Leicester College declares support for tackling climate emergency

Leicester College is joining a growing number of universities and colleges in their commitment to the Race to Zero initiative, with the aim of reaching net zero status by 2030, in line with global efforts to limit warming to 1.5⁰C.

To support this pledge, Leicester College is working to the Climate Action Roadmap for Further Education (FE) Colleges, proposed by the Climate Commission and Nous Group. The roadmap is a framework based on best practice to help FE colleges reach net zero emissions and embed sustainability into their future plans, whilst encouraging a commitment to work to combat climate change amongst students, staff and stakeholders.

The College will roll out a series of activities for the duration of COP26 which includes the launch of a sustainability web page and brand, campaigns and social media messaging, along with staff and student surveys to gather their views on sustainability. They will also be encouraged to make a pledge to reduce their personal carbon use.

In addition, T level Engineering students working with The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership, employers and other corporations that focus on energy efficiency and sustainable technologies, will be able to attend a virtual Future Faradays event, delivered by National Electrotechnical Training (NET) on 17 November.

Sustainability is one of the core values in the College’s new strategic plan. As part of this objective, it has identified a series of priorities including the introduction of carbon literacy programmes for students, a review of the curriculum to identify opportunities to address sustainability and climate issues, as well as embedding sustainability within the students’ personal, social and development programmes.

Verity Hancock, Principal and CEO of Leicester College, said: “Climate change is arguably one of the most serious threats that the planet has ever faced. With a commitment to ensuring the welfare of our staff and student bodies, both now and in the future, Leicester College has declared its support for tackling the climate emergency and is committed to tackling this issue in whatever ways we can.

“We are proud to play our part by working to the Climate Action Roadmap as a way to fulfil our own responsibilities to alleviate the threat posed by the global environmental crisis. This is a major step forward which will be welcomed by the College community of students and staff.”