Last month, our Sustainability Manager, Lucy Moore, delivered a workshop at the University of Bolton as part of an industry practice module for Medical Biology final year students. The workshop focused on enhancing students' understanding of sustainability, with the aim to highlight the importance of their choices for creating an environmentally conscientious society.

A short study at the beginning of the workshop revealed that the majority of the students didn't feel confident in their knowledge regarding sustainability practices and initiatives, emphasizing the need for sustainability-centred workshops within their curriculum. This set the basis for an insightful session that covered topics such as greenhouse gases, carbon footprints, and net zero emissions, along with global initiatives such as the Paris Agreement and the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.

Moreover, the workshop delved into the sustainability strategies adopted by businesses and organisations worldwide, encompassing concepts such as Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions. The students also gained insights into correlating lab activities with each scope of emissions, facilitating a comprehensive understanding of sustainable practices.

Overall, the workshop served its purpose: preparing the final year students for life in a professional setting after university (whether that be in a lab or otherwise) and helping them understand the importance of making informed decisions.

Here's some lovely feedback from the students:

“I enjoyed this session a lot! Lucy was fantastic! I never thought about sustainability in the laboratory before this presentation. Thank you for today!”

“This workshop has said how my personal life makes way much more difference than you think. It made me think again about the decisions I can make to save the environment and save energy”

“The workshop was really helpful and understanding. Easy words were used to make us understand the big concept. Small activities were really good”