3
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Extremely effective Effective Not effective
It is clear from figure 3.11 that e-mail is regarded as the most effective medium to
communicate environmental messages at Unisa. Least effective are brochures and
videos.

96
3.7 RESPONSIBLE CONSUMERISM
Responsible consumerism was included as final topic matter of the study. This
section was added to measure the level of responsible shopping behaviour of
participating staff. The survey instrument was designed to include responsible
shopping for locally produced products (SA labelled products), recycled products,
organically produced fruit and vegetables and organic groceries excluding fruit and
vegetables (coffee, cereals, free-range eggs, etc). The outcome is presented in
figures 3.12(a) – 3.12 (d) below. It should be noted that a low 7.2 % of survey
participants indicated that they do not purchase any organic/recycled/locally
produced goods.
FIGURE 3.12
RESPONSIBLE PURCHASE BEHAVIOUR
(a)
PERCENTAGE OF UNISA STAFF WHO PURCHASE
LOCALLY PRODUCED PRODUCTS
14.7
(b)
PERCENTAGE OF UNISA STAFF WHO PURCHASE
RECYCLED PRODUCTS
47.6%
52.4%
85.3
Yes
No
Yes
No
(c)
PERCENTAGE OF UNISA STAFF WHO PURCHASE
ORGANICALLY PRODUCED FRUIT AND VEGETABLE
PRODUCTS
(d)
PERCENTAGE OF UNISA STAFF WHO PURCHASE
ORGANIC GROCERIES EXCLUDING FRUIT AND
VEGETABLES
36.3%
50.4%
49.6%
63.7%
Yes
No
Yes
No

97
3.8 SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION PRACTICES
As indicated in section 1.3.2, the academic community involved in the
environmental education bulletin board interviews were challenged by the
following aspects:
• The possibility of incorporating environmental awareness into critical cross-field
outcomes
• The extent that environmental awareness is embedded in critical cross-field
outcomes in current curricula/courses
• The extent that environmental awareness is embedded in critical cross-field
outcomes in the revised Programme Qualification Mix (PQM)
• Environmental issues that are already or should be mainstreamed in
curricula/courses
• Anticipation of problems in incorporating an environmental module into module
mix of a degree qualification
The research findings related to these aspects are discussed in more detail in this
section.
Given its relevance to this study, it is most appropriate to start the discussion by
firstly referring to the envisaged policy on curriculum development as well as the
Unisa Senate approved document entitled: The inclusion of the UNGC principles in
Unisa curricula. The executive summary of the latter document explicitly supports
the notion of embedding the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) principles at
Unisa across all curricula in ‘appropriate’ and ‘contextually relevant’ ways. The
UNGC was signed by Unisa in 2008 and consists of 10 principles to improve
corporate citizenship amongst public, private and civil-society entities. As
envisaged by the Unisa/UNGC steering committee, Unisa’s strategy, operations,
culture, research, teaching, learning and community engagement need to be
aligned with the UNGC principles. The UNGC principles focus on human rights,
labour standards, the environment and anti-corruption initiatives.

98
In so far as the environment as major focus of this study is concerned, the UNGC
principles (principles 7 – 9) states that businesses should:
• support a precautionary approach to environmental challenges
• undertake initiatives to promote greater environmental responsibility
• encourage the development and diffusion of environmentally friendly
technologies
Against the background of the Unisa Senate-adopted document on the inclusion of
the UNGC principles in Unisa curricula, and also based on the outcome of the
qualitative environmental education bulletin board interviews among the academic
community at Unisa, it is clear that sustainability as specific focus has not yet
realised to the extent that all programmes address all critical cross-field outcomes.
The only modules that could be identified as addressing sustainability as part of the
curriculum include the following:
• The fundamental module, Engaging with Society, that is offered by the School
of Human and Social Sciences.
• Environmental Law, which is an elective module for LLB offered by the School
of Law.
• The module on Corporate Citizenship offered by the Centre for Corporate
Citizenship at Unisa that currently is an elective module.
• Diploma in Paralegal Studies is a newly proposed qualification by the School
of Law.
• Various Geography modules dealing with environmental awareness and
responsibility at the Department of Geography from the School of
Environmental Sciences. The department is in the process of developing a
module in environmental awareness and responsibility on a NQF level 7.
• Environmental aspects are included in the ND and BTech curriculum of the
Department of Civil and Chemical Engineering. A double credit module on
environmental engineering is compulsory for all BTech students. For ND and
as part of the Work-in-Learning (WIL) programme, environmental aspects are
incorporated.

99
• The Department of Classics and World Languages does not include
environmental awareness in its language learning modules, but as part of
their Form 3s for most literature modules. The department also has a
specific module on environmental awareness in Greco-Roman Antiquity,
which forms one of the specific outcomes of the module.
When reflecting on the outcome of the environmental education bulletin board
interviews conducted in this study, the slow progress in addressing sustainability in
curriculum development is clearly notable. Although support of the Unisa
academic community seems high, and there are good intentions to effectively
address sustainability across all curricula, high levels of uncertainty and knowledge
among some staff on how to implement sustainability in curriculum development
prevail.
The following was evident from the environmental education bulletin board
interviews:
• Strong though some reserved support (although in some cases only on an
informal level) is uttered for the incorporation of environmental awareness
(as one of many critical cross-field outcomes) into critical cross-field
outcomes for all qualifications. Some respondents indicated that
environmental education is a global concern that needs to be addressed as
priority. Some respondents doubt the practically of embedding
environmental awareness into each and every module. A general module
such as ‘human ecology’ incorporating ethics, society, economics, politics and
philosophy, was suggested as a possible achievable outcome. However, as
cautionary note, some respondents indicated that some curricula are already
too cluttered and cannot afford to shed credits to a module on
environmental education.
• Environmental awareness is hardly embedded in critical cross-field outcomes
of current curricula/courses although this may vary, depending on the
qualification or module (see modules listed above).

100
• Environmental awareness is not extensively embedded in the critical crossfield
outcomes of the revised Programme Qualification Mix (PQM). Many
environmental awareness issues are largely ignored and many programmes
in their current format would probably only offer limited exposure to study
materials relevant to environmental sustainability.
• Suggested environmental issues to be included into some but not all
curricula/courses include:
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Corporate governance and sustainability reporting.
Energy conservation.
Global warming.
Waste management.
Impact of environmental change and the management thereof.
Environmentally friendly practices and policies.
Environmentally sensitivity factors.
Environmental awareness, environmental management, sustainable
resources, global warming and endangered species (specifically
relevant to courses such as literature).
No specific issue although the overarching learning outcome is
anticipated to have added value by rather creating awareness of the
fact that the environment is actually a social issue. In other words,
that the comfortable continuance of all human activities is absolutely
dependent on the environment.
At university level short learning programmes should be regarded as
the ideal tuition vehicle to mainstream environmental issues into
curricula/courses. In fact, schools rather than universities were
identified as the actual point where environmental education needs
to be taught and not at university level where specialised professional
qualifications are taught.
In support of a graduateness project at Unisa, sustainable
development should be mainstreamed into curricula/courses to
support the notion of producing quality graduates. The challenge to
Unisa is to develop sustainable skills, attitudes and values that will
empower and resource students as future leaders to bring about

101
change in pursuit of a more just and sustainable world. As part of this
endeavour, Unisa is challenged to increase students’ understanding of
economic, social and political forces that shape life.
• Currently no space is available to incorporate an environmental module into
the module mix of a degree qualification. In some cases the incorporation of
an environmental mix into a degree qualification is regarded as not being
pedagogically sound. In developing a multidisciplinary module on
environmental awareness and responsibility, the Department of Geography
in particular encountered problems with the relevance of many programmes
dealing with the ‘environment feel’ that are not necessarily conducive to its
own study discipline but show real potential to be highlighted as part of other
disciplines and programmes at Unisa.
• The university community needs to be sensitised on environmental education
and be guided on how to incorporate environmental issues into study
material. Furthermore, ideological academic barriers regarding the
environment need to be addressed as real commitment and interest in
environmental issues have not yet emerged at all levels although some
progress in terms of environmental awareness is notable. Correspondingly,
signs that industry’s environmental awareness is changing progressively, has
probably created a need for environment-conscious students.
3.9 GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RATING TOOL
Based on the design of the research model, it was possible to design a green office
rating tool for Unisa to measure staff’s office behaviour in terms of green practices
related to responsible paper, energy/electricity and water usage, waste
management, recycling as well as responsible food/beverage consumption and
travelling. The research model contained 76 statements related to green office
behaviour. Staff were instructed to rate the extent to which they practice or
adhere to specific green office behaviours. The rating ranged from never practiced
to practicing it ‘all the time’. It should be noted that the research instrument also
included some reverse-phrased (negative) statements that were corrected for
analysis purposes. Following this procedure, an index score for each behavioural

102
statement was computed by allocating a weight of 100 to responses reflecting
regular/constant green office practices and 0 in the absence of any green office
practices (never practice green office behaviour). The mean score for each green
office behaviour statement measured finally returned index scores that were
classified to reflect the following green rating categories:
Green rating category
Mean index score range
• Poor green office behaviour 0 – 25
• Moderate green office behaviour 26 – 50
• Good green office behaviour 51 – 75
• Excellent green office behaviour 75 – 100
In applying this methodology, a total mean index score for each of the 76
behavioural statements was computed. Ultimately ‘green’ behaviour rating scores
were computed for each of the seven core green behaviour focus area. The
outcomes of these findings are presented in tables 3.7 to 3.14. Tables 3.7 to 3.13
are also presented by selected demographic variable, office ownership profile and
interest in environmental issues to explore statistical differences in green office
behaviour across the selected variables. These total average index scores for the
selected variables (tables 3.7 – 3.13) differ slightly from the average total (table
3.14) index scores due to sample losses that occurred owing to the reluctance of
some respondents to provide certain demographic information. The items marked
with an asterisk (*) are the ‘reversed’ items for which the necessary adjustments in
terms of analysis have already been made. All of these items should thus be
interpreted by reversing the statements. For example, the index score rating for
the statement reading I print every electronic document received via e-mail has
been reversed, ie an ‘excellent green behaviour’ rating has been awarded to those
respondents who indicated that they ‘never’ print electronic documents received
via e-mail.

103
TABLE 3.7
GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RATINGS BY GENDER
Items
Male Female Total
Mean Mean Mean
Use recycled paper 38.50 43.00 41.51
Computer is set on default to double-sided printing 25.45 26.00 25.80
Photocopier is set on default to double-sided photocopying 19.32 21.74 20.87
I print every electronic document received via e-mail* 72.00 70.00 71.00
I read all e-mails on screen rather than printing them 75.83 73.23 74.13
I read all e-mail-attached documents received on screen 73.42 71.91 72.44
I send e-mails instead of memos and letters on paper 77.11 80.89 79.58
I use e-cards or e-postcards for communication purposes (ie invitations, promotions, etc) 44.34 53.73 50.66
I store files electronically or on disks instead of placing printed copies in file cabinets 67.73 66.29 66.79
I sort single-sided and double-sided used paper 35.10 36.28 35.87
I attempt to make revisions on screen before printing in hard copy 72.14 75.04 74.02
I use my laptop to view documents or record minutes during meetings instead of using hard
copy 31.82 25.39 27.93
Average: Paper, printing and storage 52.73 53.62 53.38
When leaving the office at day-end I switch off my computer 85.76 88.23 87.36
I switch off my PC monitor if away from my office for more than 30 minutes 27.06 18.27 21.27
I switch off my PC monitor overnight/end of day 77.50 74.16 75.29
I fax directly from my computer to avoid printing 21.63 24.25 23.30
My computer at work is pre-set to a power save mode 58.24 46.07 50.39
I use a screen saver on my computer monitor* 26.30 23.52 24.50
I switch off my printer overnight/end of day 61.43 58.96 59.78
I switch off my photocopier when leaving my office at night/end of day 74.43 64.25 67.80
I switch off my air conditioner when I leave my office during office hours/external meetings 51.79 58.07 55.37
I switch off my air conditioner when leaving my office at day-end/overnight 69.64 64.47 66.68
I have the heater on at all times during the winter* 77.00 76.00 77.00
I have control of my office lighting 74.01 69.08 70.85
I switch off lights when leaving my office in the evening 90.38 88.99 89.51
I switch off lights of unused offices 62.98 61.46 62.05
I switch off lights during external meetings 49.13 45.32 46.83
The kitchen appliances of my business unit are switched off overnight 58.83 57.40 57.93
I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic systems everyday 14.36 14.42 14.40
I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic systems when absent from
office for more than a day 19.71 20.47 20.21
I use my work cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send e-mails/documents 10.57 2.65 5.87
I use my private cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send e-mails/documents 16.93 11.10 13.12
Average: Energy/electricity 51.38 48.37 49.45
cont…

