Category: Climate Change (Page 1 of 10)

Get involved in climate and sustainability action at King’s  

Are you interested in all things sustainable and want to make a positive impact whilst at King’s? The King’s Climate & Sustainability team have a range of volunteering opportunities, events and resources to help you learn more about and take collective action on climate and sustainability. 

Sign up for the Sustainability newsletter and follow King’s Sustainability on Instagram and Twitter for all updates. 

There are also KCLSU student groups dedicated to sustainability such as the Climate Action Society, Eco Soc and the Vegetarian & Vegan Society. 

Find out how to get involved below or view all opportunities here. 

  

Learn and boost your CV: Sustainability module and seminar series 

The KEATS module on Sustainability & Climate is an open-access and interdisciplinary module covering the biggest topics in sustainability, from climate change and food to sustainable finance and social justice. Fully co-created by a Take Action Team of students, staff and alumni, it is a module that is designed by the King’s community, for the King’s community. The module aims not just to equip you with sustainability knowledge, but to help you develop the agency to take action on the issues that most concern you.  

To boost your employability, you can gain a King’s Experience Champion for Change Award upon module completion, which goes on your Higher Education Achievement Report (HEAR) that you receive when you graduate from King’s.  

A Sustainability Seminar Series accompanies the module and runs monthly between October and July with seminars from climate justice to sustainable economics.  

Register online to keep updated.  

  

Take collective action: King’s Climate Action Network 

The King’s Climate Action Network (CAN) is an open forum bringing together more than 400 people from the King’s community who are passionate about climate action. It is a place to foster innovation, brainstorm new ideas and discuss what action King’s needs to take to reach our targets.  

By joining the King’s CAN, you will get an opportunity to hear from stakeholders about progress in theme-specific sessions, discuss fresh ideas and get a chance to implement them through the Sustainability Projects Fund.  

Find out more and join the King’s CAN. 

  

Make a difference: Volunteer for sustainability  

Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community and the King’s Climate & Sustainability team offer exciting opportunities to help drive sustainability and gain valuable employability skills.  

You can become an ambassador raising sustainability awareness across King’s, a Sustainability Champions Assistant supporting staff teams to make their work environments more sustainable, and much more.  

Check out all opportunities on King’s Volunteering platform (look for: King’s Climate & Sustainability) 

  

Learn & take action: King’s Climate & Sustainability Month 

King’s Climate & Sustainability Month takes place every year in February, offering you an opportunity to learn more about sustainability topics, collaborate and connect with others from across King’s and take action on the climate crisis. The month includes an inter-university London Student Sustainability Conference with an opportunity to showcase your sustainability project or research to a London-wide audience.  

Interested in organising an event? That is possible! King’s Climate & Sustainability Month includes exciting social and educational events organised by people from across the King’s community focused on one or more of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).  

Subscribe to the newsletter to keep updated 

  

Discover: Spotlight on Sustainability podcast 

The King’s Spotlight on Sustainability podcast aims to draw attention to sustainability at King’s and beyond. The goal is to get you thinking about some of the issues and challenges we face regarding climate change and the natural world by highlighting the excellent work on sustainability happening at King’s and on local, national and global levels. 

Start listening online 

  

Climate and sustainability ambitions and progress  

King’s Climate & Sustainability Action Plan was developed in consultation with students, staff and alumni members of the King’s CAN and went live in February 2023. The plan sets new targets across 13 key impact areas, including at least a 25% reduction in carbon emissions by 2025 and a 50% reduction by 2030 across energy use, business travel, our supply chain, commuting and waste. The plan includes a 2030 net zero target and prioritises the absolute reduction of carbon emissions over offsetting and carbon removals.  

Our annual Environmental Sustainability Reports summarise the efforts made by the entire King’s community to make the university more sustainable: from managing our estates and providing sustainable food to engaging with our local communities and driving Education for Sustainability. Have a look – we hope it inspires you to take action on climate and sustainability, whatever your role within or beyond King’s! 

  

We’d love to hear from you! 

If you want to set up your own sustainability project, you have any ideas or feedback to share, or you would like us to promote any of your initiatives, please get in touch with the team: sustainability@kcl.ac.uk 

King’s progress in responsible investment

The Ethical Investment Policy commits King’s to making no direct investments in tobacco, divesting from all fossil fuel investments and investing 40 per cent of its funds in investments with socially responsible benefits by 2025.

In 2021, King’s fully divested from fossil fuels almost two years ahead of target and since 2023, armaments are also excluded from investments. King’s conducts ethical screening for cash deposits, which excludes companies that generate over 10% of their turnover from armament, tobacco and/or fossil fuels.

