Lucy Ferre, energy and carbon manager at the University of Chichester, has been named Sustainable Champion of the Year in recognition of her work leading the university’s sustainability team.

Organised and presented by the Chichester Observer and Midhurst & Petworth Observer, the Chichester and District Business Awards 2026 took place on Monday (November 2) at Chichester Festival Theatre. They celebrated and commended the wide range of fantastic businesses across Chichester and its neighbouring areas, with 11 awards to be won.

Her responsibilities cover a broad range of environmental initiatives, including monitoring utilities, managing energy systems and developing sustainability strategies.

She also oversees sustainable projects, reporting, procurement and compliance, while helping to build awareness and encourage collaboration across the university.

Lucy Ferre, energy and carbon manager at the University of Chichester, has been named Sustainable Champion of the Year in recognition of her work leading the university's sustainability team. Photo: Hollie Robards / Iconic Media Group.

placeholder image — Lucy Ferre, energy and carbon manager at the University of Chichester, has been named Sustainable Champion of the Year in recognition of her work leading the university's sustainability team. Photo: Hollie Robards / Iconic Media Group.

The award recognises her work behind the scenes to support the institution’s sustainability ambitions and reduce its environmental impact.

Lucy said: “It’s really nice that the university’s work in sustainability has been recognised, because we put a lot of effort into it. It’s great that we can put our work into the community in this way, and be recognised as part of Chichester and not just as a university.

"We have some great local partnerships with charities like UK Harvest, and it’s really great they were highly commended.”