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EcoCampus Environmental Management for Higher and Further Education

EcoCampus is an environmental management framework tailored for universities and colleges, supporting the development and enhancement of Environmental Management Systems (EMS) within higher and further education. The scheme follows a structured, step-by-step process, guiding institutions through four progressive award levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Each stage acknowledges increasing commitment and achievement in sustainability. The Platinum level is fully aligned with ISO 14001, offering a direct route to internationally recognized environmental certification. As the primary certification body for EcoCampus Gold and Platinum, Kiwa enables educational institutions to integrate sustainable practices, achieve compliance, and demonstrate leadership in environmental stewardship.

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What is EcoCampus?

EcoCampus offers a flexible, phased framework that enables universities and colleges to develop and maintain an environmental management system aligned with best practices. The scheme guides institutions through each stage of their sustainability journey, helping to integrate environmental management into daily operations, achieve recognition for ongoing improvement, and reduce energy and resource consumption.

This approach not only lowers environmental impact but also prepares participants for ISO 14001 certification. With over 15 years of experience, EcoCampus is trusted by more than 70 institutions in the UK and internationally, including the University of Worcester, which has maintained ISO 14001 certification since 2015.

 

Why Choose Kiwa?

Kiwa is recognized globally for its expertise in certifying environmental management systems within the higher education sector. Institutions benefit from independent verification aligned with ISO 14001, delivered by auditors who possess both technical knowledge and a strong understanding of sustainability challenges in universities and colleges.

The certification process with Kiwa supports continuous improvement and knowledge sharing, helping institutions demonstrate ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility and compliance. Beyond certification, Kiwa acts as a reliable partner, dedicated to supporting measurable improvements in environmental performance and enhancing institutional reputation  

The four phases of EcoCampus

Each successful phase earns a certificate of achievement, with Platinum participants achieving full ISO 14001 certification.

EcoCampus is built around four progressive phases, each with defined requirements and outcomes:

Bronze – Planning

Establish an environmental policy, identify legal obligations, and begin setting objectives.

Silver – Implementing

Put systems and processes in place to manage environmental impacts and risks.

Gold – Operating

Ensure procedures are active, effective, and reviewed regularly through internal audits.

Platinum – Checking and correcting

Verify full system implementation and continuous improvement, aligning with ISO 14001.

The certification process with Kiwa

    Assessment

    Each stage of the EcoCampus program is independently evaluated to ensure all requirements are met

    Award

    Certificates are granted at every completed phase, from Bronze through to Platinum. Achieving Platinum confirms certification to ISO 14001.

    Maintenance

    Ongoing membership includes annual external audits for the Gold and Platinum stages, along with continuous support to help institutions maintain compliance and drive continual improvement.

Benefits of the Service

Stronger environmental performance

Identify, manage, and reduce your environmental impacts — from energy use and waste to travel and procurement.

A clear path to ISO 14001

Progress through the four EcoCampus phases and achieve full alignment with the world’s leading environmental management standard.

Cost and resource efficiency

Save on energy, water, and waste management costs through more effective monitoring and targeted improvements.

Regulatory and sector compliance

Ensure that your institution meets all relevant environmental and sustainability requirements, reducing the risk of non-compliance.

Enhanced reputation and credibility

Demonstrate your environmental commitment to students, staff, stakeholders, and the wider community — strengthening your brand as a responsible, forward-thinking institution.

Improved staff and student engagement

Build a shared culture of environmental awareness and action, inspiring participation and ownership at every level.

Knowledge sharing and collaboration

Join a recognised network of universities and colleges committed to sustainability, sharing best practices and innovative approaches.

Recognition for progress

Receive awards at each phase — Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum — showcasing your continuous improvement and dedication to sustainability.

What’s included in the EcoCampus programme

EcoCampus provides both structure and support throughout implementation. Participants benefit from:

  • A flexible EMS framework tailored for the education sector.

 

  • A nationally recognised award scheme for higher and further education.

 

  • Training and CPD workshops in environmental management.

 

  • Networking opportunities to share ideas and best practices.

 

  • Comprehensive guidance materials and software tools (including document templates).

 

  • Consultancy and one-to-one support throughout the implementation journey.

 

  • Independent audits and certification delivered in partnership with Kiwa.

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