In 2022–23, we also met our commitment to invest 40 per cent of funds in investments with a positive purpose two years early and King’s only purchases green bonds to raise debt. We have invested £44 million in the Northern Trust’s World Green Transition Index Fund, which not only screens out fossil fuel producers and the worst 10 per cent of companies by carbon emissions intensity but also has a positive ‘tilt’ towards companies that generate ‘green’ revenue, such as energy efficiency and alternative energy. We also have £14 million invested in RobecoSAM’s Sustainable Water Strategy, which invests in companies with innovative technologies and products across the water value chain that will help deal with the issue of water scarcity. During the year, £10 million was invested in the Polar Capital Smart Energy Fund, which invests in companies involved with clean power distribution, energy transmission and distribution, energy conversion and storage, and energy efficiency. £8 million was also invested in the GMO Climate Change Select Investment Fund, which invests in companies dealing with clean energy, batteries and storage, electric grid and energy efficiency.

The Ethical Investment Policy is due to be reviewed in 2023–24, which will provide an opportunity to work with the Finance Team to set new targets and further embed responsible investment principles in our policy.

Climate change: why the risks are so hard to understand (and what we can do about it)

This blog post was written by Kautuk Chaddha (he/him), Project Change Manager at King’s, member of the King’s Climate Action Network and Sustainability Champions group.


Art created using DALL·E 2.

The Complexity of Climate Change: Navigating a Global Puzzle

Climate change, a topic as vast as the world itself, can often feel like trying to solve a mind-bending puzzle. It is a conundrum that combines the intricate threads of mathematics, physics, chemistry, economics, social science, geography, earth science, data analysis, and countless other disciplines, and can often feel overwhelming. It can also sometimes feel distant and complex, shrouded in scientific jargon and expert opinions. But here’s the truth: understanding climate change is not reserved for the select few or confined to scientific circles. It’s a global challenge that demands our collective attention and action. In today’s world, where the impacts of climate change are increasingly evident, it has become imperative for everyone to take the initiative to understand this pressing global issue. Why? Because climate change affects us all, regardless of our background or beliefs. It poses risks to our environment, economy, health, and overall well-being. By gaining a deeper understanding of climate change, we equip ourselves with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions and take meaningful action. It allows us to engage in informed conversations, advocate for sustainable solutions, and contribute to a more resilient future. Moreover, understanding climate change fosters a sense of interconnectedness, recognising that our choices and actions have far-reaching consequences, not only for ourselves but for future generations. By collectively embracing the responsibility to comprehend climate change, we empower ourselves to be part of the solution, driving positive change and creating a world that is safer, more sustainable, and prosperous for all.

Below are six of the most common reasons why people fail to understand the risks posed by climate change:

The risks are often framed in technical terms:

The communication surrounding climate change risks often involves technical language and complex terminology. This can present a challenge for individuals to fully grasp and comprehend the risks involved. Scientific reports and discussions by organisations like the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) may use specialised jargon that can be difficult for non-experts to understand. As a result, it becomes important to bridge this gap and translate technical concepts into accessible language, enabling a wider audience to engage with and comprehend the risks associated with climate change. By using clear and concise communication strategies, we can ensure that climate change risks are conveyed in a way that resonates with people from diverse backgrounds and facilitates their understanding and participation in addressing this pressing issue. When communicating about climate change risks, it’s crucial to use language of everyday and one that resonates with people from diverse backgrounds. Avoiding excessive jargons and instead employing relatable examples, metaphors, and analogies that draw upon everyday experiences. By relating climate change risks to familiar situations, we can make the topic more accessible and encourage broader participation in addressing this critical issue. Transforming technical concepts into visual representations can also be a game-changer. Infographics, charts, and illustrations can convey complex information in a simple and engaging manner.

The risks are often distant in time and space (and sometimes invisible to the naked eye):

Climate change risks often play hide-and-seek, testing our ability to connect the dots across time and space, while remaining invisible to the naked eye. Picture this: the full impact of climate change may not be immediately obvious, as it unfolds gradually over years and affects diverse corners of the world. This means that it can be challenging for us to see how our own lives are intertwined with the far-reaching consequences of climate change. For instance, consider the gradual loss of coral reefs due to ocean acidification — an almost invisible process to most, but one that threatens entire marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of coastal communities.  Connecting the dots between our personal experiences and the broader consequences of climate change can be a challenge. We might not see the direct link between a heatwave in our hometown and the rising global temperatures, or how deforestation on the other side of the world affects our local ecosystem. But make no mistake, the web of climate change weaves through our lives, leaving no one untouched. Think of changes in rainfall patterns, disruptions to ecosystems, or subtle shifts in temperature that occur over extended periods, often slipping under our radar. By unravelling the puzzle of these elusive risks and bringing them into focus, we can empower everyone to grasp the urgency and take meaningful action in the face of this global challenge.

