Eco-Lighthouse
In 2022, we began the journey toward Eco-Lighthouse certification for SiO. Our headquarters, the Domus Athletica gym, and our student housing are already certified. By 2024, all of SiO will be certified.
As part of the Eco-Lighthouse work, we are establishing a climate account. Our ambition is to cut emissions by 50% by 2030 and to be close to net zero by 2050.
So far, SiO’s climate accounting shows that student housing energy use is our largest footprint. In 2023, we investigated greener energy solutions and energy efficiency measures to reduce this footprint.
Business for Climate
SiO has joined Oslo Municipality’s Business for Climate network. The agreement was signed in June 2023.
Eco-friendly student housing and sustainable construction
SiO continues to build new student housing, with a strong focus on environment and sustainability.
Studenthouses in sustainable timber
Several student houses at Kringsjå Student Village are built in cross-laminated timber, an environmentally friendly material. These houses are also part of the Futurebuilt-project, which significantly reduces emissions from transport, energy, and materials. The new family housing at Kringsjå produces more energy during its lifetime than was used in the production of building materials, construction, operation, and demolition.
Solar and geothermal energy for student housing
Solar panels on roofs and walls at Kringsjå provide enough electricity to make buildings self-sufficient during parts of the year. We also use geothermal energy from the village’s own wells, mainly to heat water.
Member of the Green Building Alliance
SiO is a member of Norway’s Green Building Alliance Green Building Alliance and has committed to the 10 recommended actions in their Roadmap to 2050, aiming for greener housing operations and construction.
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Sustainable food offerings at SiO Food and Drink
We are committed to reducing our environmental footprint. SiO Food and Drink focuses on cutting food waste and using recyclable packaging. Read more here!
58 tons of food saved in 2023
Our staff do their best to avoid food waste, using whole vegetables, making broths, and redistributing ingredients. Youfood like hot food and salad by weight, helps reduce waste by letting students choose exactly what they eat.
Green Buffet
We lowered the price of plant-based food. Our experience shows that students choose more climate-friendly food when it’s cheaper and sold by weight. This project has been highlighted in Norway’s public procurement example bank example bank for sustainable and innovative initiatives. 🥦
Organic coffee in our cafeterias
We now serve Green World Organic Coffee, Debio-certified Debio-certified and grown without chemical pesticides or artificial fertilizers.
We signed the Green Commitment (Grøntløftet)
This national initiative promotes Norwegian fruit and vegetables. It supports our goal of offering healthy and tasty plant-based meals to students.
Food waste well below industry average
In 2023, our 32 student dining venues reduced food waste to 12.3 grams per guest—one-third of the industry average of 39 grams.
Reuse shop at Kringsjå Student Village
SiO opened a reuse shop to help students furnish their homes sustainably. Many items from moving students are donated and given away for free to others. The shop is student-run and unique—all items are free.
Events with a sustainability focus
Spring bike workshop & tune-up
Partnering with the City of Oslo and the Norwegian Public Roads Administration, we help students maintain their bikes and promote cycling as a green option.
Reuse festival at Kringsjå
Each year, students can donate furniture and household items, which are then given away to new students.
Clothing swap at Union Blindern
Students swap unused clothes. Repair stations help extend the life of garments in creative ways.
Social sustainability
SiO cares deeply about students’ well-being. According to the SHoT 2022 survey, many students struggle with loneliness and mental health challenges. That’s why we create social spaces where students can connect and have fun. Examples include game nights, quizzes, and movie nights at Union Blindern, as well as speed-friending events to help students make new friends.