Interactive masterclass: AI and environmental sustainability in post 16 education

This event is supported by SFC.

Alongside the forthcoming launch of AI and environmental sustainability in post-16 education: a practical guide, published in collaboration between Jisc and EAUC, this interactive masterclass draws on sector expertise, emerging research and practitioner insight to support institutions in embedding environmental considerations into AI strategy, policy and procurement.

Artificial intelligence is already being used across post-16 education: in teaching, research, digital infrastructure and estates. At the same time, institutions are under increasing pressure to understand and respond to the environmental impacts of AI, often in the absence of clear data, consistent evidence or shared standards.

This session is grounded in the newly published guide but does not attempt to replicate it. Through the masterclass we create space to explore these issues in greater depth, focusing on practical understanding, reflection and application across different institutional roles. It is designed to support participants to engage critically and realistically with the environmental sustainability implications of AI - recognising the constraints, trade-offs and uncertainties that exist in practice.

Jisc and EAUC approach this work as educators and sector bodies, not as advocates for any particular technology or provider. As we have done with the guide, in this session we seek to curate reliable evidence, surface the questions institutions are actively grappling with, and connect AI to existing commitments around sustainability and responsible governance. Rather than promising silver bullets – we will be clear about what is known, what remains uncertain, and where the gaps lie.

What the session will cover

Participants will explore:

• Where AI is already embedded in post‑16 institutions – including ‘quiet’ or hidden uses
• The environmental impacts of AI, and where evidence is strong, weak or contested
• Why everyday AI use matters more than model training for most institutions
• The opportunities AI may offer, alongside trade‑offs, rebound effects and displacement of impacts
• Common misconceptions and headline claims, and how to respond to them constructively
• What institutions can realistically do now
• Where collective, sector‑level action is essential

Throughout the session, environmental considerations will be framed as closely connected with ethical, social and governance issues, rather than treated in isolation.

How the session will be delivered

The masterclass will be as a live, interactive online session and will include:

• Introductions to key concepts
• Live polls and chat prompts
• Small breakout discussions
• Practical exercises and scenario‑based activities
• Shared reflection and discussion
• Multiple breaks to support health and wellbeing.

Participants are encouraged to contribute from their own role and context – whether they work in teaching and learning, research, IT, estates, sustainability, digital, or leadership and governance.

Who should attend?

This session is relevant for anyone involved or interested in sustainability and AI in post-16 education. We will cover issues relating to strategy, policy or governance; digital, IT or data services; estates, infrastructure or sustainability; teaching, learning or assessment; research support or research management; and senior leadership and decision-making.

While colleagues from outside the UK and Republic of Ireland are very welcome to attend, the session will be delivered primarily in the context of policy, practice and sector developments in the UK and Republic of Ireland.

No technical expertise in AI is required.