The University of Reading has reached a crucial milestone in reducing its environmental impacts, hitting a 40 per cent reduction target in its carbon footprint.

In 2016, the university met its ambition of delivering a 35 per cent emissions cut, compared to its baseline 2008/09 emissions.

This latest milestone leaves it well-placed to deliver on its current 45 per cent reduction target by 2021.

The university is highlighting its work to reduce its own carbon footprint as part of ‘Made at Reading’, a week-long campaign highlighting Reading’s environmental research and action.

The week culminates in ‘Show Your Stripes’ day on Friday June 21, which invites the public to download and share new graphics by Reading researcher Professor Ed Hawkins, which highlight how every corner of the globe is warming.

Dan Fernbank, energy and sustainability manager at the University of Reading, will be taking over the university's Twitter account @UniofReading for the day on Tuesday to highlight some of the work being carried out to reduce its carbon footprint.

Mr Fernbank said: "Environmental concerns have increasingly become headline news in recent times.

"We are matching the rise in the expectations of students, staff and our local community with our own environmental leadership.

"With a large and evolving estate, there is always more work to be done and we will continue to run a strong sustainability programme to deliver lasting change.

"We are committed to embracing new and innovative ways to help the University wipe out its carbon footprint."

This academic year has seen some major advances in reducing carbon emissions, including the extension of the university's district heating system, which is a more efficient centralised system which reduces pollution.

The university has also seen the introduction of a furniture and equipmnent recycling scheme and the launch of a new platform to engage and reward staff taking environmental action.

Reading is one of seven universities to sign up to the Government’s Carbon Emissions Reduction Pledge 2020 in October 2018.

This was supported by both the university’s vice chancellor, Professor Robert Van de Noort, and president of Reading University Students’ Union (RUSU), Jason Dabydoyal.