104
TABLE 3.7 (continued)
Items
Male Female Total
Mean Mean Mean
I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for printing 36.72 43.66 41.27
I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for scrap paper 53.42 62.95 59.71
I use plastic/polystyrene drinking cups* 80.00 84.00 83.00
The office uses disposable cups/utensils for office functions* 77.00 83.00 81.00
I use my own drinking mug for coffee/tea 86.01 90.23 88.79
I re-use packaging boxes 52.26 62.72 59.12
I re-use old files/folders 64.38 71.62 69.11
I re-use the internal Unisa envelopes 74.97 84.07 80.87
I re-use plastic window envelopes 44.20 56.23 51.91
I use colour printing only when necessary 70.08 69.98 70.02
I use PowerPoint instead of paper presentations during meetings/presentations 70.17 71.59 71.02
I use cover sheets when faxing documents* 54.00 45.00 48.00
I use refillable pencils/pens 43.10 43.40 43.30
I separate office waste paper from other waste material 29.44 28.26 28.67
I use the e-waste facility at Unisa 16.22 16.73 16.55
I send used printer cartridges for refill/re-use 49.96 66.31 60.58
I dispose of my litter anywhere if a waste bin is not available* 92.00 94.00 6.73
I dispose of my unwanted ‘junk-mail’ in a waste bin instead of recycling* 53.00 57.00 93.00
Average: Waste 58.16 62.82 56.00
I use Unisa’s recycle bin 25.63 22.12 23.38
I use my own desk-side recycle bin 45.62 39.90 41.98
I use the centrally located recycle bin in my business unit 23.60 19.10 20.79
I recycle single-sided paper 40.31 47.42 44.92
I recycle double-sided paper 29.94 35.82 33.67
I recycle unused CDs 12.29 23.34 19.15
I recycle printer/toner cartridges 42.66 55.78 50.98
I recycle empty aluminum cans 17.10 22.33 20.39
I recycle empty plastic/glass bottles 28.37 32.28 30.88
I discard my cigarette butt in a waste bin 44.74 34.63 38.80
I recycle shredded documents 25.94 22.90 23.96
I shred CDs using own/office equipment 9.25 6.35 7.44
I shred CDs using Unisa's e-waste facility 8.49 7.13 7.65
Average: Recycling 27.22 28.39 28.00
When making tea/coffee I only heat as much water as needed/required 65.98 67.41 66.91
I use my own flask at work for drinking water 36.64 54.70 48.84
When using water taps at work, I use water sparingly 88.70 88.88 88.82
When using water taps at work, I ensure that the tap is properly closed after use 97.26 98.01 97.75
I instinctively drink tap water at work without considering the potential of contamination* 51.00 51.00 51.00
Average: Water 67.92 72.00 70.66
cont…

105
TABLE 3.7 (continued)
Items
Male Female Total
Mean Mean Mean
I consume organic or eco-friendly food at work 42.26 39.45 40.41
I consume organic or eco-friendly beverages at work 38.77 37.32 37.81
Average: Food 40.52 38.38 39.11
I participate in carpool clubs to ensure that travel to work is as low carbon as possible 16.25 16.94 16.69
I travel by bus to ensure that travel to work is as low carbon as possible 19.40 17.87 18.43
I set up video conferencing rather than travel to ensure as low carbon as possible 25.61 26.27 25.97
I set up phone meetings rather than travel to ensure as low carbon as possible 34.93 34.40 34.64
I use the Unisa bus shuttle service to ensure as low carbon as possible 25.78 29.88 28.32
When using a Unisa vehicle, it is clean 52.99 46.45 49.38
Average: Travelling 29.16 28.64 28.91
Total Average 46.71 47.45 47.23
*Reverse items
TABLE 3.8
GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RATINGS BY QUALIFICATION
Items
Diploma/
Certificate
B-Degree/
Honours
Postgraduate
(M&D)
Total
Mean Mean Mean Mean
Use recycled paper 37.00 41.00 45.00 42.00
Computer is set on default to double-sided printing 29.00 26.00 28.00 28.00
Photocopier is set on default to double-sided photocopying 24.00 21.00 20.00 21.00
I print every electronic document received via e-mail* 31.00 28.00 27.00 28.00
I read all e-mails on screen rather than printing them 71.00 74.00 77.00 74.00
I read all e-mail-attached documents received on screen 73.00 74.00 71.00 72.00
I send e-mails instead of memos and letters on paper 76.00 82.00 81.00 80.00
I use e-cards or e-postcards for communication purposes (ie
invitations, promotions, etc) 48.00 56.00 51.00 52.00
I store files electronically or on disks instead of placing printed
copies in file cabinets 62.00 69.00 69.00 67.00
I sort single-sided and double-sided used paper 32.00 38.00 39.00 37.00
I attempt to make revisions on screen before printing in hard copy 71.00 72.00 78.00 75.00
I use my laptop to view documents or record minutes during
meetings instead of using hard copy 28.00 26.00 29.00 28.00
Average: Paper, printing and storage 48.50 50.58 51.25 50.33
cont…

106
TABLE 3.8 (continued)
Items
Diploma/
Certificate
B-Degree/
Honours
Postgraduate
(M&D)
Total
Mean Mean Mean Mean
When leaving the office at day-end I switch off my computer 92.00 83.00 88.00 87.00
I switch off my PC monitor if away from my office for more than 30
minutes 28.00 20.00 20.00 22.00
I switch off my PC monitor overnight/end of day 77.00 73.00 76.00 75.00
I fax directly from my computer to avoid printing 29.00 27.00 19.00 24.00
My computer at work is pre-set to a power save mode 47.00 43.00 57.00 50.00
I use a screen saver on my computer monitor* 28.94 20.96 24.46 24.32
I switch off my printer overnight/end of day 62.00 57.00 62.00 61.00
I switch off my photocopier when leaving my office at night/end of day 73.00 63.00 79.00 70.00
I switch off my air conditioner when I leave my office during office
hours/external meetings 51.00 57.00 62.00 57.00
I switch off my air conditioner when leaving my office at day-end/
overnight 60.00 72.00 78.00 70.00
I have the heater on at all times during the winter* 26.00 24.00 23.00 24.00
I have control of my office lighting 62.00 59.00 83.00 71.00
I switch off lights when leaving my office in the evening 82.00 84.00 96.00 90.00
I switch off lights of unused offices 62.00 58.00 64.00 62.00
I switch off lights during external meetings 41.00 42.00 55.00 48.00
The kitchen appliances of my business unit are switched off overnight 57.00 55.00 62.00 58.00
I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic
systems everyday 16.00 14.00 15.00 15.00
I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic
systems when absent from office for more than a day 19.00 20.00 23.00 21.00
I use my work cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send e-
mails/documents 4.00 4.00 8.00 6.00
I use my private cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send
e-mails/documents 16.00 11.00 15.00 14.00
Average: Energy/electricity 49.01 46.94 53.17 50.05
I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for printing 36.00 43.00 44.00 42.00
I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for scrap paper 53.00 63.00 62.00 60.00
I use plastic/polystyrene drinking cups* 13.00 17.00 19.00 17.00
The office uses disposable cups/utensils for office functions* 16.00 18.00 22.00 19.00
I use my own drinking mug for coffee/tea 87.00 89.00 87.00 88.00
I re-use packaging boxes 59.00 59.00 61.00 60.00
I re-use old files/folders 67.00 68.00 72.00 70.00
I re-use the internal Unisa envelopes 80.00 78.00 82.00 80.00
I re-use plastic window envelopes 52.00 50.00 53.00 52.00
I use colour printing only when necessary 65.00 69.00 78.00 72.00
I use PowerPoint instead of paper presentations during
meetings/presentations 61.00 75.00 74.00 72.00
I use cover sheets when faxing documents* 53.00 50.00 53.00 52.00
cont…

107
TABLE 3.8 (continued)
Items
Diploma/
Certificate
B-Degree/
Honours
Postgraduate
(M&D)
Total
Mean Mean Mean Mean
I use refillable pencils/pens 39.00 43.00 47.00 44.00
I separate office waste paper from other waste material 24.00 30.00 31.00 29.00
I use the e-waste facility at Unisa 15.00 17.00 19.00 17.00
I send used printer cartridges for refill/re-use 62.00 67.00 52.00 59.00
I dispose of my litter anywhere if a waste bin is not available* 7.00 8.00 5.00 7.00
I dispose of my unwanted ‘junk-mail’ in a waste bin instead of recycling* 41.00 46.00 41.00 43.00
Average: Waste 46.11 49.44 50.11 49.06
I use Unisa’s recycle bin 29.00 20.00 23.00 23.00
I use my own desk-side recycle bin 47.00 35.00 42.00 41.00
I use the centrally located recycle bin in my business unit 28.00 22.00 14.00 20.00
I recycle single-sided paper 33.00 46.00 51.00 46.00
I recycle double-sided paper 25.00 37.00 37.00 34.00
I recycle unused CDs 19.00 17.00 21.00 19.00
I recycle printer/toner cartridges 48.00 51.00 50.00 50.00
I recycle empty aluminum cans 15.00 21.00 23.00 21.00
I recycle empty plastic/glass bottles 24.00 31.00 35.00 31.00
I discard my cigarette butt in a waste bin 22.00 34.00 54.00 35.00
I recycle shredded documents 16.00 25.00 29.00 25.00
I shred CDs using own/office equipment 11.00 3.00 7.00 7.00
I shred CDs using Unisa's e-waste facility 2.00 6.00 10.00 7.00
Average: Recycling 24.54 26.77 30.46 27.62
When making tea/coffee I only heat as much water as needed/required 66.00 66.00 66.00 66.00
I use my own flask at work for drinking water 55.00 50.00 43.00 48.00
When using water taps at work, I use water sparingly 86.00 88.00 90.00 88.00
When using water taps at work, I ensure that the tap is properly closed
after use 98.00 97.00 98.00 98.00
I instinctively drink tap water at work without considering the potential
of contamination* 43.00 49.00 51.00 48.00
Average: Water 69.60 70.00 69.60 69.60
I consume organic or eco-friendly food at work 44.00 40.00 40.00 41.00
I consume organic or eco-friendly beverages at work 44.00 38.00 37.00 39.00
Average: Food 44.00 39.00 38.50 40.00
cont…

108
TABLE 3.8 (continued)
Diploma/
Certificate
B-Degree/
Honours
Postgraduate
(M&D)
Items
Total
Mean Mean Mean Mean
I participate in carpool clubs to ensure that travel to work is as low
carbon as possible 21.00 19.00 14.00 17.00
I travel by bus to ensure that travel to work is as low carbon as
possible 32.00 19.00 8.00 16.00
I set up video conferencing rather than travel to ensure as low carbon
as possible 24.00 22.00 29.00 27.00
I set up phone meetings rather than travel to ensure as low carbon as
possible 32.00 32.00 37.00 35.00
I use the Unisa bus shuttle service to ensure as low carbon as possible 34.00 35.00 18.00 27.00
When using a Unisa vehicle, it is clean 47.00 53.00 46.00 49.00
Average: Travelling 31.67 30.00 25.33 28.50
Total Average 47.54 42.04 47.72 47.40
*Reverse items
TABLE 3.9
GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RATINGS BY TENURE
Items
Less van 5
years
More than
5 years
Total
Mean Mean Mean
Use recycled paper 39.29 42.17 41.51
Computer is set on default to double-sided printing 26.63 25.69 25.90
Photocopier is set on default to double-sided photocopying 20.22 20.65 20.54
I print every electronic document received via e-mail* 26.16 30.02 29.12
I read all e-mails on screen rather than printing them 79.01 72.38 73.93
I read all e-mail-attached documents received on screen 77.90 70.59 72.30
I send e-mails instead of memos and letters on paper 77.66 80.15 79.57
I use e-cards or e-postcards for communication purposes (ie invitations, promotions,
etc) 50.83 50.59 50.65
I store files electronically or on disks instead of placing printed copies in file cabinets 69.64 65.59 66.53
I sort single-sided and double-sided used paper 39.02 34.63 35.66
I attempt to make revisions on screen before printing in hard copy 75.96 73.49 74.07
I use my laptop to view documents or record minutes during meetings instead of
using hard copy 28.28 28.18 28.20
Average: Paper, printing and storage 50.88 49.51 49.83
cont…

109
TABLE 3.9 (continued)
Items
Less van 5
years
More than
5 years
Total
Mean Mean Mean
When leaving the office at day-end I switch off my computer 87.66 87.06 87.20
I switch off my PC monitor if away from my office for more than 30 minutes 25.57 20.00 21.35
I switch off my PC monitor overnight/end of day 74.96 74.78 74.82
I fax directly from my computer to avoid printing 19.87 24.40 23.45
My computer at work is pre-set to a power save mode 49.87 50.64 50.46
I use a screen saver on my computer monitor* 31.16 22.67 24.64
I switch off my printer overnight/end of day 62.89 58.53 59.49
I switch off my photocopier when leaving my office at night/end of day 62.92 68.82 67.61
I switch off my air conditioner when I leave my office during office hours/external
meetings 64.14 51.88 55.37
I switch off my air conditioner when leaving my office at day-end/overnight 77.78 63.53 67.44
I have the heater on at all times during the winter* 27.24 22.52 23.65
I have control of my office lighting 70.05 71.62 71.25
I switch off lights when leaving my office in the evening 92.18 88.45 89.27
I switch off lights of unused offices 59.67 62.61 61.97
I switch off lights during external meetings 48.00 46.45 46.81
The kitchen appliances of my business unit are switched off overnight 59.93 57.70 58.21
I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic systems everyday 14.68 14.40 14.47
I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic systems when absent
from office for more than a day 18.26 20.76 20.20
I use my work cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send e-mails/documents 5.22 5.96 5.77
I use my private cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send e-mails/documents 16.78 12.33 13.37
Average: Energy/electricity 50.72 49.00 49.47
I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for printing 41.13 41.01 41.04
I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for scrap paper 57.95 59.80 59.37
I use plastic/polystyrene drinking cups* 19.86 16.32 17.12
The office uses disposable cups/utensils for office functions* 24.42 17.32 19.00
I use my own drinking mug for coffee/tea 85.67 89.74 88.81
I re-use packaging boxes 60.59 58.84 59.24
I re-use old files/folders 69.16 69.25 69.23
I re-use the internal Unisa envelopes 71.14 83.26 80.62
I re-use plastic window envelopes 47.80 53.36 52.12
I use colour printing only when necessary 65.99 71.66 70.23
I use PowerPoint instead of paper presentations during meetings/presentations 72.88 70.52 71.16
I use cover sheets when faxing documents* 50.08 53.20 52.43
I use refillable pencils/pens 43.46 43.00 43.10
I separate office waste paper from other waste material 26.45 28.76 28.22
cont…

