Sustainability society
Sustainability Society collaborates in a cleanliness drive
Litter picking exercises are essential in maintaining a clean and healthy environment. On the 18 April 2023, 15 students and members of the Sustainability Society were led by Professor P.B Anand, Patron and Head of Department for Peace Studies and International Development. They partnered with the Bradford Council in a litter picking exercise, an opportunity to commemorate Earth Day.
The exercise, which lasted for 90 minutes, started with a walk from the University to Bradford City Centre where participants had a briefing from the Bradford Council staff. They were then provided with gloves, litter pickers, and bin bags and given instructions on how to stay safe. Students were divided into groups and were assigned to pick litter from the Bradford city centre and its environs.
During this exercise, it was disappointing to see the amount of litter in the streets. Plastic bottles, candy wrappers, cigarette butts, and food containers were among the most common items that members picked. It was obvious that littering is a pervasive problem, and students engaged in discussing crucial and practical ways to raise awareness about the importance of keeping the environment clean.
Despite the overwhelming amount of litter, the insightful activity was also a chance to appreciate the beauty of Bradford. Students had the opportunity to explore the city, interact with each other as they all worked together towards a common goal.
One of the society members shared her feedback, “It was heart warming to see people of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures coming together for a common cause”.
The litter picking exercise also highlighted the importance of community involvement in environmental issues. Essentially, we all have a role to play in keeping our neighbourhoods and cities clean.
Through simple actions, like properly disposing of trash, we can make a significant impact on the environment.
Sustainability Society launches gardening initiative
On May 3, 2023, at the university's allotments, sustainability society launched gardening initiative. Three different kinds of short-term (6 weeks) summer crops (strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries) were planted as part of a student-led initiative.
More than 15 students participated actively in the gardening activity at the event, which attracted attendees from the sustainability society and beyond. The presence of Professor Fiona Macaulay, a lecturer at the Faculty of Peace Studies and International Development, and Simon Padgett, the head of the university's gardening department, also encouraged everyone in attendance.
The initiative not only supports the university's ongoing efforts to promote sustainability and environmental responsibility, but it also aimed to give students a chance to bond and unwind outside of their study schedules. Additionally, numerous studies have supported the role gardening plays in treating depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.
The crops will be ready for harvest within six weeks of planting, and their fruits available for everyone to enjoy. This initiative aims to encourage more students to become interested in gardening.
Student attend sustainability conference
University of Leeds organised the Student Sustainability Research Conference (SSRC) on 28th March 2023 Parkinson Court. Students across Yorkshire researching in the field of sustainability were invited to present their research in a professional conference environment. The conference featured four main themes, including circular economy, reducing plastic waste, food security, and reducing inequality.
A student of the University of Bradford pursuing MSc Project Planning and Management and an active member of the Sustainability Society participated in the event. He presented his research paper on the importance of social behavior change communication (SBCC) for moulding perceptions and building constructive action for plastic waste management. His presentation on the research findings were very well received by the participants. His work was highly appreciated by the panelists of a unique carbon neutral event.
Students participate in Climate Justice Debate Challenge
In December 2022, students participated in the Climate Justice Debate Challenge held at Middlesex University. Challenge was participated by seven Universities from UK. Students developed skills of teamwork, time management, critical thinking and communication and were appreciated by judges for their debating skills.