People hold different values:

When it comes to climate change, each person’s unique set of values can shape how they perceive and respond to the issue. Our values reflect what we hold dear in life, whether it’s our family, friends, community, nature, or even economic prosperity. Let’s take a moment to explore how these values can influence our understanding of climate change. Imagine someone who deeply values their family and community. For them, the impact of climate change on their loved ones and local community becomes a significant concern. They may see climate change as a threat to the well-being and future of their family, prompting them to take action. Now consider another individual who places great importance on nature and the environment. They might be deeply moved by the irreversible loss of wildlife habitats or the destruction of pristine landscapes due to climate change. For them, the urgency to address climate change stems from a moral obligation to protect the natural world we rely on. On the other hand, some people may prioritise economic growth and innovation. They might be concerned about the potential costs of addressing climate change or worry that stringent regulations could stifle progress. They might view the issue through the lens of finding economically viable solutions and technological advancements. It’s crucial to recognise that these values can differ across cultures and countries. In the Global South, where communities are tightly connected and rely on one another, the focus is often on the well-being of the collective and building resilience within local communities. Picture close-knit neighbourhoods supporting each other through thick and thin. On the flip side, in the Global North, there’s a stronger emphasis on individual freedoms and pursuing economic growth. Imagine a society where personal choices and economic progress are highly valued. These contrasting perspectives stem from the unique cultural and societal values of each region, shaping how they approach the challenge of climate change. Understanding these variations helps us appreciate the diverse perspectives on climate change and enables us to find common ground for meaningful discussions. By acknowledging and respecting these different values, we can engage in inclusive conversations about climate change that resonate with people from all walks of life. It’s about finding shared aspirations and connecting climate action to what matters most to individuals, whether it’s safeguarding their families, preserving nature’s wonders, or fostering economic prosperity. When we understand and appreciate the values that underpin our diverse perspectives, we can bridge gaps, inspire action, and collectively address the challenges of climate change.

The issue is politicised:

Climate change has unfortunately become a highly politicised issue, with politicians sometimes putting their own interests ahead of the urgent need for action. It’s disheartening to witness how some politicians treat climate change as a mere game, using it as a tool to score political points or advance their personal agendas, rather than actively seeking tangible solutions. Their actions, or lack thereof, can leave people feeling frustrated, unheard, and disillusioned. Consider a scenario where politicians deny or downplay the impact of climate change in order to cater to certain interest groups or secure short-term gains. Such actions not only undermine the urgent need for climate action but also perpetuate the division and confusion surrounding the issue. This politicisation hampers progress and obstructs the collective effort required to combat climate change effectively. However, here’s the essential truth: the effects of climate change do not discriminate based on political ideologies or party affiliations. They transcend boundaries and affect all of us, regardless of our beliefs. Think about the increasingly frequent and severe extreme weather events we witness, such as devastating floods, prolonged droughts, or scorching heatwaves. These events disrupt communities, endanger lives, and strain infrastructure, irrespective of political stances. To overcome the politicisation of climate change, it is crucial for us to hold politicians accountable and demand that they prioritise the well-being of both people and the planet over short-term gains or political games. We have the power to make our voices heard and drive meaningful change. By supporting politicians who genuinely prioritise climate action and sustainability, we can ensure our concerns are represented in decision-making processes. Additionally, joining grassroots movements, engaging in peaceful protests, and advocating for stronger policies can amplify our collective voice and inspire politicians to take decisive action. Climate change is a complex challenge that requires collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. We need our elected leaders to focus on finding practical, science-backed strategies that address the immediate and long-term impacts of climate change. By doing so, we can create a future where the health of our planet and the well-being of all people, irrespective of political affiliations, are prioritised.

People are not always motivated to act:

When it comes to addressing climate change, one of the significant challenges we face is that people are not always motivated to take action. The urgency and complexity of the issue can sometimes feel overwhelming, leading to a sense of helplessness or complacency. People may be preoccupied with their daily lives, juggling various responsibilities and priorities, making it difficult for climate change to take centre stage. Moreover, the consequences of climate change can often seem distant or abstract, making it challenging for individuals to connect their own actions to the larger global impact. Consider a situation where individuals are aware of climate change but struggle to translate that awareness into meaningful action. They might acknowledge the need for sustainable practices but find it challenging to break old habits or make significant lifestyle changes. It’s crucial to recognise that motivations vary from person to person and are influenced by a range of factors such as personal values, beliefs, and life circumstances. To address this motivational gap, we need to inspire and empower individuals to take action. One approach is to emphasise the personal benefits and positive impacts of sustainable choices. Highlighting how adopting renewable energy sources can reduce energy bills or how cycling to work can improve personal health not only creates individual incentives but also contributes to the broader climate change mitigation efforts. Additionally, fostering a sense of community and collective responsibility can help motivate individuals. Encouraging people to participate in local environmental initiatives, join community gardens, or engage in climate-focused events can create a supportive network and foster a sense of purpose. Education and awareness also play a crucial role in motivating action. By providing accessible and reliable information about the impacts of climate change, the benefits of sustainable practices, and the opportunities for positive change, we can inspire individuals to make informed choices. Sharing success stories of individuals and communities who have taken action can also serve as powerful examples and inspire others to follow suit. Ultimately, overcoming the motivation barrier requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the unique concerns and aspirations of individuals. By recognising the diverse motivations and tailoring our messaging and strategies accordingly, we can create a supportive environment that encourages and empowers everyone to take meaningful action in the fight against climate change. Together, we can unleash the collective potential to create a sustainable and resilient future for ourselves and future generations.

The solutions are often complex and expensive:

When it comes to tackling climate change, it’s crucial to acknowledge that the solutions are often complex and require substantial investments. Transitioning to a low-carbon economy and implementing sustainable practices involves extensive planning, technological advancements, and significant financial resources. This complexity can make it seem daunting and unattainable for individuals and communities to contribute meaningfully to the solutions. For instance, shifting to renewable energy sources requires substantial infrastructure development, research and development, and policy support. Implementing energy-efficient technologies and practices in industries and households necessitates changes in behaviour and investments in new equipment and systems. Additionally, addressing deforestation, promoting sustainable agriculture, and transitioning to circular economy models all require comprehensive approaches that involve multiple stakeholders and require long-term commitment. However, despite the challenges, it’s important to recognise that there are pathways towards a sustainable future. The complexity and cost of solutions should not discourage us from taking action. Instead, we can approach the task by breaking it down into manageable steps and focusing on areas where we can make a difference. One key aspect is promoting innovation and technological advancements. Investing in research and development can lead to the discovery of new clean technologies, making them more accessible and affordable over time. By supporting and advocating for policies that incentivise clean energy and sustainable practices, we can accelerate the adoption of these solutions. Furthermore, fostering collaboration between governments, businesses, communities, and universities is essential. Universities play a crucial role in conducting research, providing expertise, and educating the next generation of leaders in sustainability. Through interdisciplinary studies and partnerships with other stakeholders, universities contribute to the development and dissemination of knowledge, driving forward sustainable solutions. Importantly, while large-scale actions are necessary, individual choices and actions also matter. Each of us can contribute to the solutions in our own capacity by adopting sustainable lifestyles, reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting environmentally responsible businesses. Small changes, when multiplied by collective efforts, can have a significant positive impact. By recognising the complexity and cost of solutions, we can approach the task with a combination of ambition, collaboration, innovation, and the expertise of universities. By harnessing the collective will and resources, we can unlock the potential to create a sustainable future for generations to come.

 

In conclusion, climate change is a pressing global challenge that demands our collective attention and action. It’s not just for scientists or a select few—it affects us all. Understanding climate change empowers us to make informed decisions, engage in meaningful conversations, and advocate for sustainable solutions. By bridging the gap between technical language and accessible communication, we ensure that climate change risks are understood by people from diverse backgrounds. Connecting personal experiences to the broader consequences fosters a sense of interconnectedness, encouraging wider participation in finding solutions. Recognising different values and perspectives allows for inclusive discussions that resonate worldwide. Overcoming the politicisation of climate change requires holding politicians accountable and prioritising the well-being of both people and the planet. Motivating action involves highlighting the personal benefits of sustainable choices, fostering community and collective responsibility, and promoting education and awareness. Though solutions may be complex and costly, they are within reach. By supporting innovation, collaboration, and individual actions, we can pave the way towards a sustainable and resilient future. Together, we can make a difference.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead

Listening at The Big One and reflections from a King’s student

This blog post was written by Wendy Whittall, studying the Climate Change – Environment, Science & Policy MSc at King’s.


Someone talking on a stageI was watching the Reverend Billy and the Stop Shopping Choir on the main stage. The Choir had not made the stage, maybe not even the UK, so we (a melange of protesters, environmentalists, protectors and activists at The Big One) watched hypnotised by the Revered Billy with his Elvis-style white shock of hair, dog collar and shiny, bright pink suit who had arrived from NY to give us an impassioned talk about the Earth which was interspersed with him singing enthusiastically…. Earth-a-lujah, Earth-a-lujah.