110
TABLE 3.9 (continued)
Items
Less van 5
years
More than
5 years
Total
Mean Mean Mean
I use the e-waste facility at Unisa 15.83 16.56 16.40
I send used printer cartridges for refill/re-use 50.25 63.31 60.59
I dispose of my litter anywhere if a waste bin is not available* 5.63 7.14 6.78
I dispose of my unwanted ‘junk-mail’ in a waste bin instead of recycling* 41.47 44.97 44.18
Average: Waste 47.21 49.33 48.87
I use Unisa’s recycle bin 21.77 23.80 23.35
I use my own desk-side recycle bin 42.18 41.00 41.28
I use the centrally located recycle bin in my business unit 20.82 19.84 20.10
I recycle single-sided paper 43.13 45.00 44.57
I recycle double-sided paper 32.55 33.63 33.37
I recycle unused CDs 16.28 20.27 19.30
I recycle printer/toner cartridges 43.90 53.08 51.09
I recycle empty aluminum cans 19.74 20.82 20.57
I recycle empty plastic/glass bottles 27.37 31.63 30.67
I discard my cigarette butt in a waste bin 33.13 39.40 37.75
I recycle shredded documents 21.30 25.71 24.76
I shred CDs using own/office equipment 4.27 8.47 7.44
I shred CDs using Unisa's e-waste facility 3.06 9.21 7.68
Average: Recycling 25.35 28.60 27.84
When making tea/coffee I only heat as much water as needed/required 70.19 65.83 66.81
I use my own flask at work for drinking water 41.46 50.74 48.72
When using water taps at work, I use water sparingly 86.08 89.57 88.77
When using water taps at work, I ensure that the tap is properly closed after use 98.86 97.51 97.82
I instinctively drink tap water at work without considering the potential of
contamination* 47.77 49.92 49.45
Average: Water 68.87 70.71 70.31
I consume organic or eco-friendly food at work 40.86 40.45 40.55
I consume organic or eco-friendly beverages at work 38.99 37.80 38.09
Average: Food 39.93 39.13 39.32
I participate in carpool clubs to ensure that travel to work is as low carbon as possible 17.18 16.93 16.99
I travel by bus to ensure that travel to work is as low carbon as possible 21.07 16.77 17.87
I set up video conferencing rather than travel to ensure as low carbon as possible 23.24 27.28 26.23
I set up phone meetings rather than travel to ensure as low carbon as possible 39.30 32.91 34.55
I use the Unisa bus shuttle service to ensure as low carbon as possible 31.35 26.98 28.17
When using a Unisa vehicle, it is clean 58.72 47.26 49.54
Average: Travelling 31.81 28.02 28.89
Total Average 47.38 42.15 47.22
* Reverse items

111
TABLE 3.10
GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RATINGS BY AGE
Items
21-34 35-44 45-54 55+ Total
Mean Mean Mean Mean Mean
Use recycled paper 42.04 40.83 39.80 44.18 41.34
Computer is set on default to double-sided printing 33.50 27.56 26.02 19.31 26.04
Photocopier is set on default to double-sided photocopying 27.02 21.50 19.81 15.82 20.64
I print every electronic document received via e-mail* 19.44 30.65 27.88 34.74 28.87
I read all e-mails on screen rather than printing them 79.38 74.71 73.72 68.70 73.79
I read all e-mail-attached documents received on screen 77.16 73.92 71.42 67.80 72.22
I send e-mails instead of memos and letters on paper 74.06 80.62 79.37 82.16 79.54
I use e-cards or e-postcards for communication purposes (ie
invitations, promotions, etc) 57.42 52.13 49.50 44.06 50.33
I store files electronically or on disks instead of placing printed copies
in file cabinets 68.99 69.42 65.74 63.01 66.71
I sort single-sided and double-sided used paper 42.31 34.51 34.88 33.46 35.58
I attempt to make revisions on screen before printing in hard copy 72.81 71.68 74.95 76.44 73.99
I use my laptop to view documents or record minutes during meetings
instead of using hard copy 26.76 32.77 27.32 24.61 28.34
Average: Paper, printing and storage 51.74 50.86 49.20 47.86 49.78
When leaving the office at day-end I switch off my computer 84.94 88.25 86.22 89.87 87.41
I switch off my PC monitor if away from my office for more than 30
minutes 25.19 24.38 19.63 17.29 21.33
I switch off my PC monitor overnight/end of day 69.69 76.47 76.98 73.68 74.98
I fax directly from my computer to avoid printing 29.18 24.96 24.46 17.69 23.82
My computer at work is pre-set to a power save mode 50.76 50.83 48.23 51.92 50.13
I use a screen saver on my computer monitor* 32.63 26.94 18.71 25.31 24.55
I switch off my printer overnight/end of day 51.83 60.24 60.24 62.68 59.64
I switch off my photocopier when leaving my office at night/end of day 48.65 68.87 69.81 78.38 68.00
I switch off my air conditioner when I leave my office during office
hours/external meetings 60.48 65.00 53.98 35.00 55.73
I switch off my air conditioner when leaving my office at dayend/overnight
71.14 71.46 68.83 55.22 67.67
I have the heater on at all times during the winter* 22.93 22.70 23.91 25.20 23.71
I have control of my office lighting 63.69 68.84 74.24 74.57 71.34
I switch off lights when leaving my office in the evening 82.68 89.28 88.69 94.31 89.39
I switch off lights of unused offices 59.53 52.82 62.62 73.76 62.12
I switch off lights during external meetings 45.53 42.73 44.49 56.71 46.83
The kitchen appliances of my business unit are switched off overnight 59.62 52.42 55.48 68.86 57.92
cont…

112
Items
TABLE 3.10 (continued)
21-34 35-44 45-54 55+ Total
Mean Mean Mean Mean Mean
I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic systems
everyday 11.54 14.63 14.92 16.40 14.71
I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic systems
when absent from office for more than a day 14.32 20.74 22.05 20.84 20.40
I use my work cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send e-
mails/documents 2.69 7.50 7.46 1.97 5.74
I use my private cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send e-
mails/documents 23.37 14.28 12.86 6.18 13.37
Average: Energy/electricity 48.23 49.90 49.30 49.71 49.57
I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for printing 43.85 43.08 41.61 37.18 41.42
I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for scrap paper 59.74 58.11 59.17 60.79 59.31
I use plastic/polystyrene drinking cups* 16.53 19.54 15.14 18.35 17.29
The office uses disposable cups/utensils for office functions* 21.67 19.61 17.36 18.61 18.91
I use my own drinking mug for coffee/tea 88.18 87.56 87.37 92.59 88.66
I re-use packaging boxes 68.99 54.61 57.46 61.31 59.10
I re-use old files/folders 72.70 68.50 68.43 68.80 69.14
I re-use the internal Unisa envelopes 75.57 77.71 80.98 86.85 80.58
I re-use plastic window envelopes 56.53 47.98 50.78 56.18 51.94
I use colour printing only when necessary 64.64 67.14 74.11 73.39 70.46
I use PowerPoint instead of paper presentations during
meetings/presentations 74.74 69.67 73.41 66.14 71.22
I use cover sheets when faxing documents* 51.12 52.67 51.68 54.34 52.41
I use refillable pencils/pens 44.80 44.03 44.17 39.18 43.19
I separate office waste paper from other waste material 28.11 29.44 29.14 25.93 28.41
I use the e-waste facility at Unisa 20.90 13.26 15.68 18.89 16.44
I send used printer cartridges for refill/re-use 60.78 61.39 56.56 65.12 60.25
I dispose of my litter anywhere if a waste bin is not available* 4.68 6.77 7.17 7.24 6.69
I dispose of my unwanted ‘junk-mail’ in a waste bin instead of
recycling* 41.18 46.63 40.22 49.80 44.20
Average: Waste 49.70 48.21 48.36 50.04 48.87
I use Unisa’s recycle bin 28.85 20.04 25.84 20.89 23.56
I use my own desk-side recycle bin 50.48 39.96 43.55 34.03 41.70
I use the centrally located recycle bin in my business unit 26.67 18.74 19.29 20.97 20.62
I recycle single-sided paper 40.61 41.21 47.26 46.60 44.41
I recycle double-sided paper 34.00 29.08 37.31 32.73 33.45
I recycle unused CDs 18.16 19.22 20.63 17.09 19.19
I recycle printer/toner cartridges 44.81 51.85 53.11 50.45 51.08
I recycle empty aluminum cans 18.95 19.65 19.70 23.55 20.35
I recycle empty plastic/glass bottles 27.98 28.09 33.04 32.42 30.74
cont…

113
TABLE 3.10 (continued)
Items
21-34 35-44 45-54 55+ Total
Mean Mean Mean Mean Mean
I discard my cigarette butt in a waste bin 31.73 37.07 44.09 43.24 38.35
I recycle shredded documents 20.81 25.44 27.92 19.57 24.45
I shred CDs using own/office equipment 2.12 8.30 7.73 10.15 7.36
I shred CDs using Unisa's e-waste facility 1.81 4.76 10.90 10.38 7.58
Average: Recycling 26.69 26.42 30.03 27.85 27.91
When making tea/coffee I only heat as much water as needed/required 70.23 63.62 66.99 67.22 66.44
I use my own flask at work for drinking water 47.77 47.44 46.40 55.79 48.89
When using water taps at work, I use water sparingly 84.34 85.35 90.58 93.11 88.69
When using water taps at work, I ensure that the tap is properly closed
after use 99.56 97.15 97.12 98.19 97.71
I instinctively drink tap water at work without considering the potential
of contamination* 56.55 42.85 50.92 51.10 49.40
Average: Water 71.69 67.28 70.40 73.08 70.23
I consume organic or eco-friendly food at work 40.40 39.04 40.38 44.34 40.86
I consume organic or eco-friendly beverages at work 38.73 37.55 35.96 42.55 38.30
Average: Food 39.57 38.29 38.17 43.44 39.58
I participate in carpool clubs to ensure that travel to work is as low
carbon as possible 19.51 17.34 15.03 17.19 16.84
I travel by bus to ensure that travel to work is as low carbon as possible 25.15 22.54 14.54 15.72 18.82
I set up video conferencing rather than travel to ensure as low carbon
as possible 19.76 29.81 26.97 25.26 26.35
I set up phone meetings rather than travel to ensure as low carbon as
possible 34.79 38.18 34.65 30.00 34.65
I use the Unisa bus shuttle service to ensure as low carbon as possible 32.32 34.22 26.11 21.77 28.68
When using a Unisa vehicle, it is clean 49.44 49.23 47.21 49.59 48.62
Average: Travelling 30.16 31.89 27.42 26.59 28.99
Total Average 47.57 47.22 47.05 47.43 47.28
*Reverse items

114
TABLE 3.11
GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RATINGS BY DESIGNATED GROUP
Items
Designated
Nondesignated
Total
Mean Mean Mean
Use recycled paper 40.93 41.58 41.38
Computer is set on default to double-sided printing 26.30 25.67 25.86
Photocopier is set on default to double-sided photocopying 27.98 17.42 20.99
I print every electronic document received via e-mail* 29.85 28.29 28.79
I read all e-mails on screen rather than printing them 73.70 73.49 73.56
I read all e-mail-attached documents received on screen 73.61 71.26 72.03
I send e-mails instead of memos and letters on paper 74.94 82.12 79.79
I use e-cards or e-postcards for communication purposes (ie, invitations, promotions,
etc) 44.61 53.36 50.60
I store files electronically or on disks instead of placing printed copies in file cabinets 66.97 66.20 66.45
I sort single-sided and double-sided used paper 36.31 35.48 35.74
I attempt to make revisions on screen before printing in hard copy 68.76 77.24 74.48
I use my laptop to view documents or record minutes during meetings instead of using
hard copy 35.24 26.10 28.72
Average: Paper, printing and storage 49.93 49.85 49.87
When leaving the office at day-end I switch off my computer 91.59 85.88 87.72
I switch off my PC monitor if away from my office for more than 30 minutes 30.52 16.20 21.03
I switch off my PC monitor overnight/end of day 81.10 71.97 75.05
I fax directly from my computer to avoid printing 23.69 24.26 24.09
My computer at work is pre-set to a power save mode 56.04 47.71 50.32
I use a screen saver on my computer monitor* 26.29 23.93 24.69
I switch off my printer overnight/end of day 61.54 58.75 59.64
I switch off my photocopier when leaving my office at night/end of day 67.68 67.32 67.47
I switch off my air conditioner when I leave my office during office hours/external
meetings 61.82 48.64 54.63
I switch off my air conditioner when leaving my office at day-end/overnight 67.77 65.82 66.67
I have the heater on at all times during the winter* 33.14 19.47 23.91
I have control of my office lighting 66.88 71.77 70.27
I switch off lights when leaving my office in the evening 85.35 91.10 89.26
I switch off lights of unused offices 59.68 63.54 62.43
I switch off lights during external meetings 50.27 44.51 46.36
The kitchen appliances of my business unit are switched off overnight 65.00 55.18 58.63
I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic systems everyday 19.35 12.53 14.63
I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic systems when absent
from office for more than a day 23.33 19.05 20.37
I use my work cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send e-mails/documents 7.46 4.48 5.55
I use my private cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send e-mails/documents 16.04 11.80 13.14
Average: Energy/electricity 51.41 48.25 49.40
cont…

