Universities and colleges collaborate for a net zero future
University and college leaders united to tackle sustainability challenges and pathways to net-zero emissions
We recently hosted a two-part event series titled Transforming Education for a Sustainable Tomorrow, bringing together leaders from universities and colleges across England to explore strategies for achieving net-zero emissions. The events provided a platform for knowledge sharing, where experts offered valuable insights and real-world examples of decarbonising campus estates.
Attendees participated in presentations, workshops, and panel discussions focused on best practices, challenges, and opportunities in the journey toward sustainability. The event was chaired by Ian Rodger, director of programmes, with contributions from the Universities and Colleges team, as well as the Energy and Carbon Technical team.
Event highlights:
- Expert presentations: sharing strategies and case studies around sustainability
- Workshops: encouraging collaboration on solutions for public sector decarbonisation projects
- Panel discussions: exploring the successes and challenges in decarbonising estates
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Jim Kirby, internal energy consultant at Priory Federation of Academies Trust; Chris Baker, physics teacher and IC energy efficiency at Parrs Wood High School; Lachlan Fulton, head of environment and sustainability at Manchester Metropolitan University; and the team at University of the West of England, including Melissa Clark, energy project manager, Kirsti Norris, energy manager, and Dave Roffey, director of projects and sustainability at Bedford College. We also want to thank Giles Greenfield, second bursar at Darwin College, for their invaluable contributions and insights throughout the series.
Your expertise and dedication were instrumental in making these events such a success, and we greatly appreciate your participation.
The event concluded with a live Q&A session, where attendees had the opportunity to engage directly with experts and peers, fostering a collaborative spirit.
"I would like to say a huge thank you to Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of the West of England for hosting our two events for the higher and further education sector. It was a privilege to meet so many passionate professionals and engage in thought-provoking discussions on the challenges and opportunities in the journey to net zero."