Ernie-gets-social
Tuesday 28 June 2011
Southampton Solent University’s Louise Drake has been awa
rded a prestigious UnLtd/Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) award for leading the University’s innovative Eco Ernie recycling scheme.
Louise, was recently named 'Outstanding non-teaching staff social entrepreneur' at the national Dare to be Different Conference – the culmination of a £1m programme delivered by UnLtd, the Foundation for Social Entrepreneurs and HEFCE.
Judges praised The Eco Ernie co-ordinator for her passion and commitment in developing the converted milk float - which was initially conceived in response to mounting waste generated by students moving out of their rented accommodation at the end of the academic year.
Louise said: “This award highlights the success of Eco Ernie and the hard work of every person who has been involved. I hope my award inspires others to give their idea a go, no matter how wild or crazy it may seem at the time. If you have the passion and dedication anything can be achieved.”
Since its launch in 2009, the community-based recycling initiative - underpinned by staff and student volunteers in partnership with the City Council, Baptist Church and local charities – has also generated significant funds for charities through collecting unwanted textiles from students as they leave their rented homes in the Summer.
Last year, the multi-award winning project gave the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance its biggest ever textile donation, which was credited with helping to keep it airborne. Other charities across Southampton benefitted from collections of bric-a-brac, books and electrical equipment and relations between students and residents were greatly improved.
Louise has also been spreading the recycling message to other areas of the city with visits to local schools and appearances at environmental events run by Southampton City Council and Southampton IKEA.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Richard Blackwell said: “Louise is a shining example of creative energy applied to volunteering and social enterprise. Partly as a result of her efforts, these activities will form a key part of Solent University's future strategy and 'offer' to students.”
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