115
TABLE 3.11 (continued)
Items
Designated
Nondesignated
Total
Mean Mean Mean
I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for printing 40.74 41.62 41.34
I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for scrap paper 54.56 62.07 59.67
I use plastic/polystyrene drinking cups* 15.92 17.53 17.03
The office uses disposable cups/utensils for office functions* 19.50 18.05 18.54
I use my own drinking mug for coffee/tea 90.28 88.64 89.17
I re-use packaging boxes 56.47 60.86 59.48
I re-use old files/folders 65.99 71.67 69.87
I re-use the internal Unisa envelopes 73.46 84.49 81.09
I re-use plastic window envelopes 49.13 54.89 53.05
I use colour printing only when necessary 53.97 80.15 70.69
I use PowerPoint instead of paper presentations during meetings/presentations 65.42 75.00 71.74
I use cover sheets when faxing documents* 51.17 52.83 52.28
I use refillable pencils/pens 43.36 42.91 43.04
I separate office waste paper from other waste material 30.10 28.23 28.83
I use the e-waste facility at Unisa 19.80 15.50 16.80
I send used printer cartridges for refill/re-use 53.93 64.62 61.13
I dispose of my litter anywhere if a waste bin is not available* 6.94 6.50 6.64
I dispose of my unwanted ‘junk-mail’ in a waste bin instead of recycling* 44.93 43.99 44.29
Average: Waste 46.43 50.53 49.15
I use Unisa’s recycle bin 34.84 19.64 24.41
I use my own desk-side recycle bin 53.64 36.29 42.10
I use the centrally located recycle bin in my business unit 28.74 16.58 20.85
I recycle single-sided paper 35.26 48.49 44.38
I recycle double-sided paper 28.93 35.64 33.60
I recycle unused CDs 16.68 19.98 18.96
I recycle printer/toner cartridges 44.35 54.64 51.37
I recycle empty aluminum cans 15.64 22.51 20.36
I recycle empty plastic/glass bottles 23.31 34.52 31.16
I discard my cigarette butt in a waste bin 21.63 50.10 37.44
I recycle shredded documents 16.48 27.32 23.82
I shred CDs using own/office equipment 5.57 7.28 6.72
I shred CDs using Unisa's e-waste facility 4.09 8.49 7.09
Average: Recycling 25.32 29.34 27.87
When making tea/coffee I only heat as much water as needed/required 69.78 66.10 67.32
I use my own flask at work for drinking water 43.09 51.23 48.71
When using water taps at work, I use water sparingly 84.48 91.05 88.92
When using water taps at work, I ensure that the tap is properly closed after use 97.69 97.54 97.59
I instinctively drink tap water at work without considering the potential of
contamination* 49.25 50.23 49.91
Average: Water 68.86 71.23 70.49
cont…

116
TABLE 3.11 (continued)
Items
Designated
Nondesignated
Total
Mean Mean Mean
I consume organic or eco-friendly food at work 47.58 37.92 41.01
I consume organic or eco-friendly beverages at work 44.59 35.63 38.45
Average: Food 46.09 36.78 39.73
I participate in carpool clubs to ensure that travel to work is as low carbon as
possible 22.13 13.92 16.38
I travel by bus to ensure that travel to work is as low carbon as possible 35.92 9.38 18.27
I set up video conferencing rather than travel to ensure as low carbon as possible 22.64 28.07 26.26
I set up phone meetings rather than travel to ensure as low carbon as possible 33.55 36.31 35.37
I use the Unisa bus shuttle service to ensure as low carbon as possible 43.29 20.82 28.88
When using a Unisa vehicle, it is clean 54.37 46.88 49.97
Average: Travelling 35.32 25.90 29.19
Total Average 48.49 46.02 47.37
*Reverse items
TABLE 3.12
GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RATINGS BY OFFICE OWNERSHIP
Items
I have my own
office space
I share
an office
Use recycled paper 43.05 37.67 41.45
Computer is set on default to double-sided printing 25.35 27.87 26.12
Photocopier is set on default to double-sided photocopying 20.75 21.49 20.99
I print every electronic document received via e-mail* 71.06 70.34 70.85
I read all e-mails on screen rather than printing them 75.61 69.51 73.82
I read all e-mail-attached documents received on screen 72.90 70.98 72.34
I send e-mails instead of memos and letters on paper 79.59 78.73 79.34
I use e-cards or e-postcards for communication purposes (ie invitations,
promotions, etc) 51.81 47.93 50.71
I store files electronically or on disks instead of placing printed copies in file
cabinets 67.97 62.55 66.40
I sort single-sided and double-sided used paper 37.75 31.32 35.82
I attempt to make revisions on screen before printing in hard copy 77.94 64.17 74.00
I use my laptop to view documents or record minutes during meetings instead
of using hard copy 31.27 18.13 28.20
Average: Paper, printing and storage 54.59 50.06 53.34
cont…
Total

117
TABLE 3.12 (continued)
Items
I have my
own office
space
I share
an office
When leaving the office at day-end I switch off my computer 88.11 85.73 87.43
I switch off my PC monitor if away from my office for more than 30 minutes 21.17 21.71 21.33
I switch off my PC monitor overnight/end of day 76.23 71.92 74.91
I fax directly from my computer to avoid printing 20.00 31.65 23.60
My computer at work is pre-set to a power save mode 53.30 43.67 50.48
I use a screen saver on my computer monitor* 24.35 25.72 24.76
I switch off my printer overnight/end of day 61.91 55.55 60.01
I switch off my photocopier when leaving my office at night/end of day 74.48 57.70 67.58
I switch off my air conditioner when I leave my office during office hours/external
meetings 68.72 27.74 55.27
I switch off my air conditioner when leaving my office at day-end/overnight 82.15 37.73 67.88
I have the heater on at all times during the winter* 74.04 83.22 76.37
I have control of my office lighting 80.26 40.34 70.55
I switch off lights when leaving my office in the evening 93.97 72.07 88.83
I switch off lights of unused offices 65.93 48.63 61.56
I switch off lights during external meetings 51.73 27.59 46.49
The kitchen appliances of my business unit are switched off overnight 64.06 43.23 57.79
I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic systems everyday 16.29 11.91 15.09
I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic systems when
absent from office for more than a day 22.63 15.21 20.60
I use my work cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send e-
mails/documents 7.23 2.33 5.64
I use my private cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send e-
mails/documents 14.17 10.37 13.13
Average: Energy/electricity 53.04 40.70 49.47
Total
I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for printing 41.59 40.81 41.36
I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for scrap paper 60.85 56.33 59.55
I use plastic/polystyrene drinking cups* 82.10 83.41 82.48
The office uses disposable cups/utensils for office functions* 80.35 81.88 80.75
I use my own drinking mug for coffee/tea 88.58 88.54 88.57
I re-use packaging boxes 59.83 58.05 59.32
I re-use old files/folders 70.31 65.20 68.84
I re-use the internal Unisa envelopes 81.53 79.16 80.85
I re-use plastic window envelopes 53.23 49.53 52.22
I use colour printing only when necessary 75.86 54.02 70.12
I use PowerPoint instead of paper presentations during meetings/presentations 72.26 66.26 70.87
I use cover sheets when faxing documents* 47.23 49.29 47.77
I use refillable pencils/pens 46.48 34.46 43.23
I separate office waste paper from other waste material 27.88 30.11 28.50
I use the e-waste facility at Unisa 16.06 18.09 16.66
I send used printer cartridges for refill/re-use 57.95 66.30 60.41
I dispose of my litter anywhere if a waste bin is not available* 94.60 90.65 93.43
I dispose of my unwanted ‘junk-mail’ in a waste bin instead of recycling* 56.32 54.86 55.89
Average: Waste 61.83 59.27 61.16
cont…

118
Items
TABLE 3.12 (continued)
I have my own
office space
I share
an office
I use Unisa’s recycle bin 22.68 26.17 23.71
I use my own desk-side recycle bin 41.19 43.54 41.91
I use the centrally located recycle bin in my business unit 16.22 29.02 20.80
I recycle single-sided paper 47.25 37.36 44.59
I recycle double-sided paper 33.38 34.49 33.68
I recycle unused CDs 20.32 16.62 19.35
I recycle printer/toner cartridges 49.62 53.98 50.84
I recycle empty aluminum cans 20.43 20.33 20.41
I recycle empty plastic/glass bottles 31.32 29.43 30.80
I discard my cigarette butt in a waste bin 37.55 37.31 37.42
I recycle shredded documents 26.23 20.39 24.35
I shred CDs using own/office equipment 6.88 7.87 7.21
I shred CDs using Unisa's e-waste facility 7.31 7.75 7.44
Average: Recycling 27.72 28.02 27.89
Total
When making tea/coffee I only heat as much water as needed/required 67.76 64.76 66.90
I use my own flask at work for drinking water 49.01 47.83 48.65
When using water taps at work, I use water sparingly 90.22 85.22 88.75
When using water taps at work, I ensure that the tap is properly closed after use 97.79 97.47 97.70
I instinctively drink tap water at work without considering the potential of
contamination* 51.42 48.22 50.50
Average: Water 71.24 68.70 70.50
I consume organic or eco-friendly food at work 41.84 39.93 41.29
I consume organic or eco-friendly beverages at work 39.32 37.06 38.66
Average: Food 40.58 38.50 39.98
I participate in carpool clubs to ensure that travel to work is as low carbon as
possible 16.00 19.58 17.02
I travel by bus to ensure that travel to work is as low carbon as possible 14.14 30.36 18.99
I set up video conferencing rather than travel to ensure as low carbon as
possible 29.18 15.17 26.26
I set up phone meetings rather than travel to ensure as low carbon as possible 37.15 25.07 34.54
I use the Unisa bus shuttle service to ensure as low carbon as possible 27.58 31.71 28.77
When using a Unisa vehicle, it is clean 50.31 47.46 49.46
Average: Travelling 29.06 28.23 29.17
Total average 48.29 44.78 47.36
*Reverse items

119
TABLE 3.13
GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RATINGS BY ENVIRONMENTAL INTEREST
Extremely
Item Not interested Interested
Total
interested
Use recycled paper 24.17 39.48 51.35 41.45
Computer is set on default to double-sided printing 16.50 23.39 37.50 26.12
Photocopier is set on default to double-sided photocopying 13.75 21.54 20.86 20.99
I print every electronic document received via e-mail* 67.31 69.75 75.20 70.85
I read all e-mails on screen rather than printing them 63.65 73.74 76.21 73.82
I read all e-mail-attached documents received on screen 67.50 71.79 75.16 72.34
I send e-mails instead of memos and letters on paper 67.69 78.69 83.87 79.34
I use e-cards or e-postcards for communication purposes (ie
invitations, promotions, etc) 31.59 47.87 65.00 50.71
I store files electronically or on disks instead of placing printed
copies in file cabinets 50.96 66.24 70.20 66.40
I sort single-sided and double-sided used paper 26.67 31.96 50.19 35.82
I attempt to make revisions on screen before printing in hard
copy 52.20 73.15 81.27 74.00
I use my laptop to view documents or record minutes during
meetings instead of using hard copy 24.67 24.57 40.35 28.20
Average: Paper, printing and storage 42.22 51.85 60.60 53.34
When leaving the office at day-end I switch off my computer 76.00 88.15 87.38 87.43
I switch off my PC monitor if away from my office for more
than 30 minutes 13.40 20.61 25.63 21.33
I switch off my PC monitor overnight/end of day 65.40 74.16 79.52 74.91
I fax directly from my computer to avoid printing 14.29 22.68 29.80 23.60
My computer at work is pre-set to a power save mode 43.85 47.89 60.77 50.48
I use a screen saver on my computer monitor* 31.60 23.11 28.81 24.76
I switch off my printer overnight/end of day 33.57 61.06 62.07 60.01
I switch off my photocopier when leaving my office at
night/end of day 62.14 63.96 85.81 67.58
I switch off my air conditioner when I leave my office during
office hours/external meetings 58.33 52.18 63.28 55.27
I switch off my air conditioner when leaving my office at dayend/overnight
66.67 67.37 69.84 67.88
I have the heater on at all times during the winter* 66.32 76.46 78.04 76.37
I have control of my office lighting 62.29 70.87 71.33 70.55
I switch off lights when leaving my office in the evening 86.36 87.53 94.12 88.83
I switch off lights of unused offices 57.22 59.38 70.06 61.56
I switch off lights during external meetings 47.37 42.78 58.21 46.49
The kitchen appliances of my business unit are switched off
overnight 52.14 56.56 62.96 57.79
I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic
systems everyday 16.73 12.76 22.32 15.09
cont…

120
TABLE 3.13 (continued)
Item Not interested Interested
Extremely
interested
Total
I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic
systems when absent from office for more than a day 16.73 18.39 28.58 20.60
I use my work cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send
e-mails/documents 4.38 4.81 8.82 5.64
I use my private cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/
send e-mails/documents 10.79 12.69 15.18 13.13
Average: Energy/electricity 44.28 48.17 55.13 49.47
I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for printing 34.04 38.99 50.72 41.36
I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for scrap paper 39.17 57.68 69.55 59.55
I use plastic/polystyrene drinking cups* 75.60 81.99 85.63 82.48
The office uses disposable cups/utensils for office functions* 91.50 79.50 82.67 80.75
I use my own drinking mug for coffee/tea 95.83 87.28 91.38 88.57
I re-use packaging boxes 51.25 57.44 67.07 59.32
I re-use old files/folders 52.71 67.21 77.39 68.84
I re-use the internal Unisa envelopes 76.74 80.38 83.18 80.85
I re-use plastic window envelopes 35.53 50.06 61.98 52.22
I use colour printing only when necessary 48.06 66.21 86.99 70.12
I use PowerPoint instead of paper presentations during
meetings/presentations 44.17 68.38 83.92 70.87
I use cover sheets when faxing documents* 55.00 46.30 50.87 47.77
I use refillable pencils/pens 37.92 40.65 52.76 43.23
I seperate office waste paper from other waste material 19.80 24.52 43.44 28.50
I use the e-waste facility at Unisa 7.73 14.04 28.49 16.66
I send used printer cartridges for refill/re-use 51.36 58.83 67.26 60.41
I dispose of my litter anywhere if a waste bin is not available* 89.62 93.84 92.97 93.43
I dispose of my unwanted ‘junk-mail’ in a waste bin instead of
recycling* 61.96 53.07 64.35 55.89
Average: Waste 53.78 59.24 68.92 61.16
I use Unisa’s recycle bin 25.00 22.16 28.75 23.71
I use my own desk-side recycle bin 44.09 38.84 50.72 41.91
I use the centrally located recycle bin in my business unit 30.48 18.98 23.88 20.80
I recycle single-sided paper 16.82 42.22 57.45 44.59
I recycle double-sided paper 21.36 28.06 54.11 33.68
I recycle unused CDs 8.10 18.25 25.40 19.35
I recycle printer/toner cartridges 30.24 49.11 60.94 50.84
I recycle empty aluminium cans 5.87 15.50 39.64 20.41
I recycle empty plastic/glass bottles 12.71 26.38 49.55 30.80
I discard my cigarette butt in a waste bin 15.45 38.31 50.00 37.42
I recycle shredded documents 22.50 20.36 37.74 24.35
I shred CDs using own/office equipment 2.50 7.26 8.60 7.21
I shred CDs using Unisa's e-waste facility 2.33 5.69 14.60 7.44
Average: Recycling 18.27 25.47 38.57 27.89
cont…