Earlier in the day, it was trying to rain when I had met up at the COVID memorial wall, the heart-covered wall on the Westminster side of the bridge, with members of thGroup picture of listening teame King’s Climate Action Network and South London Citizens to carry out a Listening Project on the first day, Friday 21st April, of The Big One, the four-day marathon XR event which had attracted over 200 organisations. The event was a change of tactics to be family-friendly, educational and fun with the hope of creating momentum to end all new government fossil-fuel licences.

 3 people holding up banners

I joined up with Paulina and Jone to chat with several people to find out their reasons for coming to The Big One. Our first conversation was with a worker who, with her large board, had taken the day off to protest against the government’s inability to push through the Buildings Bill which, if passed, would reduce dramatically the 50mt of carbon emission by the UK construction industry.

We then spoke to two lovely well-dressed ladies, one had graffitied the back of her expensive coat and re-Two people standing below a green umbrellaengineered a green umbrella for the occasion, who had never been to an XR event beforehand and were motivated to attend as they understood it would be peaceful. They had arrived to support XR’s initiative to keep a future for their grandchildren. We also spoke to a couple of new sustainable businesses and long-time activists from Brighton.

Family holding up bannersWhilst we were watching the XR parade which included lots of drummers and spooky-looking people dressed head-to-toe in lipstick red floaty dresses, we met a young family from London whose boys had made their own banners, one stating “Don’t Wreck our Future” and the other “Don’t Throw it Away”.

Big ben and parade of people wearing red costumesAfter we had all gathered for a debrief of the project and left to go our separate ways, I continued down the length of Milbank dotted with many pop-up marquees à la festival including activists from Climate Justice, Greenpeace and Doctors and Psychologists were represented plus different forms of art activities. I was interested in talking to the Climate Fresk promoters, a collaborative workshop teaching the science of climate change based on the IPCC reports motivating a wider understanding of the problem.

To my delight I met, at the Climate Fresk stand, some environmentalists who had arrived from several different countries in Europe, Sweden, Germany & Belgium to name a few, to attend all four days. I People holding up flagsspoke to a doctor from Germany who had arrived by coach with 50 other passionate environmentalists. He had in the past organised climate-related events and was at The Big One to understand the positives and negatives of the event to create a similar event in Germany. His motivation was the experience of heat exposure during the summer months, and how the media does not talk about the number of deaths in the elderly, the young and the vulnerable, over 8,000 in 2022. He said that Germany had already passed the 1.5C IPCC bar and that the summers are longer and hotter. He also spoke about adequate wind farm energy for the entire country but due to an archaic law, whereby, if there is surplus energy being produced the energy is reduced by ‘switching off’ the newest (renewable) energy, thereby leaving coal as the burning, polluting energy source. He also acknowledged that the Greens, in the coalition German government, had sold out politically.

And it was about then when the Reverend Billy entered on stage. It had stopped raining, the sun was out, and there was the heavy scent of patchouli and the faint whiff of weed in the air. After the final and rousing Earth-a-lujah, Earth-a-lujah, I wended my way back down Milbank to Westminster tube.Person holding up an earth craft

I hadn’t gone far when I met up with the Mothers’ Climate Action Network with one of the mums dressed in an eye-catching French blue sequinned trouser-suit together with a turquoise bobbed wig all framed by a massive globe that she wore like a giant circular wing.

Two people holding up plants and craftsJust a bit further on I met two lovely ladies carrying a gorgeous-smelling wreath made that morning in one of their workshops. Each flower and stick of herb that had been added to the wreath had a prayer attached and the following day, Earth Day, they were going to hold a service by the Thames and return the wreath to the Earth by floating it on the Thames and releasing all the prayers to the world.

Over the weekend, I attended a couple (6 hours worth) of Climate Fresk workshops in Canada Water where I met Ruth, who had been an XR Steward. I offered to return her aprons to The Big One on Sunday, and while doing so, I was persuaded to stay for a 10-minute Climate Justice comedy sessionWall painting by Kate Smurthwaite (www.linktr.ee/katesmurthwaite). Big shout out.

The Big One was an interesting and wonderful event that brought people together, those that have voiced on our behalf for years and those who would not have normally attended an event, speaking for our future. There were the loud and passionate Earth-a-lujahs to the quiet and spiritual wreath laying of our prayers. All of us whether loud, angry, hopeful, funny, spiritual or sad were all there for the same aim. It was a mess of emotions in a world of business as usual on a warming planet.


This listening exercise was carried out as part of a climate listening campaign being carried out by King’s Climate Action Network in collaboration with South London CitizensThe campaign brings together community members through a community organising approach and invites them to talk about issues related to climate change they care about and reflect on why they are important to them. By listening to and connecting with people, the campaign aims to build our collective power and create a local climate movement that puts our communities’ concerns first.

