Reuse
Circular solutions and reuse are becoming increasingly important. The University of Agder strives to reuse furniture and fixtures, including refurbishing meeting room chairs and sofas, and repurposing shelves and other fixtures.
Mobility
The University of Agder encourages students and staff to choose environmentally friendly transportation to and from campus. For those who wish to cycle, we have outdoor bike parking available in multiple locations. Bikes can also be stored in Pedalen, our secure bike hotel. Staff and students have access to locker rooms and shower facilities on both campuses. Additionally, bicycles and electric cars are available for staff use.
Energy production
At the University of Agder, we are committed to producing renewable energy. We have over 1,800 m² of solar panels on roofs in Kristiansand and over 2,000 m² on roofs in Grimstad. Additionally, we have 200 m² of solar panels integrated into facades and windows in Kristiansand. We also have 20 geothermal energy wells in production in Grimstad. The building housing i4Helse is 80 percent self-sufficient with renewable energy through solar panels and geothermal wells. We aim to continue development and become even more energy self-sufficient in the coming years.
Energy reduction
UiA is working with property owners on both campuses to reduce energy usage, aiming for a 40 percent reduction by 2030. Investments have been made in LED lighting in various areas and further upgrades are ongoing. The university extensively uses sensor technology for ventilation and lighting, contributing to reduced unnecessary uptime. Since 2013, Campus Kristiansand has had an energy monitoring system. With multiple measurement points on campus, it has been possible to identify energy drains and implement targeted energy efficiency measures.
Waste sorting
In 2024, we achieved a waste sorting rate of approximately 60 percent. We aim to increase this rate, setting a target for 75 percent waste sorting by 2030. Environmental stations with separate fractions for food waste, glass and metal packaging, plastic packaging, electronic waste and batteries, deposit items, cardboard and paper, and residual waste are placed at central locations on both campuses. By encouraging and informing about proper waste sorting, we hope to increase waste sorting rates in the future.
Eco-Lighthouse certification
In spring 2024, the University of Agder achieved Eco-Lighthouse certification. Eco-Lighthouse is Norway's most widely used certification for enterprises aiming to document their environmental efforts and demonstrate social responsibility.
See more information on what it means for UiA to be Eco-Lighthouse certified.