121
TABLE 3.13 (continued)
Item Not interested Interested
Extremely
interested
Total
When making tea/coffee I only heat as much water as
needed/required 67.50 64.64 73.96 66.90
I use my own flask at work for drinking water 50.87 46.70 54.60 48.65
When using water taps at work, I use water sparingly 77.20 88.57 91.75 88.75
When using water taps at work, I ensure that the tap is properly
closed after use 97.40 97.36 98.86 97.70
I instinctively drink tap water at work without considering the
potential of contamination* 43.96 52.15 46.48 50.50
Average: Water 67.39 69.88 73.13 70.50
I consume organic or eco-friendly food at work 41.67 40.18 44.91 41.29
I consume organic or eco-friendly beverages at work 36.90 37.45 43.18 38.66
Average: Food 39.29 38.81 44.04 39.98
I participate in carpool clubs to ensure that travel to work is as
low carbon as possible 13.75 15.28 23.22 17.02
I travel by bus to ensure that travel to work is as low carbon as
possible 36.59 17.99 18.05 18.99
I set up video conferencing rather than travel to ensure as low
carbon as possible 6.36 23.73 37.27 26.26
I set up phone meetings rather than travel to ensure as low
carbon as possible 22.08 32.35 43.31 34.54
I use the Unisa bus shuttle service to ensure as low carbon as
possible 39.71 26.49 33.95 28.77
When using a Unisa vehicle, it is clean 38.21 49.79 51.67 49.46
Average: Travelling 26.12 27.60 34.58 29.17
Total average 41.62 45.86 53.57 47.36
*Reverse items

122
TABLE 3.14
GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RATINGS
Item n Index
Use recycled paper 506 41.45
Computer is set on default to double-sided printing 446 26.12
Photocopier is set on default to double-sided photocopying 378 20.99
I print every electronic document received via e-mail* 548 70.85
I read all e-mails on screen rather than printing them 555 73.82
I read all e-mail-attached documents received on screen 556 72.34
I send e-mails instead of memos and letters on paper 551 79.34
I use e-cards or e-postcards for communication purposes (ie invitations, promotions, etc) 428 50.71
I store files electronically or on disks instead of placing printed copies in file cabinets 550 66.40
I sort single-sided and double-sided used paper 467 35.82
I attempt to make revisions on screen before printing in hard copy 546 74.00
I use my laptop to view documents or record minutes during meetings instead of using hard copy 309 28.20
Average: Paper, printing and storage 53.34
Item n Mean
When leaving the office at day-end I switch off my computer 548 87.43
I switch off my PC monitor if away from my office for more than 30 minutes 521 21.33
I switch off my PC monitor overnight/end of day 522 74.91
I fax directly from my computer to avoid printing 382 23.60
My computer at work is pre-set to a power save mode 512 50.48
I use a screen saver on my computer monitor* 538 24.76
I switch off my printer overnight/end of day 456 60.01
I switch off my photocopier when leaving my office at night/end of day 180 67.58
I switch off my air conditioner when I leave my office during office hours/external meetings 128 55.27
I switch off my air conditioner when leaving my office at day-end/overnight 137 67.88
I have the heater on at all times during the winter* 452 76.37
I have control of my office lighting 485 70.55
I switch off lights when leaving my office in the evening 443 88.83
I switch off lights of unused offices 360 61.56
I switch off lights during external meetings 373 46.49
The kitchen appliances of my business unit are switched off overnight 319 57.79
I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic systems everyday 513 15.09
I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic systems when absent from office
for more than a day 515 20.60
I use my work cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send e-mails/documents 179 5.64
I use my private cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send e-mails/documents 391 13.13
Average: Energy/electricity 49.47
cont…

123
TABLE 3.14 (continued)
Item n Mean
I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for printing 529 41.36
I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for scrap paper 536 59.55
I use plastic/polystyrene drinking cups* 505 82.48
The office uses disposable cups/utensils for office functions* 452 80.75
I use my own drinking mug for coffee/tea 539 88.57
I re-use packaging boxes 490 59.32
I re-use old files/folders 528 68.84
I re-use the internal Unisa envelopes 521 80.85
I re-use plastic window envelopes 431 52.22
I use colour printing only when necessary 331 70.12
I use PowerPoint instead of paper presentations during meetings/presentations 375 70.87
I use cover sheets when faxing documents* 511 47.77
I use refillable pencils/pens 510 43.23
I separate office waste paper from other waste material 503 28.50
I use the e-waste facility at Unisa 460 16.66
I send used printer cartridges for refill/re-use 404 60.41
I dispose of my litter anywhere if a waste bin is not available* 527 93.43
I dispose of my unwanted ‘junk-mail’ in a waste bin instead of recycling* 504 55.89
Average: Waste 61.16
Item n Mean
I use Unisa’s recycle bin 434 23.71
I use my own desk-side recycle bin 413 41.91
I use the centrally located recycle bin in my business unit 313 20.80
I recycle single-sided paper 472 44.59
I recycle double-sided paper 442 33.68
I recycle unused CDs 377 19.35
I recycle printer/toner cartridges 386 50.84
I recycle empty aluminum cans 432 20.41
I recycle empty plastic/glass bottles 445 30.80
I discard my cigarette butt in a waste bin 99 37.42
I recycle shredded documents 240 24.35
I shred CDs using own/office equipment 201 7.21
I shred CDs using Unisa's e-waste facility 225 7.44
Average: Recycling 27.89
Item n Mean
When making tea/coffee I only heat as much water as needed/required 366 66.90
I use my own flask at work for drinking water 453 48.65
When using water taps at work, I use water sparingly 543 88.75
When using water taps at work, I ensure that the tap is properly closed after use 554 97.70
I instinctively drink tap water at work without considering the potential of contamination* 524 50.50
Average: Water 70.50
cont…

124
TABLE 3.14 (continued)
Item n Mean
I consume organic or eco-friendly food at work 501 41.29
I consume organic or eco-friendly beverages at work 494 38.66
Average: Food 39.98
Item n Mean
I participate in carpool clubs to ensure that travel to work is as low carbon as possible 459 17.02
I travel by bus to ensure that travel to work is as low carbon as possible 415 18.99
I set up video conferencing rather than travel to ensure as low carbon as possible 278 26.26
I set up phone meetings rather than travel to ensure as low carbon as possible 314 34.54
I use the Unisa bus shuttle service to ensure as low carbon as possible 363 28.77
When using a Unisa vehicle, it is clean 205 49.46
Average: Travelling 29.17
Total average 47.76
*Reverse items
The following is notable from table 3.7 to 3.14:
• There is no real difference in the green behaviour of males and females
although females seem slightly ‘greener’ in terms of paper, waste and
recycling behaviour and responsible water consumption. Statistically men
and women’s green behaviour is significantly different at a 95 % level of
confidence for the following 19 behaviour items (the gender mentioned after
each item reflects greener behaviour for that gender group):
o
I use e-cards or e-postcards for communication purposes (ie
invitations, promotions, etc) (females)
o I switch off my PC monitor if away from my office for more than 30
minutes (males)
o
My computer at work is pre-set to a power save mode (males)
o I use my work cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send e-
mails/documents (males)
o I use my private cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send e-
mails/doc (males)
o
o
I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for printing (females)
I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for scrap paper
(females)

125
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
I use plastic/polystyrene drinking cups (reverse item) (females)
The office uses disposable cups/utensils for office functions (reverse
item) (females)
I re-use packaging boxes (females)
I re-use old files/folders (females)
I re-use the internal Unisa envelopes (females)
I re-use plastic window envelopes (females)
I use cover sheets when faxing documents (reverse item) (males)
I send used printer cartridges for refill/re-use (females)
I recycle single-sided paper (female)
I recycle unused CDs (females)
I recycle printer/toner cartridges (females)
I use my own flask at work for drinking water (females)
• Higher qualified staff seem to act ‘greener’ in terms of paper and waste
management, energy/electricity consumption and recycling. Less qualified
staff seem to behave ‘greener’ when considering water and food
consumption and travelling. Statistically significant differences at a 95 %
level of confidence were notable for the following 16 items (the qualification
group mentioned after each item reflect greener behaviour for that specific
group)
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Use recycled paper (postgraduates)
I attempt to make revisions on screen before printing in hard copy
(postgraduates)
When leaving the office at day-end I switch off my computer
(diploma/certificate)
I fax directly from my computer to avoid printing (diploma/certificate)
My computer at work is pre-set to a power save mode
(postgraduates)
I have control of my office lighting (postgraduates)
I switch off lights when leaving my office in the evening
(postgraduates)

126
o I switch off lights during external meetings (postgraduates)
o I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for scrap paper
(graduates)
o I use PowerPoint instead of paper presentations during
meetings/presentations (graduates)
o I send used printer cartridges for refill/re-use (diploma/certificate and
graduates up to honours level)
o I use the centrally located recycle bin in my business unit
(diploma/certificate)
o I recycle single-sided paper (postgraduates)
o I discard my cigarette butt in a waste bin (postgraduates)
o I travel by bus to ensure that travel to work is as low carbon as
possible (diploma/certificate)
o I use the Unisa bus shuttle service to ensure as low carbon as possible
(diploma/certificate)
• Staff that have been employed at Unisa for less than five years seem less
‘green’ about waste management and recycling and water consumption than
staff who have been employed at Unisa for more than five years. Only six
behaviour items showed statistically significant differences at a 95 % level of
confidence (the tenure group mentioned after each item reflects greener
behaviour for that specific group). These were:
o
o
o
o
o
o
I read all e-mails on screen rather than printing them (shorter)
I read all e-mail-attached documents received on screen (shorter)
I use a screen saver on my computer monitor (reverse item) (longer)
The office uses disposable cups/utensils for office functions (reverse
item) (shorter)
I re-use the internal Unisa envelopes (longer)
I send used printer cartridges for refill/re-use (longer)
• Younger staff seem more ‘green’ in terms of paper usage and waste
management while older staff seem to be more responsible energy and

127
water and ethical food consumers. The 10 items that recorded statistically
significant differences at a 95 % level of confidence included the following
(the age group mentioned after each item reflects greener behaviour for that
specific group):
o I print every electronic document received via e-mail (reverse item)
(older)
o I read all e-mails on screen rather than printing them (younger)
o I read all e-mail-attached documents received on screen (younger)
o I use a screen saver on my computer monitor (reverse item) (older)
o I switch off my photocopier when leaving my office at night/end of
day (older)
o I switch off lights of unused offices (older)
o I use my private cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send e-
mails/documents (younger)
o I re-use packaging boxes (younger)
o I re-use the internal Unisa envelopes (older)
o When using water taps at work, I use water sparingly (older)
• Designated groups seem to be more responsible energy and food consumers
as well as travellers. A total of 32 items recorded statistically significant
differences at a 95 % level of confidence. These included (the group
mentioned after each item reflects greener behaviour for that specific
group):
o
o
o
o
Photocopier is set on default to double-sided photocopying
(designated)
I send e-mails instead of memos and letters on paper (nondesignated)
I use e-cards or e-postcards for communication purposes (ie
invitations, promotions, etc) (nondesignated)
I attempt to make revisions on screen before printing in hard copy
(non-designated)

128
o I use my laptop to view documents or record minutes during meetings
instead of using hard copy (designated)
o When leaving the office at day-end I switch off my computer
(designated)
o I switch off my PC monitor if away from my office for more than 30
minutes (designated)
o I switch off my PC monitor overnight/end of day (designated)
o I have the heater on at all times during the winter (reverse item)
(designated)
o The kitchen appliances of my business unit are switched off overnight
(designated)
o I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic
systems everyday (designated)
o I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for scrap paper
(nondesignated)
o I re-use old files/folders (nondesignated)
o I re-use the internal Unisa envelopes (nondesignated)
o I use colour printing only when necessary (nondesignated)
o I use PowerPoint instead of paper presentations during
meetings/presentations (nondesignated)
o I send used printer cartridges for refill/re-use (nondesignated)
o I use Unisa’s recycle bin (designated)
o I use my own desk-side recycle bin (designated)
o I use the centrally located recycle bin in my business unit (designated)
o I recycle single-sided paper (nondesignated)
o I recycle printer/toner cartridges (nondesignated)
o I recycle empty aluminium cans (nondesignated)
o I recycle empty plastic/glass bottles (nondesignated)
o I discard my cigarette butt in a waste bin (nondesignated)
o I recycle shredded documents (nondesignated)
o When using water taps at work, I use water sparingly (nondesignated)
o I consume organic or eco-friendly food at work (designated)
o I consume organic or eco-friendly beverages at work (designated)

129
o
o
o
I participate in carpool clubs to ensure that travel to work is as low
carbon as possible (designated)
I travel by bus to ensure that travel to work is as low carbon as
possible (designated)
I use the Unisa bus shuttle service to ensure as low carbon as possible
(designated)
• Staff with own office space generally seem to be ‘greener’ than those who
share an office. Of the 76 items, 25 showed statistically significant
differences at a 95 % level of confidence. These included (the group
mentioned after each item reflect greener behaviour for that specific group):
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Use recycled paper (own office)
I read all e-mails on screen rather than printing them (reverse item)
(own office)
I store files electronically or on disks instead of placing printed copies
in file cabinets (own office)
I attempt to make revisions on screen before printing in hard copy
(own office)
I use my laptop to view documents or record minutes during meetings
instead of using hard copy (own office)
I fax directly from my computer to avoid printing (shared office)
My computer at work is pre-set to a power save mode (own office)
I switch off my photocopier when leaving my office at night/end of
day (own office)
I switch off my air conditioner when I leave my office during office
hours/external meetings (own office)
I switch off my air conditioner when leaving my office at dayend/overnight
(own office)
I have the heater on at all times during the winter (reverse item)
(shared office)
I have control of my office lighting (own office)
I switch off lights when leaving my office in the evening (own office)