Student experience volunteering at the London Student Sustainability Conference 2023

This guest blog post was written by Elisabeth Möhlenkamp, first-year English Law and German Law student at King’s College London and volunteer at LSSC23.


LSSC23 student volunteers from various universities.

This year’s annual London Student Sustainability Conference (LSSC) was a collaboration between ten of London’s universities, offering a space for student-led talks, workshops, conversations, and presentations centered around the UN Sustainable Development Goals. As one of many volunteers helping ensure the day ran smoothly, I was intrigued to see how the conference would effectuate convergence between the differing ideas and perspectives on sustainability.

I am a first-year English Law and German Law student at King’s College London, and up until my final year, where I can choose to specialize in a particular area of law, I do not think my course will cover climate justice and the law in any great depth (although I will have to see). z. However, I have a profound personal interest in climate justice (which was one of my main motivations to apply to law school in the first place). As a result, I aim to take advantage of as many opportunities as possible to engage with people who work in sustainability, who can teach me about new developments, who can demonstrate how sustainability is incorporated into various fields of study, research, and jobs. I volunteered at the LSSC conference to meet coordinators and students who shared my interest in climate justice and sustainability more broadly. I wanted to listen to the talks and projects that were presented, and also knew that it would be valuable to participate in a conference where everyone, despite their area of study, had an interest in how we can make the UN Sustainable Development Goals a reality.

I left the conference with a few general observations: Firstly, the featured projects were tailored to speak to people with varying degrees of knowledge. Some projects required basic prior knowledge in the respective field to fully understand the studies: One student presented innovative chemical manufacturing processes of an alternative material to plastic. Someone else had creatively designed a card game to indicate a food’s wastefulness, climate-friendliness, and seasonality to consumers. Thereby, sustainability was presented as a broadly applicable topic, from everyday life to specialized scientific research.

Secondly, the conference undoubtedly mirrored that Sustainability hits a nerve with each and every attendee, and it stimulates dedication and interest in an unparalleled fashion.

The closing event, which reunited attendees for a networking session, clarified that sustainability is near to people’s hearts: rarely have I observed and engaged in this many animated conversations, nor have I experienced proactivity and willingness to collaborate to this extent.

At the end, I noted that my perception of sustainability had changed. I find that in a university environment, sustainability as an idea is often closely connected to a certain career path rather than an end in itself: In an academic environment, sustainability is often mentioned in relation to ESG or Sustainable Finance. Surely, this phenomenon indicates increased awareness to the topic, but it causes loss of sight of all the issues that sustainability truly encompasses. Food Insecurity, socioeconomic status, physical and mental health issues, and the intersection of sustainability and humanitarian needs were discussed in the conference. The diversified content reinforced the need for interdisciplinary exchange to maintain an overall perspective.

I am sure speakers left the conference feeling buoyed by the unanimously positive feedback. Two students contently reported that attendees responded to their respective talks with inquisitive feedback and compliments on the exciting insights. Indeed, a successful event such as this acts as a propelling stimulation for those considering dedicating themselves to a sustainability-related project. To me, the conference meant newly acquired knowledge, exciting ideas, illuminating conversations, and several thrilling book recommendations, which all touch on sustainability, in all ways imaginable.

Elisabeth Möhlenkamp volunteered at LSSC on 20 February 2023. Whilst the conference has now taken place, you can still view the poster submissions for the event here. The conference will take place again in February 2024.

Join the final week of King’s Climate & Sustainability Month

King’s Climate & Sustainability Month offers you an opportunity to learn more about sustainability topics, collaborate and connect with others from across King’s, and take action on the climate crisis. Join the final week for a tree planting afternoon, a sustainability careers night, a climate action Q&A, a community mobilisation workshop, and more. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Twitter for updates.

Check out the events taking place this week:

Monday 27th 12-13 (Strand) Climate Change: What can we do? Join this student-activist-academic-led panel as part of the Associateship of King’s College (AKC).

 

15.30-16.30 (Waterloo) Stitch and Pitch: Volunteering Share your ideas, meet new people and learn about volunteering while honing your creative skills.

 

Various King’s Entrepreneurship Week – Day 1 Join an entrepreneurship hackathon, a workshop on how to build diverse teams, and a discussion about whether cities can be sustainable.

 

Tuesday 28th 12-13 (Online) Q&A with the Collective for Climate Action Find out more about this network of climate networks including 300 government organisations.

 

Various King’s Entrepreneurship Week – Day 2 Learn about how to spark disruptive ideas and gain insight into fast-paced innovation in health.

 

Wednesday 1st 15-16 (Online) Ethical and Fairtrade consumption What does Fairtrade mean? What are its limitations? How accessible are ethical choices?

