The awards also provide the sector with benchmarks for excellence and are respected by government, funding councils, senior management, academics and students. They are administered by the Environmental Association for Universities and Colleges.
City of Glasgow College and Glasgow Caledonian University have both been nominated for the campus of the future award.
Glasgow Kelvin College has two projects shortlisted for the student engagement award – Glasgow Kelvin Velocity, which encourages students to take part in cycling and outdoor activities and a white ribbon campaign, Sustainable Inclusive Social Practice.
David Johnston from the University of the West of Scotland is a finalist for the sustainability champion staff award and Ayrshire College is up for the next generation learning and skills award for its Green Teachers initiative.
The winners will be announced during a ceremony at the National Railway Museum in York on Thursday, November 8.
Paul Little, City of Glasgow College principal and chief executive, said: “We are delighted to have reached the finals of this national competition. We are very much a pioneering college providing world class educational facilities in the heart of Glasgow.
“The development of our technologically advanced twin site super campus heralded a culture change process with innovative new ways of teaching and learning. Our buildings are not only architecturally stunning but are environmentally responsible and designed to adapt to and accommodate the changing needs of future generations of staff and students.”
Shaun McLaughlin, Glasgow Kelvin College student president, said: “To get acknowledgement for the work of our students and the association on such a prestigious platform as the Green Gown Awards is amazing.
“For both projects we’ve worked hard to raise awareness of major issues such as carbon reduction and the prevention of violence against women. Both of these have a global audience and we recognise that starting small can have a significant impact. We’re very proud to be part of this and are looking forward to November.”
Colin Ross, Ayrshire College social sciences curriculum manager, said: “This is an excellent opportunity for Ayrshire College to create a tangible and substantial improvement within our environment.
Preparing the next generation of teachers with strong environmental values allows them to go on and impart these upon pupils year on year, leaving a lasting positive impact for generations to come.”
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