The week-long event engaged students, staff, and the wider community in a series of activities designed to promote eco-friendly practices and green careers.
Go Green Week Highlights
- Employer Events & Go Green Fayre: Held across DCG’s Broomfield, Joseph Wright, and Roundhouse campuses, these events featured guest speakers discussing environmental challenges, corporate sustainability efforts, and individual actions for a greener future. Students had the opportunity to interact with eco-friendly businesses and organizations, gaining valuable insights into sustainable practices and careers. Notably, at the Joseph Wright Centre, students were addressed by Hugo Valdes-Vera, founder of Think Ocean, who shared his extensive experience in environmental activism and emphasized the critical need to address plastic pollution. Valdes-Vera highlighted the importance of education and action, stating, “Educating the new generations to make sure they grow up knowing naturally that we have to take care of our planet and cleaning the pollution that is already in the environment.”
- The Big Derby Clean Up: In collaboration with the University of Derby, students actively participated in a community litter-picking event, reinforcing the importance of maintaining a clean and sustainable local environment.
- Climate Cafés: These student-led discussions provided a safe space for students to express concerns about climate change, discuss eco-anxiety, and explore positive actions they can take to make a difference.
- Wardrobe Wednesday: This initiative encouraged students to donate and exchange second-hand clothing, helping to reduce waste and raise awareness of the environmental impact of fast fashion.
Sustainable Projects and Achievements
DCG has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability through key projects:
- Heating System Upgrade: The college has replaced outdated coal-fired boilers at its Broomfield Hall campus with air and water source heat pumps. Supported by a £3.6 million grant from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, this project also included the installation of solar panels and LED lighting to improve energy efficiency.
- Sustainability in Sport Award: DCG has been awarded the National Sustainability in Sport Award at the Association of Colleges (AoC) Sport Awards for two consecutive years. Efforts contributing to this recognition include using gym equipment made from recycled materials and engaging in environmental activities such as litter picking.
- Equine Carbon Calculator: In collaboration with industry leaders, DCG developed the first industry-wide equine carbon calculator. This free tool assists equestrian businesses in measuring and reducing their carbon emissions.
Sustainability-Focused Courses at DCG
Derby College Group offers a variety of courses aimed at equipping students with the skills and knowledge required for careers in sustainability, these include:
- Environmental Sustainability and Energy Management (Level 2): This course provides students with an understanding of sustainability principles and energy management strategies, preparing them for roles in the green sector.
- Level 4 Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Practitioner Apprenticeship: Designed to blend academic knowledge with hands-on experience, this apprenticeship focuses on developing sustainability and corporate responsibility strategies within organizations.
- Conservation and Countryside Courses: These practical courses offer training in wildlife conservation, habitat management, and ecological surveying, preparing students for careers in environmental conservation and land management.
DCG’s Commitment to Sustainability
Mollie Cox, Environmental and Sustainability Officer at DCG, emphasized the impact of these initiatives, stating:
“Go Green Week at Derby College is a testament to our commitment to sustainability. By engaging students and the community in these activities, we aim to empower them to take meaningful climate action and build a greener future.”
Through innovative projects, community engagement, and sustainability-focused education, Derby College Group continues to lead the way in promoting environmental responsibility and preparing students for impactful careers in the green economy.