 

17.30-20.30 (Guy’s) Stolen Climate: Global Perspectives of Fire on Earth Explore how we understand wildfires from their interaction with the Earth’s atmosphere to their relationship with colonialism.

 

Various King’s Entrepreneurship Week – Day 3 Find out how to develop entrepreneurial ideas using feedback and share yours in a speed mentoring session.

 

Thursday 2nd 12-13.30 (Online) Community organising & change-making

 

Join this workshop to hear about the power of community organising to change our societies.

 

16-18 (Strand) Engineering Microbial Biotech for Environmental Sustainability Learn about the role of the Sustainable Development Goals in microbial biotech.

 

18.30-20 (Residence) GradPlus: Climate & Sustainability careers Join the GradPlus team to discover careers related to climate & sustainability.

 

Various King’s Entrepreneurship Week – Day 4 Hear about the career journeys of three successful women and uncover disability bias in entrepreneurship.

 


Friday 3rd
12-14 (Honour Oak Park) Tree planting afternoon  Enjoy being outdoors and meet new people while helping us plant over 200 trees.

 

Various King’s Entrepreneurship Week – Day 5 Learn how to create an entrepreneurial CV and enjoy the week’s closing networking party.
All week Fairtrade Fortnight (27th of February – 12th of March) Choosing Fairtrade supports producers in protecting the future of some of our most-loved food and the planet.

 

King’s Climate & Sustainability Month: Week 4

King’s Climate & Sustainability Month offers you an opportunity to learn more about sustainability topics, collaborate and connect with others from across King’s, and take action on the climate crisis. Join the fourth week for an inter-university conference, to exorcise your climate anxieties through music, explore climate change via foreign policy and security, and more. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Twitter for updates.

Check out the events taking place this week:

Monday 20th 12-20 (Hybrid) London Student Sustainability Conference Join this conference to find out more about the student-led work that is inspiring positive impacts in the world.

 

Tuesday 21st 12.30-14 (Strand) The sound of the climate crisis Get loud with this gig theatre workshop which invites you to identify your climate anxieties and exorcise them through music in a safe and welcoming environment.

 

Wednesday 22nd 10-16 (Strand) Foreign Policy and Security Conference (22nd-24th) This conference provides a forum for practitioners and students to discuss together the challenges faced in the international arena, including climate change.

 

13.30-14.30 (Online) Make a difference – activism via email This event will give you the tools and support to demand better from your favourite brands – all through the power of an email.

 

14-16 (Waterloo) Plant with Pride: LGBTQ+ Gardening Event Meet new friends, sew seeds, paint pots and learn how to look after your plants with the Senior Gardener in the local community.

 

Thursday 23rd 9-17.30 (Strand) New Energy – a new approach to procurement and delivery? This event will explore current developments in the procurement of new and renewable energy projects, focusing both on the UK and internationally.

 

12-14.30 (Strand) Sustainable community lunch Join this lunch to connect with like-minded students and meet the King’s Sustainability team while enjoying vegan treats.

 

12-17.30 (Guy’s) Climate finance workshop Join this workshop to learn about pricing climate linkers, measuring climate transition risk, economic implications of short-term climate scenarios, and more.

 

16-17 (Online) Cross River Partnership: Empowering City Sustainability Join Cross River Partnership’s Conversation to explore how businesses can reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and be a force for positive change.

 


Friday 24th
11-12 (Online) Sustainability drop-in Join this online drop-in to ask the King’s Sustainability team any questions and discover how you can get involved with sustainability at King’s and beyond.

 

All week Various Biohackathon This hackathon aims to provide you with knowledge, skills, and experience to solve global problems with synthetic biology and entrepreneurship.

 

 

Living in King’s Residences? Then check out the various events coming up in celebration of King’s Climate & Sustainability Month.

King’s Climate & Sustainability Month: Week 3

King’s Climate & Sustainability Month offers you an opportunity to learn more about sustainability topics, collaborate and connect with others from across King’s, and take action on the climate crisis. Join the third week for interactive climate simulations, seed bomb making, mindfulness in nature, climate activism, and volunteering. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Twitter for updates.

Check out the events taking place this week:

Monday 13th
10.30-12 (Strand) King’s Climate Action Network Showcase Find out more about the King’s Climate Action Network while connecting over creative activities.

 

13.30-15 (Strand) Interactive climate simulator workshop Join this workshop exploring what climate interventions are needed to effectively mitigate climate change on a global scale, using the En-ROADS Climate Solutions Simulator.

 

Wednesday 15th
11-12 (Online) King’s Volunteering Webinar: Taking action by volunteering Find out how you can take action by volunteering, giving your time to support organisations driving positive change.

