In the first quarter of 2024, the University continued to make progress in its sustainability agenda, achieving the following milestones across its campuses.
Carbon Literacy Training rolled out to all staff and students and the wider community
On Monday 4 December 2023, Staffordshire University hosted a Big Community Carbon Literacy Day at its Stoke-on-Trent campus.
This event was part of the University’s civic responsibility and its commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
From January 2024, Staffordshire University rolled out the opportunity for all staff and students to attend bespoke Carbon Literacy Training, accredited by the Carbon Literacy Project, to help create a carbon-zero world.
Staffordshire University researchers create free climate change game
In My Boat is a fun and competitive card game that challenges players to outsmart their rivals and build the most resilient ecosystem. The game, although intended for all, is primarily aimed at school pupils aged 10-15 and is available for free.
Dr David White, Senior Lecturer in Games and Visual Effects, said: “It has been recognised that climate change is under-taught in schools, and this project provides an educational resource for teachers which also addresses growing 'eco-anxiety' recorded in young people.
“We want the game to be accessible to everyone, and so it can be download for free from our website and printed.”
Staffordshire University’s Student Village given green light
The plans for the new Student Village, on the University’s Leek Road site, detail the construction of more than 700 new student rooms in a mix of cluster blocks and townhouses, plus the refurbishment of the University’s Clarice Cliff Court accommodation which currently houses just under 300 students.
A village ‘hub’ facility will also be built as part of the development, enhancing the vibrancy of the student experience with an events and wellbeing space, individual and group study areas and multi-activity spaces, as well as a rooftop terrace with an outdoor seating area.
Sally McGill, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Lead for Sustainability at Staffordshire University, added: “The plans for the Student Village blend contemporary sustainable architecture with high quality facilities and would add significantly to our overall student experience.”
The University’s existing accommodation on Leek Road will be demolished to make way for new parkland and open spaces which would be accessible by the local community, as well as students and staff.
Stop Food Waste Day embraced on campus
Staff and students came together to mark Stop Food Waste Day on Wednesday 24 April 2024, a global awareness day dedicated to reducing food waste.
Schemes such as our involvement with the Too Good to Go app and the Students’ Union’s Zero Waste sections within their outlets were promoted throughout he University community, and staff and students were encouraged to try out tips and recipes to help them reduce their own personal food waste at home.