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Transform Net Zero initiative scoops prize at the Herald Higher Education Awards in Glasgow
A research initiative which has supported over 100 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Scotland's food and drink sector to cut carbon emissions has won a trophy at the prestigious 2024 Herald Higher Education Awards.
The Transform Net Zero initiative, led by academics from Abertay University’s Division of Engineering and Food Science, triumphed over strong competition to win the ‘Outstanding Business Engagement in Universities’ award at the ceremony on Tuesday 28 May 2024, in Glasgow.
The annual awards ceremony celebrates innovations in Scottish universities and colleges, showcasing advancements in teaching, marketing strategies, student support, and employer engagement, along with recognising outstanding student contributions to campus life and academia.
The award judges commended the Transform Net Zero initiative for its profound environmental impact and its tangible benefits to local businesses, noting that since its inception in 2021, the team has successfully completed over 20 innovative projects with SMEs across Scotland.
These efforts include extending the shelf-life of 12 products and creating 10 new market products through waste recycling, benefitting both the environment and business profitability.
The initiative has built strong relationships with food and drink SMEs, utilising Abertay’s academic expertise and research facilities to improve products, including the iconic Dundee cake.
The University was nominated in three other categories, including:
- Marketing/PR Campaign: For the Abertay A to B campaign, a comprehensive brand awareness initiative that reshaped the institution's narrative around its core values, local pride, and social mission.
- Outstanding Contribution from a Student (shared with the University of Dundee): Laura Young's impactful environmental advocacy, which catalysed positive policy changes such as the ban on disposable vapes.
- Enhancing Student Learning Award (sponsored by QAA): Recognising the University’s implementation of credit-bearing microcredentials, instrumental in fostering student success and smoothing the transition into university life.
Jackie McKenzie, Director of External and Corporate Relations, said:
We're delighted by the Transform Net Zero team's well-deserved victory and we extend our congratulations to the other nominees for being recognised at these prestigious awards. It is a fantastic achievement to have had the hard work of our staff, our researchers and our students acknowledged across four different categories - a great result especially given the size of our institution. This success reaffirms the University’s dedication to excellence and innovation, as shown by our exceptional staff and students who consistently deliver outstanding results. We look forward to further success at next year’s awards.