 

13-15 (Guy’s) Cycling in London Do a test bike ride with Swapfiets and find out more about their bike membership, connect with King’s Cycling Club, and learn more about cycling and bike maintenance.

 

14-15 (Guy’s) Mindfulness in nature Drop into your body, expand your awareness, and reconnect to nature through meditation, active listening, slacklining, dance and yoga.

 


Friday 17th
10-16 (Strand) SPACE – re-imagining space for sustainability Join this exhibition and showcase of live demos which explore the use of urban space for better sustainable living.

 

12.15-13.15 (Strand) Make your own seed bombs Learn about creating wildlife-friendly spaces and make your own seed bomb.

 

15.30-16.30 (Strand) An introduction to climate activism and youth governance Hear from the Youth Climate Ambassadors for Wales about how you can get involved in climate activism and how we achieve youth governance.

 

All week Student volunteering week (King’s Volunteering and KCLSU) A national week of action involving over 60 HE institutions featuring events and volunteering taster activities from a range of societies and charity partners.

Climate & Sustainability Month: Week 2

King’s Climate & Sustainability Month offers you an opportunity to learn more about sustainability topics, collaborate and connect with others from across King’s, and take action on the climate crisis. Join the second week to discover careers in sustainability, network, learn about air travel and making change abroad, and re-imagine space for sustainability. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Twitter for updates.

Check out the events taking place this week:

Monday 6th 6-7.15pm (Online) Discover Careers In: Sustainability Hear from industry professionals and alumni about their roles in the Sustainability sector and gather in-depth knowledge to assist your career search.

 

Tuesday 7th 12-12.45pm (Strand) Sustainability and Global Mobility – How you can make a change abroad Join the Global Mobility team to learn more about how you can be more sustainable when travelling to study or work abroad.

 

6-7.15pm (Online) Discover Careers In: Social Enterprise Hear from industry professionals and alumni about their roles in the Social Enterprise sector and gather in-depth knowledge to assist your career search.

 

Wednesday 8th 2-4pm (Strand) KBS sustainability essay competition workshop Join this workshop on doing research and evaluating research studies for undergraduate King’s Business School students to gain useful skills for the KBS sustainability essay competition.

 

3-5pm Leadership Masterclass – Introduction to Community Organising Join KCLSU for this introduction to the practice and tools of community organising, looking at how it can be used to build the power of communities to make change through collective action.

 

4.15-5.15pm (Hybrid) Air travel in academia: how sustainable is the academic system? Join this discussion to learn more about reducing the impact of air travel within & beyond academic systems.

 

6-8pm (Strand) CASCADE INQUIRY: Exploring hopeful climate futures Join this generative discussion introducing CASCADE INQUIRY, a new initiative by Superflux that imagines climate-positive futures.

 


Thursday 9th
2-3.15pm (Online) Discover Careers In: Renewable Energy & Sustainable Tech Hear from industry professionals and alumni about their roles in the Renewable Energy & Sustainable Tech sector and gather in-depth knowledge to assist your career search.

 

6-7.30pm (Strand) Climate & Sustainability Careers Networking Night Join this Networking Night to meet with employers who have sustainability opportunities as well as individuals keen to share their knowledge and experience working in this area.

 

Please note that the SPACE – re-imagining space for sustainability event that was due to take place on the 10th has been postponed to the 17th.

King’s Climate & Sustainability Action Plan is now live!

King’s Climate & Sustainability Action Plan, developed by the university’s Climate & Sustainability team in consultation with students, staff, alumni and members of King’s Climate Action Network (King’s CAN), has now been published. The action plan outlines 13 key impact areas to guide the university’s approach to sustainability and climate change, informed by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

Key deliverables include:

  • At least a 50% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030, across energy use, business travel, our supply chain, commuting and waste
  • Ensuring sustainability and climate education is embedded into all King’s degree programmes by 2026
  • A four-fold increase in climate and sustainability research activity by 2029
  • Increasing investments with socially responsible benefits to 40% by 2025
  • Development of guidance on internal carbon pricing, to ensure we can better align financial decision-making criteria with King’s climate action goals

The publication of the action plan coincides with the start of King’s Climate & Sustainability Month which runs throughout February. It features ambitious targets to reduce emissions from our buildings so we can deliver the 40-50% reduction needed by 2030 to help limit global warming to 1.5°C.

The plan prioritises absolute reduction of carbon emissions over offsetting, which compensates for emissions by funding equivalent carbon dioxide savings elsewhere, and carbon removals, which includes natural strategies like tree restoration and agricultural soil management.

That is why we have now set a 2030 net zero target to give us more time to focus and invest in direct emissions reductions on our estate and in our operations.

Find out more here (or on the external page here).

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