Multi-university challenge day: fostering sustainability through collaboration

On 1 December 2023, two students from the University of York attended the Multi-University Challenge Day at Imagine Leeds, organised by Yorkshire Universities and the Yorkshire and Humber Climate Commission (YHCC).

The event brought together 32 students from twelve universities across Yorkshire to work in multidisciplinary teams on a challenge. Specifically, they were tasked with developing ideas on how we might engage more students with sustainability while studying at university, which would help advance the YHCC’s Regional Climate Action Plan.

Two students from the University of York attended the event: Fran File, studying MSc Environmental Sustainability Education and Communication, and Moses Cirelli, a 2nd Year student studying BSc Environment, Economics and Ecology.

Fran shared her thoughts about the day: “I enjoyed being able to collaborate with different people who I wouldn’t have met usually. There were so many exciting and creative solutions that were discussed and built upon. I gained a deeper understanding of systems and future thinking, and feel much more confident about applying them. Being able to consider many consequences of how current systems work and what needs to be involved when changing the systems.”

Students participating in the Challenge Day were issued a ‘Certificate of Achievement’ recognising their contribution in taking forward the YHCC’s Climate Action Plan. They also completed a sustainability skills assessment session that aimed to help articulate the experience and skills utilised. 

Ideas from the event

Some sustainability tips that came from the students included: remember to turn off lights when not in use, take eco-friendly steps whenever possible, avoid food shopping on an empty stomach, and as the holiday season approaches, why not consider exploring pre-loved gift options.

Well done to our students who took part in this challenge day!