21st May 2025
South Devon College is very proud to be once again recognised for its sustainability efforts, after winning the ‘Planet Saver’ award from Devon Chamber of Commerce!
Winning the accolade, as part of the annual Devon Business Awards, is yet another amazing achievement in the College’s commitment to being at the forefront of sustainability action and the green skills landscape.
The ‘Planet Saver’ award, in partnership with GA Solicitors, recognises organisations with sustainability at the heart of their business. According to the Chamber “they are fully committed to sustainable best practice and making the world a better and safer place”.

It is safe to say there is no doubt South Devon College is fully committed to sustainable best practice in all its forms – social, environmental and economic. It is truly at the heart of everything it does, from the curriculum the students receive, aligning with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals, to the updating and protecting of campus locations used every day by hundreds of students and staff.
The College’s goal is that every student completes their learner journey with a clear understanding of what sustainability is and how they have a part to play in building a healthy community vision.
Matt Green, Head of Commercial Services & Sustainability at South Devon College, said: “Our ambition is to seamlessly weave sustainability into everything we do. We are committed to bringing sustainable thinking to life, informing our students, developing knowledge, skills and behaviours and understanding so they know how to lead sustainable lives now and in the future, becoming great global citizens with meaning and impact.”
The College’s sustainability enterprises are not new – it has been working on these for the past 15 years. From the installation of solar panels on the campus buildings and air source heat pumps, saving 335 tonnes of carbon per annum and completely negating the use of fossil fuels for heating across the College, to procuring its first ‘Zero to Landfill’ waste contract in 2014, a ground-breaking approach for an FE College at that time, it has always been looking at innovative ways to fulfil, and exceed, its sustainability responsibilities.
These initiatives and advances, on top of an active 10-year Sustainability Strategy, ensure the College is making a demonstrable impact on local, regional, national and even global sustainability.
David Wallis, Managing Partner at GA Solicitors and Patron of Devon and Plymouth Chamber of Commerce, presented the award to the College. He commented:
“I had the real privilege of judging what I think is the top category at this year’s Business Awards. The winner of this category stood head and shoulders above the rest, impressing me with an outstanding application that clearly demonstrated how businesses both large and small can truly make a difference.
“Their submission was detailed, inspiring and a testament to thoughtful action. In fact their annual Sustainability Report was so impressive one felt it could serve as a model for all organisations, showcasing not only what they’ve already accomplished but also a bold clear vision for the future.
“What shines through most of all is their deep passion for the environment and sustainability – a passion that radiates throughout the community, influencing both students and staff alike. Exceptional work and a shining example for us all.”
This award follows two previous national awards – in 2022 the College won the first ever AOC (Association of Colleges) National Beacon Award – Education for Sustainable Development, and late last year it was awarded the prestigious National Green Gown Award for Sustainability Institution of the Year, presented by the EAUC (Environmental Association of Universities and Colleges).
Laurence Frewin, Principal and CEO of South Devon College, said: “It is an honour to receive the ‘Planet Saver’ award, and is testament to the continuing work the College has been doing in striving for sustainability success.
“We are proud to be recognised within the community we serve. We take our responsibilities towards our planet very seriously and it’s always a wonderful accolade to see our hard work recognised. We will continue to put sustainability education at the heart of our College for generations to come.”