ANU to Transform Campus Into Green Hub

The Australian National University (ANU) will receive $1 million in Federal Government funding to transform its iconic Canberra campus into a sustainable green hub.

Federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett said the funding would help the University implement its Education Precincts for the Future project, stating "the funding will allow the ANU to install photovoltaic solar panels and trial a solar split air conditioning system â a technological innovation developed by ANU researchers.

"The University will also increase the use of carbon neutral transport on campus and upgrade facilities to assist long-distance bicycle commuters."

Member for Fraser Bob McMullan said, "through these energy saving measures, the University expects to save 1,529 tonnes of carbon emissions a year - the equivalent of taking 436 cars off the road.

"The University will also coordinate green events including festivals, debates, seminars, training and targeted workshops encouraging attendees to become change advocates."

The Education Precincts for the Future project is one of 13 projects supported by the Federal Government's Green Precincts Fund, an initiative to prepare Australia for a future with less water and to encourage local communities to better manage their water and energy use.