UCEM nominated for prestigious sustainability award

Posted on: 28 August, 2018

Green Gown Award finalist 2018 logo

UCEM is delighted to be on the shortlist for a category at this year’s Green Gown Awards.

UCEM’s ‘Sustainable futures through online learning’ project is one of seven Higher Education campaigns nominated in the Next Generation Learning and Skills category.

The project saw UCEM’s Online Education Department create educational resources designed to equip learners with sustainability skills through the use of cutting-edge case studies and technologies. The aim of the project was, and still is, to develop employer-focused provision which involves developing more accessible and inclusive technology-enhanced learning strategies to meet the needs of the Built Environment sector and professional accrediting bodies.

The awards, administered by the Environmental Association for Universities and Colleges (EAUC) and established in 2004, recognise exceptional sustainability initiatives being undertaken by universities and colleges across the UK and Ireland.

Aled Williams, UCEM’s Director of Research, Innovation and Partnerships, commented: “We are thrilled to be recognised for our efforts in embedding sustainability through the online learning we provide learners.

“Our sustainability endeavours are ever-increasing and we are delighted to be shortlisted at these awards, adding to the formal recognition we have received from our NUS Responsible Futures accreditation, as well as becoming a Green World Ambassador last year.”

In being shortlisted, UCEM was tasked with outlining how its project delivered against the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and empowered its students in tackling global issues for a brighter future.

Iain Patton, Chief Executive at the EAUC, said: “The EAUC has really stepped it up a gear this year with its commitment to the SDGs and partnership working. This has been driven by the post-16 education sector and its commitment to the Global Goals. The Green Gown Award applications show the truly pioneering initiatives being borne in post-16 education.

“Every day, tireless environmental, social and sustainability leaders across the UK and Ireland are driving change and showing the value universities and colleges bring to the economy and society.

“The Green Gown Awards exist to give them the recognition and platform they need to share their learning and do even more.”

UCEM’s project is up against efforts from the University of Wales, University of the Arts London, University of Salford, University of Plymouth, Ayrshire College and Sutton College.

The winners will be announced at the Awards Ceremony in York on 8 November, 2018.

For more information, visit www.greengownawards.org/2018-finalists