130
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
I switch off lights of unused offices (own office)
I switch off lights during external meetings (own office)
The kitchen appliances of my business unit are switched off overnight
(own office)
I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic
systems when absent from office for more than a day (own office)
I use colour printing only when necessary (own office)
I use refillable pencils/pens (own office)
I use the centrally located recycle bin in my business unit (shared
office)
I recycle single-sided paper (own office)
When using water taps at work, I use water sparingly (own office)
I travel by bus to ensure that travel to work is as low carbon as
possible (shared office)
I set up video conferencing rather than travel to ensure as low carbon
as possible (own office)
I set up phone meetings rather than travel to ensure as low carbon as
possible (own office)
• Staff with higher interest in environmental issues are generally ‘greener’ than
those with less interested. Statistical significant differences between
interests and less interested groups were recorded for 37 items at a 95 %
level of confidence. These were (the group mentioned after each item reflect
greener behaviour for that specific group):
o
o
o
o
Use recycled paper (extremely interested)
Computer is set on default to double-sided printing (extremely
interested)
I print every electronic document received via e-mail (reverse item)
(extremely interested)
I send e-mails instead of memos and letters on paper (extremely
interested)

131
o I use e-cards or e-postcards for communication purposes (ie
invitations, promotions, etc) (extremely interested)
o I store files electronically or on disks instead of placing printed copies
in file cabinets (extremely interested)
o I sort single-sided and double-sided used papers (extremely
interested)
o I attempt to make revisions on screen before printing in hard copy
(extremely interested)
o I use my laptop to view documents or record minutes during meetings
instead of using hard copy (extremely interested)
o My computer at work is pre-set to a power save mode (extremely
interested)
o I switch off my printer overnight/end of day (interested and extremely
interested)
o I switch off my photocopier when leaving my office at night/end of
day (extremely interested)
o I switch off lights during external meetings (extremely interested)
o I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic
systems everyday (extremely interested)
o I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic
systems when absent from office for more than a day (extremely
interested)
o I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for printing (extremely
interested)
o I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for scrap paper
(extremely interested)
o I re-use packaging boxes (extremely interested)
o I re-use old files/folders (extremely interested)
o I re-use plastic window envelopes (interested and extremely
interested)
o I use colour printing only when necessary (extremely interested)
o I use PowerPoint instead of paper presentations during
meetings/presentations (extremely interested)

132
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
I use refillable pencils/pens (extremely interested)
I separate office waste paper from other waste material (extremely
interested)
I use the e-waste facility at Unisa (extremely interested)
I dispose of my unwanted ‘junk-mail’ in a waste bin instead of
recycling (reverse item) (not interested, extremely interested)
I recycle single-sided paper (extremely interested)
I recycle double-sided paper (extremely interested)
I recycle unused CDs (extremely interested)
I recycle printer/toner cartridges (extremely interested)
I recycle empty aluminium cans (extremely interested)
I recycle empty plastic/glass bottles (extremely interested)
I recycle shredded documents (extremely interested)
I shred CDs using Unisa's e-waste facility (extremely interested)
When using water taps at work, I use water sparingly (extremely
interested)
I set up video conferencing rather than travel to ensure as low carbon
as possible (extremely interested)
I set up phone meetings rather than travel to ensure as low carbon as
possible (extremely interested)
The most appropriate way in which the measurement of the 76 green office
behaviour items could be presented was by ranking the green behaviour items by
major theme and corresponding average index scores. This outcome is presented
in table 3.15. The table clearly clusters the items by rating category where ‘red’
depicts ‘poor’ green behaviour and ‘orange’ moderate green behaviour. In turn
‘light green’ reflects good behaviour while ‘dark green’ reflects ‘excellent’ green
behaviour.

133
TABLE 3.15
GREEN OFFICE BEHAVIOUR RANKINGS
Major theme Item Score
Energy/electricity I use my work cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send e-mails/documents 5.64
Recycling I shred CDs using own/office equipment 7.21
Recycling I shred CDs using Unisa's e-waste facility 7.44
Energy/electricity I use my private cellphone to connect to the Internet to read/send e-mails/doc 13.13
Energy/electricity I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic systems everyday 15.09
Waste I use the e-waste facility at Unisa 16.66
Travelling I participate in carpool clubs to ensure that travel to work is as low carbon as possible 17.02
Travelling I travel by bus to ensure that travel to work is as low carbon as possible 18.99
Recycling I recycle unused CDs 19.35
Recycling I recycle empty aluminum cans 20.41
Energy/electricity
I remove the plugs from the socket(s) used for office electronic systems when absent from office
for more than a day
20.60
Recycling I use the centrally located recycle bin in my business unit 20.80
Paper, printing and storage Photocopier is set on default to double-sided photocopying 20.99
Energy/electricity I switch off my PC monitor if away from my office for more than 30 minutes 21.33
Energy/electricity I fax directly from my computer to avoid printing* 23.60
Recycling I use Unisa’s recycle bin 23.71
Recycling I recycle shredded documents 24.35
Energy/electricity I use a screen saver on my computer monitor* 24.76
Paper, printing and storage Computer is set on default to double-sided printing 26.12
Travelling I set up video conferencing rather than travel to ensure as low carbon as possible 26.26
Paper, printing and storage I use my laptop to view documents or record minutes during meetings instead of using hard copy 28.20
Waste I separate office waste paper from other waste material 28.50
Travelling I use the Unisa bus shuttle service to ensure as low carbon as possible 28.77
Recycling I recycle empty plastic/glass bottles 30.80
Recycling I recycle double-sided paper 33.68
Travelling I set up phone meetings rather than travel to ensure as low carbon as possible 34.54
Paper, printing and storage I sort single-sided and double-sided used papers 35.82
Recycling I discard my cigarette butt in a waste bin 37.42
Food I consume organic or eco-friendly beverages at work 38.66
Food I consume organic or eco-friendly food at work 41.29
Waste I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for printing 41.36
Paper, printing and storage Use recycled paper 41.45
Recycling I use my own desk-side recycle bin 41.91
Waste I use refillable pencils/pens 43.23
Recycling I recycle single-sided paper 44.59
Energy/electricity I switch off lights during external meetings 46.49
Waste I use cover sheets when faxing documents* 47.77
Water I use my own flask at work for drinking water 48.65
Travelling When using a Unisa vehicle, it is clean 49.46
Energy/electricity My computer at work is pre-set to a power save mode 50.48
Water I instinctively drink tap water at work without considering the potential of contamination* 50.50
Paper, printing and storage I use e-cards or e-postcards for communication purposes (ie invitations, promotions, etc) 50.71
Recycling I recycle printer/toner cartridges 50.84
Waste I re-use plastic window envelopes 52.22
Energy/electricity I switch off my air conditioner when I leave my office during office hours/external meetings 55.27
Waste I dispose of my unwanted ‘junk-mail’ in a waste bin instead of recycling* 55.89
cont…

134
TABLE 3.15 (continued)
Major theme Item Score
Energy/electricity The kitchen appliances of my business unit are switched off overnight 57.79
Waste I re-use packaging boxes 59.32
Waste I re-use paper that has been used single-sided for scrap paper 59.55
Energy/electricity I switch off my printer overnight/end of day 60.01
Waste I send used printer cartridges for refill/re-use 60.41
Energy/electricity I switch off lights of unused offices 61.56
Paper, printing and storage I store files electronically or on disks instead of placing printed copies in file cabinets 66.40
Water When making tea/coffee I only heat as much water as needed/required 66.90
Energy/electricity I switch off my photocopier when leaving my office at night/end of day 67.58
Energy/electricity I switch off my air conditioner when leaving my office at day-end/overnight 67.88
Waste I re-use old files/folders 68.84
Waste I use colour printing only when necessary 70.12
Energy/electricity I have control of my office lighting 70.55
Paper, printing and storage I print every electronic document received via e-mail* 70.85
Waste I use PowerPoint instead of paper presentations during meetings/presentations 70.87
Paper, printing and storage I read all e-mail-attached documents received on screen 72.34
Paper, printing and storage I read all e-mails on screen rather than printing them 73.82
Paper, printing and storage I attempt to make revisions on screen before printing in hard copy 74.00
Energy/electricity I switch off my PC monitor overnight/end of day 74.91
Energy/electricity I have the heater on at all times during the winter* 76.37
Paper, printing and storage I send e-mails instead of memos and letters on paper 79.34
Waste The office uses disposable cups/utensils for office functions* 80.75
Waste I re-use the internal Unisa envelopes 80.85
Waste I use plastic/polystyrene drinking cups* 82.48
Energy/electricity When leaving the office at day-end I switch off my computer 87.43
Waste I use my own drinking mug for coffee/tea 88.57
Water When using water taps at work, I use water sparingly 88.75
Energy/electricity I switch off lights when leaving my office in the evening 88.83
Waste I dispose of my litter anywhere if a waste bin is not available* 93.43
Water When using water taps at work, I ensure that the tap is properly closed after use* 97.70
*Reverse items
Based on the information displayed in table 3.15, it is clear that Unisa staff need to
be encouraged to improve on the following behaviour:
• Energy usage
o Cellphone usage to connect to Internet and read/send e-
mails/documents electronically
o
o
o
Remove plugs from sockets used for office electronic systems
Switch off PC monitors when leaving office at all times
Fax directly from computer

135
• Paper usage
o
Set photocopier on default to allow for double-side photocopying
• Recycling
o
o
o
o
o
Shred CDs
Recycle unused CDs and aluminium cans
Install recycled bins in departments
Encourage use of Unisa’s recycle bin
Recycle shredded documents
• Travelling
o
Encourage travelling by car pool and bus
• Waste
o
Encourage use of e-waste facility
In turn, Unisa staff should be encouraged to continue exercising the following
green office practices:
• Electricity
o
o
o
o
Switching off PC monitors
Using screen savers on computer monitor
Switching off heaters during winter-time (reverse item)
Switching off lights when leaving offices at day-end
• Paper usage
o
Send e-mails instead of memos and letters on paper
• Waste
o
o
o
Using own cups/utensils for office functions and own drinking mugs
for coffee/tea as opposed to disposables (reverse item)
Re-usage of Unisa envelopes
Using water sparingly and responsibly

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3.10 CONCLUSION
This chapter presented the outcome of the findings of the quantitative green office
study and qualitative environmental education bulletin board surveys. The chapter
to follow presents an overview of the sustainable institutional practices as reported
by the purposively sampled service departments. The sustainable office behaviour
and education practices surveys (chapter 3) and the survey on sustainable
environmental business practices by various service departments within Unisa are
summarised collectively in chapter 5.

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CHAPTER 4
SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTAL PRACTICES OF SELECTED
INTERNAL SERVICE DEPARTMENTS
4.1 INTRODUCTION
Alongside the sustainable environmental office behaviour and education practice
surveys (see chapter 3), the research model was also designed to gain inputs on
sustainable environmental business practices from various service departments within
Unisa. As with the sustainable environmental education practice survey, modified
online bulletin boards were designed to engage with the purposively sampled
respondents from various internal business service departments at Unisa. Inputs
received via the bulletin board self-completed interviews were also followed-up by indepth
personal face-to-face interviews with strategically positioned staff members.
This chapter presents the research outcomes resulting from the sustainable
environmental business service practices survey among service departments at Unisa.
In the sections to follow, sustainable environmental business service practices for each
of the participating service departments are discussed separately although some mutual
responsibilities and integration of services are acknowledged. Not only are service
departments investigated in terms of sustainable business service practices but also on
the extent to which awareness and knowledge are generated to encourage sustainable
environmental business service practices among staff.

138
The various nonacademic internal business service departments/directorates/divisions
by business portfolio included in the investigation are the following:
• Portfolio: Finance and University Estates
o
Finance Department
• Financial Accounting
• Procurement Directorate
• Special Projects and ABC/M Directorate
o
University Estates Department
• Infrastructure Development Directorate
• Maintenance Directorate
o
Support Services Department
• Conference, Cleaning and Catering Service Division
• Portfolio: Operations
o
Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) Department
• Operations Directorate
• User Support Directorate
• Portal and Academic Solutions
o
Study Material, Print, Production and Delivery Department
• Corporate Communication and Marketing Department
It is clear from the above that the investigation of responsible business service
practices ranges from service/product procurement, sustainable buildings and
landscaping, energy/water/paper consumption and management, transport,

139
food and dining to waste management. These sustainable environmental
business service practices are explored in more detail in the sections to follow.
4.2 FINANCE DEPARTMENT AND PROCUREMENT AND SPECIAL PROJECTS DIRECTORATES
The survey instrument was designed to address aspects of sustainable environmental
business service practices relevant to the Finance Department as well as the
Procurement and Special Projects and Activity Based Costing and Management (ABC/M)
Directorates. The feedback received from these departments are collated and
presented in section 4.2.1 to 4.2.3. The analysis is presented in grid format with the
following interpretations used to display the extent of sustainable environmental
business service practices:
☹
ӫ
☺
☻
Poor sustainable business service practices
Moderate sustainable business service practices
Good sustainable business service practices
Excellent sustainable business service practices
It is important to note that these sustainable business service practice measurement
ratings are applied across all service departments investigated in the study.

