Editorial
Apparently we're all going green. Or so everyone except those with their hands on Oxford's purse strings seems to think. As the seventh largest consumer of green electricity in Europe, the University is under pressure to renew its contract. However, Oxford is wavering. When you consider that the cost of the environmentally friendly contract would mean a 60 per cent increase on the bill, equating to over £4m, it is not too hard to understand why.
Of course environmental issues should no longer be stigmatised as a concern for only a minority. Climate change is a reality which will affect us all, and thus we all have a duty to reduce the negative impact we have upon our environment. In the long run, investing in more expensive environmentally friendly energy, transport and products, will save money in the future as non-renewable resources become scarce and the damage caused by neglect of green causes holds a high financial price in the future.
However, as ever, money remains the decisive factor and questions of where priorities lie must be asked. Especially as the funding system for education in this country leaves much to be desired. 'Financial considerations' are fast becoming the most cited excuse for the inability to fulfil ideals.
Is it right that an institution, whose purpose is to educate and cultivate thought, should sacrifice money that could improve resources to paying more for environmentally friendly energy?
It is clear that a balance must be struck. The pro-green lobby is hugely vocal in its views yet those who oppose the full renewal of the contract are more reticent.
Why do those within the University retreat behind the universal get out clause of 'financial reasons' without arguing their point more strongly? Since green is currently the most politically correct position, perhaps there is a fear of giving reasons opposing something which so many have deemed objectively 'good.' Without constructive discussion between the two opposing views, there will be no progress. We call on the University to explain its 'financial reasons.' Perhaps then we can begin to address the issue of what Oxford is spending its money on; a debate which encompasses more than just the institution's use of green electricity.
It was encouraging to see the success of Monday night's event to raise money for the Asian tsunami crisis. £12,000 was a significant contribution from the students of this university in the course of just one evening.
20th Jan 2005