Aligned with Task 4.4 “SEA-EU Goes Greener”, the University of Algarve (UALG) has been successfully implemented to promote energy-saving awareness across campuses. This initiative was carried out by two dedicated Bachelor of Biology students, Rui Couto and Letícia Lima, under the coordination of Professor Doctor Jacinta Fernandes.
Over the course of three months, Rui and Letícia worked diligently for 120 hours, supported by a scholarship, to develop and execute the project. The main goal was to encourage responsible energy consumption by creating and distributing informative materials throughout the university.
Key Achievements:
- Energy Consumption information: The team collected monthly energy consumption data from UAlg’s technical services to provide context and support their awareness campaign.
- Development of Awareness Materials: Five types of posters were designed to communicate essential energy-saving messages, specifically addressing electricity consumption related to lights, air conditioning, computers, and projectors.
- Campus-Wide Outreach: Posters were strategically placed across 169 locations, including:
- 75 classrooms, laboratories, auditoriums, and amphitheaters
- 5 bathrooms
- 3 study rooms
- 4 corridors
- 58 offices
- 24 library study rooms
- Direct Engagement: The students personally interacted with approximately 320 individuals, including students, faculty, and non-teaching staff, to spread awareness and encourage active participation in energy-saving efforts.
This initiative represents an important step in UAlg’s commitment to sustainability, aligning with SEA-EU’s broader mission of fostering environmentally responsible practices within the academic community. The collaborative effort of students, faculty, and staff highlights the power of small actions in creating a significant environmental impact.