140
4.2.1 Environmental policy on procurement
The section on sustainable environmental procurement policies explored the following
issues:
• Existence of an sustainable environmental policy to guide ‘green’ product/
service procurement
A sustainable environmental procurement policy takes into consideration the ‘green’
status, responsible business practices and ‘green’ products/services of business service
providers. When inviting tenders for services to be rendered, such a policy will
encourage the outline of ‘green’ specifications and will take ‘green’ issues into
consideration when finally appointing a ‘responsible’ service provider. Such policy will
also form part of Unisa’s commitment to adhere to the environmental principles
outlined in the UNGC policy that, among others, supports the notion to undertake
initiatives to promote greater environmental responsibility.
• Existence of a ‘green’ mission to guide sustainable environmental procurement
•
practices
Environmental targets and action plans related to ‘green’ product/service
procurement
• Existence of a ‘green’ policy or guidelines for ‘external’ service suppliers to
provide the following products/services:
o
o
o
o
Printing of study material, textbooks, etc
Office equipment/stationery
Study material distribution
Building construction and maintenance

141
Grid 4.1 reflects the status level of sustainable environmental procurement policies
available at Unisa to direct sustainable business service practices in the Finance
Directorate.
GRID 4.1
STATUS OF PRODUCT/SERVICE PROCUREMENT POLICY AT UNISA
Green issue
Sustainable environmental procurement policy
Sustainable environmental procurement mission
Sustainable environmental targets/action plans for product/service procurement
Policy/guidelines on purchasing recycled paper (FSC certification)
Policy/guidelines on purchasing ‘green’ office equipment/stationery
Policy/guidelines on appointing responsible courier services to transport study material
Policy/guidelines on appointing responsible building contactors
Green status
☹
ӫ
ӫ
☹
☹
ӫ
ӫ
When interpreting the information in grid 1 it is important to note that all service
departments at Unisa are subject to the UNGC principles (see section 3.8). Although
there is no official policy on sustainable environmental procurement practices as yet,
the survey outcome showed high awareness among Unisa staff members of UNGC
environmental principles that form the core focus of this study. Future planning to
encourage the purchase of recycled paper and green office equipment/stationery
reflects good intentions but these have unfortunately not been fully incorporated as
part of the actual procurement process at Unisa. Based on the high awareness levels of
a duty to implement green procurement practices and with some clear signs of future
planning/actions in support of sustainable environmental procurement practices, a
moderate ‘green’ status has been awarded to visioning and planning improved
procurement practices.

142
The fact that Unisa only purchases virgin paper and currently has no official policy on
purchasing recycled paper or ‘green’ office equipment/stationery, produced a poor
‘green’ business service practice rating.
It is also currently not clear to what extent courier services used by Unisa have
sustainable transport programmes in place to minimise their carbon footprint. As
courier services will remain relevant to Unisa in the years to come (a large portion of
especially undergraduate students at Unisa reside in rural areas and do not have access
to electronic media), it is imperative to investigate the transportation status of current
services providers in terms of responsibility and consider this status in evaluating
Unisa’s service procurement process. The fact that Unisa will distribute study material
of postgraduate students online as from 2010 is indicative of a clear mission and action
plan to act more responsibly in the near future. Against this background, Unisa is
awarded a moderate ‘green’ rating for responsible distribution of study material.
The in-depth interviews conducted with staff members also affirmed that the appointed
architects, quantity surveyors and building construction companies who are involved in
the planning and construction of new Unisa buildings (Muckleneuk and Florida
campuses) show clear signs of applying sustainable building practices without
necessarily being outlined as part of the initial building specifications. Against this
background, Unisa is awarded a moderate ‘green’ rating.
4.2.2 Environmental awareness/commitment to ‘green’ procurement
Specific issues addressed in this section included:
• Extent of creating awareness across Unisa of sustainable environmental
product/service procurement
• Attempts to encourage/raise awareness to minimise paperwork, recycle paper,
re-use old files/folders and official envelopes

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• Perceptions and commitment of staff to support sustainable environmental
product/service procurement
• Departmental obligations towards sustainable environmental product/service
procurement
Grid 4.2 reflects the outcome of these aspects.
GRID 4.2
ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS OF AND COMMITMENT TO
GREEN PRODUCT/SERVICE PROCUREMENT AND USAGE
Green issue
Creating awareness among staff of green product/service procurement
Encourage/raise awareness to minimise paperwork, recycle paper, re-use old
files/folders and official envelopes
Staff’s current commitment to support ‘green’ product/service procurement
Staff’s future commitment to support ‘green’ product/service procurement
Green status
☹
☹
☹
ӫ
Grid 4.2 reflects poor sustainable business practice in terms of raising awareness and
encouragement of responsible procurement and improved ‘green’ office behaviour
among staff. A promising finding, however, is the perception that staff’s commitment
towards sustainable environmental product/service procurement is anticipated to
improve in the future.
4.2.3 Green product/service purchase practices
Focus in this section was on, among others, the following:
• Preference for and actual purchases of ‘green’ or ‘energy saving’ labelled office
equipment/stationery
• Preference for and actual purchases of recycled/virgin paper

144
• Monitoring mechanisms on evolution of energy and water usage
• Creating awareness of energy/water consumption levels among staff
Grid 4.3 reflects the research outcomes related to sustainable business service issues.
GRID 4.3
SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCT/SERVICE PURCHASE PRACTICES,
MONITORING MECHANISMS AND AWARENESS STRATEGIES
Green issue
Preference for ‘green’ or ‘energy saving’ labelled office equipment/stationery
Purchase of ‘green’ or ‘energy saving’ office equipment/stationery
Purchase of recycled paper
Monitoring mechanism to measure evolution of energy and water usage
Creating awareness of energy/water consumption levels among staff
Green status
☹
☹
☹
☺
☹
At the start of the discussion it should be noted that Unisa is serviced by, among others,
the Purchasing Consortium of Southern Africa (PURCO) who represents the purchasing
consortium of the higher education sector in Southern Africa. This implies that Unisa is
largely dependent on PURCO for the supply of environmentally friendly products (paper
and stationery) and services. Is was evident from the survey findings that (i) PURCO
provides no guidance on ‘green’ purchases and (ii) Unisa makes virtually no attempt to
negotiate and recommend or request ‘greener’ products/services. Against this
background, Unisa is encouraged to recommend, encourage and negotiate ‘greener’
product/service purchases with product/service providers other than only PURCO.
Grid 4.3 clearly reflects poor green status rating for sustainable business service
practices when considering actual purchases of ‘green’ or ‘energy saving’ office
equipment/stationery. Unisa also shows low preference levels for the purchase of

145
recycled paper (only purchases virgin paper) in particular, for which a ‘poor’ rating
status was awarded. This status award is also based on the fact that Unisa is a high
frequency user of items like paper which need to be reduced.
Whereas some monitoring mechanisms are in place to measure energy/water
consumption (good ‘green’ status rating), there is little effort to create awareness of
energy/water consumption levels among staff. With reference to existing monitoring
mechanisms, there is currently a process in place whereby Unisa is having power
measurements conducted on the Sunnyside, Parow and Polokwane campuses. Other
buildings to follow include Vista, Vudec and the Little Theatre complex.
Besides measuring the green practices and preferences related to issues reflected in grid
4.3, the research instrument was also constructed to quantify the number of paper
reams purchased/consumed monthly by Unisa. Similar quantifications were requested
for the monthly energy/water consumption levels by Unisa. The average monthly
expenditure figures for paper (virgin paper) and electricity/water are as follows:
• Paper: R2.695 million (Unisa only uses virgin paper) 1 per month
• Electricity/water: R3.276 million (All campuses)
per month
The monthly expenditure figures on paper and energy/water are extremely high (almost
R6 million per month). Recent increases in energy tariffs in South Africa will further
increase the magnitude of energy expenditure by Unisa. Unisa should therefore explore
strategies to improve not only on energy usage but also paper and water usage at Unisa
1 Average figures are for the first seven months of 2009. The average may decrease towards the end of the year as
Unisa Production is currently using more paper to print study guides for the 2010 academic year.
2 Average figures are for the first seven months of 2009. The average may decrease towards the end of the year
due to the cyclic nature of expenditure on water and electricity.

146
in the near future. Not only will such strategies contribute to cost reductions but they
could also improve the green business service image of the university.
General suggestions to improve sustainable environmentally friendly purchase practices
and encourage closer monitoring and higher awareness levels of energy, water and
paper consumption include the following:
• Negotiating purchases of environmentally friendly products (ie paper, stationery,
office equipment) with suppliers such as PURCO and ‘other’ product/service
providers.
• Raising awareness among staff of monthly energy/water consumption by
publishing (online via Corporate Communications and Marketing)
monthly/quarterly statistics on energy/water consumption. These could also
include statistics related to energy consumption levels on an hourly basis.
4.3 UNIVERSITY ESTATES DEPARTMENT
The Infrastructure Management and Maintenance Directorates in particular were
targeted as core business service providers to specifically investigate the sustainable
environmental status of Unisa campuses, buildings and landscaping. As in section 4.2
the investigation firstly focused on the existence of environmental policies related to
sustainable campuses, buildings and landscaping. In addition, the green status of
infrastructure/facilities, environmental projects and awareness initiatives were
explored. The outcomes of these findings are presented in the subsections to follow.

147
4.3.1 Environmental policies
The focus on environmental policy investigated the following specific aspects:
• Existence of environmental policies on sustainable office practices with specific
reference to effective energy and water consumption
• Existence of a ‘green’ mission on effective energy and water consumption
• Environmental targets/action plans in support of sustainable office practices
with specific reference to effective energy and water consumption
• Existence of guidelines/policies to support the donation/discounting of used
office furniture and supplies to employees/local charities and schools
Grid 4.4 reflects the findings resulting from the investigation.
GRID 4.4
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY, MISSION, TARGETS/ACTION PLANS TO PROMOTE
RESPONSIBLE ENERGY/WATER CONSUMPTION AND PHILANTHROPIC BEHAVIOUR
Green issue
Environmental policies on sustainable office practices with reference to effective
energy and water consumption
Green mission on building maintenance with specific reference to energy and
water consumption and energy/water saving practices
Environmental targets and action plans to support sustainable practices with
reference to effective energy and water consumption
Policies/guidelines to support donation/discounting of used office furniture and
supplies to employees/local charities
Green status
☹
☺
☺
☺
Grid 4.4 clearly shows that Unisa lacks a formal sustainable environmental policy on
electricity/water consumption. However, it is encouraging that Unisa has officially
committed itself to an energy efficiency campaign whereby all staff have formally been
encouraged to switch off office lights at day end. Based on the findings presented in
chapter 3, it seem that this strategy is highly successful with approximately 85 % of staff

148
claiming that they always switch off lights when leaving in the evening. However, the
same level of commitment to saving energy has not been as evident when considering
the switching off of computers, monitors, printers, copy machines and wall sockets.
There is also currently high concern about the responsible management of the security
lights (flood lights) at Unisa as well as the fact that geysers and boilers are not switched
off overnight and weekends.
The research investigation also reflects clear environmental targets or action plans with
specific reference to the following:
• Power factor correction has been conducted at the Florida, Durban, SBL and
Main campuses.
• Switching off of unrequired air conditioning and other equipment after hours at
especially the Florida and Main campuses.
• Load control on the Florida and Main campuses has been implemented to reduce
the maximum demand during office hours by switching off equipment for short
periods of time.
• Variable speed drives on air conditioning units which have reduced energy usage
at the Florida and Main campuses.
• Unisa is currently testing the use of occupational sensors for possible use in
different areas on the Unisa Main Campus.
• Unisa has started a programme limiting heaters to only one heater per office in
buildings.
• Unisa has developed guidelines for the installation of air conditioning units.
• Information has been obtained in terms of the changes that are envisaged in
respect to lighting changes to all buildings.
• A recent positive development, has been the practice to shut-off all warm water
in some bathrooms as an energy-saving strategy.

149
• Water saving is supported by installing special shower heads in the change
rooms.
• Waste water from bathrooms and rain water are discharged into gardens for
irrigation purposes (Registration building)
Furthermore, it is important to note that Unisa has a strategy in place to put used office
furniture and supplies up for sale to own employees. When used furniture is available,
Unisa invites prospective tenders via e-notification to attend auctions. In addition,
Unisa donates used office furniture to local charities/schools and communities.
4.3.2 Green infrastructure/facilities
Various aspects investigated regarding green infrastructure and facilities are discussed
in detail below.
4.3.2.1 Office environment
This section firstly aimed to obtain an overview of occupied and vacant office facilities.
Exhibit 4.1 provides an overview of Unisa buildings by building level/usage.

