Higher Education and climate change
Scientists and environmental associations alone cannot solve climate change challenges. They need the support of governments, social and cultural heritage specialists, and educational institutions to become part of a collective plan to fight against climate change. Universities as knowledge communities take pride in educating the young and motivated students through learning and research.
Many universities support climate change projects or lead their own research, and some are part of organizations that share and work together. The King’s College London is a member of the International Universities Climate Alliance, representing climate and environmental universities worldwide. The main aim is to support world leaders, policymakers, and industry in planning climate change actions.
Not just the leading research universities can help the climate change issue. All HE institutions have the opportunity to make their impact on the situation. All can expand teaching and courses in climate and environment and involve students, staff, and the community in related projects.
In Australia, the University of Western Australia issued a report that asks questions about education and its connection to industries and professions since the latter will have to adapt due to climate change.
For example, the architecture and engineering sector needs to create a new regenerative design, reuse and use of sustainable materials, consider waste minimisation, and employ new systems. Many new skills and competencies will need to be taught to students to become these responsible professionals.
Each HE institutions can also start with smaller steps and become more sustainable both in the classrooms and in the physical campuses.
Across the world, HE institutions have started adding environmental and sustainability education to curriculum, campus, and community outreach programs. The advantage of being in the public sector means universities’ actions will involve not only the students but the word will spread in public and have a positive outcome.
University campuses are being transformed as sites of energy production and consumption. For example, RMIT University in Australia is among those who produce its own renewable energy.
In the UK, Bournemouth University has received a certification for its environmental and energy management system. Committed to engaging students and ensure its research contributes to tackling global issues, such as health and wellbeing, climate change, and inequality. Investing in energy and water conservation measures, achieving high sustainability build standards, encouraging positive behaviors of its staff and students,
BU Chief Operating Officer, Jim Andrews, said that gaining the certification is an outstanding achievement and shows the commitment to minimising their environmental footprint. Still, at the same time, they need to ensure that students and staff continue to contribute to making a better world for all.
If these institutions remain inactive, the trust of young people, public and communities will be shaken. They can produce knowledge that inspires others to act. Therefore, universities must share and collaborate to tackle climate change and are adopting an open-minded approach to involve the public, businesses, and governments to work together on this global issue.
