Carbon Literacy Training

Purpose

The Carbon Literacy Programme, funded by DAERA, is designed to actively involve young people in conversations surrounding climate change. It serves not only as an engagement platform but also as an initial step towards fostering essential actions in carbon reduction behaviours and community initiatives.

Participation

Commencing in October 2022, the UUBS Sustainability Team have facilitated the Carbon Literacy Programme. This was initially tailored for UUBS students but was later expanded to include all staff and students across Ulster University. To date, over 300 individuals within Ulster University Business School have engaged in the programme. This initiative incorporates a blend of self-study and online meetings, providing a platform for open conversations about climate change. The programme delves into various topics, including the challenges and behavioural aspects of climate change, climate risks and opportunities specific to Northern Ireland, as well as the global and local policy responses.

Impact

The Carbon Literacy training programme has allowed participants to acquire knowledge and develop a sense of agency and optimism towards climate solutions. Throughout the programme attendees explore actionable steps they can take, both individually and, collectively, making pledges to reduce their carbon footprint. Recognised by the Carbon Literacy Project, the programme awards participants an EU-recognised Carbon Literacy certificate upon successful completion.

One participant expressed, “In doing the carbon literacy training, I was able to learn everything from why climate change matters to what we can do about it. It's not just a lecture, it's a conversation where students and staff can share their thoughts and ideas.”

Contact

Dr Caroline Morrison

Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME)

Purpose

Integrating sustainability into courses, modules or even single sessions does not have to be complicated. It can range from an entire module to a session or simply linking sustainable development to something that is already happening – it’s an easy and rewarding opportunity!

Participation

Dr Marc Duffy has led the process of re-accrediting our modules in UUBS/Business Engagement Unit and has rolled our Sustainability Modules/PRME on behalf of the school.  These modules represent the first at UUBS at Undergraduate Level to be wholly dedicated to sustainable development (Sustainable Business Environment and Responsible and Ethical Business Practice).

Impact

Dr Marc Duffy would be keen to work with and support academics, and course directors to roll out similar developments in their programmes or modules. On behalf of the sustainability committee, we have a range of materials and support available for anyone with similar goals and aspirations.

Contact

Dr Marc Duffy