150
EXHIBIT 4.1
UNISA BUILDINGS BY BUILDING LEVEL/USAGE
Building facility
Classroom Facilities
Laboratory Facilities
Office Facilities
Study Facilities
Special Use Facilities
General Use Facilities
Level/usage
Classroom
Classroom Service
Class Laboratory
Class Laboratory Service
Open Laboratory
Open Laboratory Service
Research/Nonclass Laboratory
Nonclass Laboratory Service
Office
Office Service
Conference Room
Conference Room Service
Study Space
Stack
Open-Stack Study Space
Processing Space
Study Service
Sports/Physical Recreation
Sports Spectator Seating
Sports/Physical Recreation Service
Media Production
Media Production Service
Clinic (Nonhealth Professions)
Clinic Service (Nonhealth Professions)
Animal Facilities
Animal Facilities Service
Greenhouse
Greenhouse Service
Other (All Purpose)
Assembly
Assembly Service
Exhibition
Exhibition Service
Food Facility
Food Facility Service
Day Care
Day Care Service
Lounge
Lounge Service
Merchandising
Merchandising Service
Recreation
Recreation Service
Meeting Room
Meeting Room Service
Locker Space
Cont…

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EXHIBIT 4.1 (continued)
Building facility
Support Facilities
Health Care Facilities
Residential Facilities
Unclassified Facilities
Level/usage
Central Computer/Telecommunications
Central Computer/Telecommunications
Serv
Workshop
Workshop Service
Central Storage
Central Storage Service
Vehicle Storage
Vehicle Storage Service
Central Service
Central Service Support
Hazardous Materials Storage
Hazardous Waste Storage
Patient Bedroom
Patient Bath
Nurse Station
Surgery
Treatment/Examination Clinic
Diagnostic Service Laboratory
Staff On-Call Facility
Sleep/Study Without Toilet/Bath
Toilet/Bath
Sleep/Study With Toilet/Bath
Sleep/Study Service
Apartment
Apartment Service
House
Inactive Area
Alteration or Conversion Area
Unfinished Area
Exhibit 4.1 provides a good indication of the number of building facilities by building
level. The total area covered by buildings at the Unisa Main Campus amounts to
125 868m 2 . When only taking into account the number of full-time staff employed by
Unisa (3 800, including regions), a crude calculation based on the assumption that
approximately 60 % of the electricity and water is consumed by office staff occupying
office and office service facilities, results in a monthly average consumption of electricity
and water of approximately R500 per staff member. In addition, the average amount
spent on paper per staff member is approximately R285 per month. Quantifying the

152
electricity/water and paper usage in monetary value is part of an endeavour to create
awareness among staff of the impact of their current consumption behaviour with a
view to reducing these costs in the near future.
A further rationale for sourcing building information and quantifying the magnitude of
electricity, water and paper expenditure is to establish the extent to which current and
new infrastructure is likely to impact on Unisa’s campus environment.
Besides profiling Unisa’s buildings and quantifying the expenditure on energy, water and
paper based on staff numbers, the office environment investigation also focused on the
current presence of the following ‘green’ building practices:
• Maximising of natural light when designing or recommending office layout
• Regularity of air quality tests
• Office ventilation practices
• Live plants in offices
Grid 4.5 reflects the status of the additional ‘green’ building practices investigated by
the study.
GRID 4.5
STATUS OF SELECTED GREEN BUILDING PRACTICES
Green issue
Maximising the use of natural light when designing or recommending office layout
Regularity of air quality tests in offices
Office furniture is clear of vents to ensure proper ventilation
Sufficient live plants in offices to help improve air quality
Green status
☻
☻
☺
ӫ

153
The fact that almost 80 % of staff confirmed that a substantial amount of natural light is
available in work area(s) is a clear indication that natural light is used very efficiently in
office designs. Building plans for new office space also maximise the use of natural light.
Unisa also conducts annual air quality tests in offices and monitors trends. Two air-flow
charges per hour are currently executed at the Unisa Main campus in support of
improved air quality. Although regular inspections are conducted and guidance in office
layout is provided to ensure proper ventilation, some simply close-off ventilation and
remove furniture without consulting with Unisa Estates. Although, live plants are
available in some offices, a third of staff have no live plants in their offices to help
improve air quality. Also, maintenance of office plants is currently not up to standard.
4.3.2.2 Maintenance and installation
The research investigation also focused on the extent to which the following ‘green’
maintenance and installation functions are practiced at Unisa:
• Maintenance of light fixtures and high energy/water consumption facilities
• Replacement of incandescent lights with low energy globes
• Control of air-conditioning system temperature
• Watering of office plants
• Water-wise gardening
• Purchase practices for bathroom equipment with reference to timed taps in
particular
• Preferences for installation of hand-blow driers
• Extent of SA indigenous plants used in Unisa gardens
• Presence/absence of invader plants at Unisa

154
Grid 4.6 reflects the outcome of the investigation into the ‘green’ maintenance and
installation functions practiced at Unisa.
GRID 4.6
STATUS OF GREEN MAINTENANCE AND INSTALLATION FUNCTIONS
Green issue
Regular maintenance of light fixtures
Programme available to regularly maintain light fixtures
Replacement of incandescent lights with low energy globes
Central air-conditioning system is regulated and set differently for summer/winter
Staff control of own air-conditioning systems
Regularity of watering office plants
Use of water wise gardening
Purchase ‘timed’ taps for bathrooms
Installation of hand-blow driers instead of paper towels in the bathrooms
South African indigenous plants in garden landscaping
Invader plants growing in gardens
Green status
☺
☻
☺
☺
ӫ
☹
ӫ
☹
☺
☺
☹
Unisa regularly maintains light features and has a dedicated maintenance service
available for this purpose. Unisa has also started with a comprehensive campaign
replacing all incandescent lights with low energy globes. Furthermore, in most instances
air temperature is centrally regulated at 23.5 o C. Self-control of air temperature is
limited.
There is no concrete evidence on attempts to encourage staff to consider other ‘green’
practices rather than instinctively switching on heaters during winter months. However,
it is encouraging to note the practice of eradicating all heaters from centralised areas
across Unisa.

155
The survey among staff revealed irregular watering office plants. The fact that the
timed-water garden system remains on during rainy days is also indicative that waterwise
gardening has not been implemented to its full potential. A weather sensitivegarden
watering system would be ideal. Besides timed watering, Unisa gardens are also
watered manually. In general, the management of garden water usage still requires
improvement.
Unisa bathrooms currently do not have ‘timed’ taps although hand-blow driers are
installed in most bathrooms. Hand-blow driers have not yet been installed on the Vista
and Vudec campuses. In addition, in the sustainable environmental office behaviour
survey (see chapter 3), staff indicated that hand-blow driers are often out-of-order. Or
pose a health risk. Thus, it seems that no regular maintenance programmes are in place
for hand-blow driers.
Unisa’s gardens particularly the property of Principal and Vice Chancellor contain
various indigenous plants. However, invader plants are still present in some gardens.
4.3.2.3 Environmental facilities
Unisa currently contracts a waste disposal service provider who disposes of Unisa’s
paper and e-waste. Although the research failed to quantify the monthly paper and e-
waste generated by Unisa in terms of consumption levels (kg) and cost (rand), the focus
was more on the following:
• The nature of environmental facilities at Unisa (ie e-waste, paper waste, glass and
plastic bottle recycling facilities)
• Re-usage of e-waste and packaging boxes
• Availability and sufficiency of video-conferencing facilities

156
Grid 4.7 reflects the outcome of the investigation into the aspects highlighted above.
GRID 4.7
STATUS OF ENVIRONMENTAL FACILITIES AT UNISA
Green issue
E-waste facility
Re-use of e-waste (ie cartridges, toners, etc)
Central campus paper waste facility
Department/office paper waste facility
Glass/bottle recycling facility
Sufficient number of video conferencing facilities
Green status
☺
ӫ
☻
☹
☹
☺
Although Unisa has an e-waste facility, the location and safety of the facility has raised
some concerns among staff who are aware of and have utilised the e-waste facility. On
the other hand, approximately 70 % of staff who participated in the green office practice
survey (see chapter 3) indicated that they had never used the e-waste facility at Unisa.
Although Unisa has started with a campaign to re-use e-waste, early indications point to
low success levels. In addition, despite the aggressive marketing of the e-waste facility
and services, it seems that the on-campus promotion (poster) campaign has had limited
impact on creating the desired level of awareness of the e-waste facility among staff.
Only approximately a third of staff claim to be aware of on-campus e-waste
signs/posters.
Although Unisa has a centrally based paper waste facility, there are limited paper waste
facilities at departmental and office levels. There are also no other waste facilities (ie
glass/bottle, aluminum cans).

157
Although Unisa has video conferencing facilities in place more of these are required to
reduce travelling by vehicle and limiting carbon footprints. Additional facilities are
currently planned for the Florida Campus while facilities at the Main Campus are being
expanded and made more accessible to staff.
4.3.2.4 Environmental monitoring/control
This section aimed at firstly establishing what amount Unisa spends on energy and
water consumption every month. Actual figures show that Unisa spends an average of
approximately R3.276 million on electricity/water per month. It is encouraging to note
that Unisa monitor energy/water consumption levels on a monthly basis although these
are not communicated to staff to raise awareness and encourage more responsible
consumption.
The following environmental monitoring and control issues were investigated in the
study:
• Monitoring mechanisms that measure energy/water consumption
• Energy/water saving practices/projects
Grid 4.8 reflects the outcome of the investigation on the above-mentioned aspects.
GRID 4.8
ENERGY/WATER MONITORING MECHANISMS AND STRATEGIES
Green issue
Regular monitoring of energy/water consumption
Energy/water saving strategy for office staff
Raising awareness of energy/water consumption
Regularity of watering gardens
‘Timed’ water systems
Green status
☺
☹
☹
☺
☺

158
Unisa monitors its energy and water consumption levels via power factor measurements
as well as a maximum demand control for electricity in particular. However, such
initiatives are not supported by effective communication to encourage improved
responsible energy/water usage. Unisa also has no means of determining whether
office equipment is switched off by staff. The lack of communication strategy is also
reflected in the absence of any energy/water saving strategy among office staff at Unisa.
However, when considering garden watering, strategies and systems are in place. In
this regard Unisa waters gardens regularly and uses timed and manual garden water
systems.
4.3.3 Environmental projects
This section of the survey investigated the existence of any specific green office projects
implemented at Unisa. Projects include the following:
• Hand-blow driers in bathrooms
• Indigenous plant landscaping
• Energy conservation (switching off office lights at day end)
• E-waste facility
• Paper waste facility
4.3.4 Environmental awareness
This section aimed to determine the extent of staff awareness campaigns/programmes
related to ‘green’ projects. The Unisa internal e-communication system (Intcom) is the
main means used to inform staff on energy conservation matters. In addition, a poster
campaign has been used to increase awareness of the Unisa e-waste facility although
with limited success. Besides these, Unisa’s attempts to create environmental
awareness of ‘green’ projects/initiatives seem fairly limited.

159
The green status of the environmental awareness aspects investigated by the research
study is reflected in grid 4.9.
GRID 4.9
IMPLEMENTATION/AWARENESS STRATEGIES RELATED TO GREEN PROJECTS/INITIATIVES
Green issue
Implementation strategy on ‘green’ projects/initiatives
Awareness strategy related to ‘green’ office projects/initiatives
Initiatives to encourage staff to use their own mugs in the vending machines
Vending cup recycling scheme
Electricity and water consumption volumes are communicated to staff to
encourage more responsible behaviour
Green status
☺
☹
☹
☹
☹
Although there are a few ‘green’ strategies in place, endeavours to raise awareness of
these projects/initiatives are limited. Typical green initiatives such as staff using their
own mugs in vending machines and a vending cup recycling scheme are also not
currently applied at Unisa. As already mentioned, electricity and water consumption
volumes are not communicated to staff to encourage more responsible staff behaviour.
4.3.5 General
From the feedback received from respondents it was clear that Unisa does not track its
carbon footprint. Ideas/suggestions to improve environmental management and make
Unisa more sustainable and environmentally friendly included the following:
• Increase number of live office plants to improve air quality and office ambience
• Encourage the use of water-based paints and avoid use of paints with a chemical
base
• Use more environmentally friendly carpet glue
• Purchase carpets manufactured from recycled materials.

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4.4 CONFERENCE, CLEANING AND CATERING SERVICES DEPARTMENT
The sustainable environmental business service aspects related to conferencing,
cleaning, and catering service that were investigated in the study are explored in more
detail below. These aspects relate mainly to policy regulations and creating awareness
to encourage improved sustainable service and office practices.
4.4.1 Environmental policy
Grid 4.10 reflects the green status of the selected environmental policy issues
investigated by the research study, which bear specific relevance to conference,
cleaning and catering services.
GRID 4.10
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ON CONFERENCING, CLEANING AND CATERING FACILITIES
Green issue
Environmental policies/guidelines on conferencing, cleaning and catering
‘Green’ mission for sustainable conference, cleaning and catering services
Environmental targets/action plans to support sustainable conferencing,
cleaning and catering services
Green status
☹
ӫ
ӫ
There is no environmental policy, guideline or green mission statement that currently
guides sustainable conferencing, cleaning and catering services. Neither is there any
action plan or target related to sustainable conferencing, cleaning and catering services.
4.4.2 Environmental awareness
It is clear from the research that internal staff and external service providers are not
provided with sufficient information/guidelines to create awareness of sustainable
environmental conference, cleaning and catering practices at Unisa.

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4.4.3 General
Ideas for promoting a sustainable office environment included the following:
• On-site recycling
• Encourage the use of environmentally friendly cleaning products
• Introduce separate recycling waste bins for plastics, glass, paper and cans to
encourage recycling and build awareness among staff about the importance and
benefits (ie using recycled materials saves trees, recycling saves landfill space
and energy and creates jobs) of recycling.
• Food separation project for waste foods
• Negotiate with contracted catering service provider(s) about the increased
availability of ethical food/beverages at Unisa cafeterias as well as the
implementation of a vending cup recycling scheme
4.5 INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) DIRECTORATE
The Operations and User Support Department in particular was targeted to participate.
4.5.1 Environmental policy
Issues investigated under this section included the following:
• Existence of ‘green’ mission of ICT department
• Existence of environmental policies on sustainable office practices
• Setting of environmental targets/action plans to support sustainable office
practices
• Existence of guidelines/policies to encourage the use of e-mail communication
Grid 4.11 reflects the green status of the selected environmental policy related to the
issues listed above.

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GRID 4.11
STATUS OF ICT GREEN POLICY/TARGETS/ACTION PLANS RELATED TO
SUSTAINABLE OFFICE PRACTICES
Green mission
Green issue
Environmental policy on sustainable office practices
Policy/guidelines on purchase of re-manufactured printer equipment
Setting of environmental targets/action plans to support sustainable office
practices
Existence of guidelines/policies to encourage the use of e-mail
communication
Green status
ӫ
☹
ӫ
☹
ӫ
The research revealed a lack of an official sustainable environmental policy. However,
certain green operations (mission) were evident, not necessarily guided by ICT but
informally practiced as part of day-to-day routine work. Line managers are encouraging
staff to set computers to default double-sided printing. It was encouraging to note the
practice of destroying old personal computers and other electronic equipment
according to set procedures as well as donating old computers to schools. Unisa also
currently has a number of guidelines related to the re-use of printer equipment. Empty
cartridges are handed in and refilled. However, the success rate of this practice is not