Kingston University
Making Sustainability Work for Everyone: Tackling Inequality through Teaching, Policy and Partnership
Finalist, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Sustainability
Finalist, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Sustainability
About
This work focuses on improving outcomes for students from low‑income and widening‑participation backgrounds, Black and minority ethnic students, and disabled and neurodiverse learners by embedding equity within sustainability practice. This approach is delivered through coordinated activity across governance, curriculum, and partnerships. Student–staff collaboration shapes inclusive, sustainability‑focused curricula, addresses structural barriers and influences validation processes. Over the past two years, more than 4,000 students have benefited from 65 curriculum design and review projects and bespoke climate‑justice learning, contributing to more inclusive teaching, assessment and learning environments whilst addressing sustainability. Curriculum innovation, institutional policy development, and partnerships with community organisations and NHS trusts connect sustainability to real‑world inequalities and workforce needs. Together, this strengthens engagement, broadens participation in sustainability education, and prepares graduates to support a just transition.
Top 3 learnings
- By giving staff and students agency to co‑create services and learning, we strengthen our reach.
- By explaining EDI–sustainability connections clearly, we empower people to act confidently and meaningfully.
- We help staff and students break silos and strengthen sustainability by using holistic, lateral thinking.
What would it mean to win?
Winning this prestigious award demonstrates how our commitment to sustainability is empowering staff and students to act as change agents and in partnership with the wider community, contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Sustainable Development Goal (SDG)
| 2026 | |
| Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Sustainability | |
| Finalist, UK and Ireland |
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Green Gown Award Regions
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