Glasgow college one of top five in UK for tackling climate change

Students and staff at Glasgow Kelvin College were honoured at this year’s Planet Earth Games.  

The national competition, open to colleges across the UK, aims to spread awareness of the climate crisis and promote sustainability among students and staff.

This year’s contest, which attracted nearly 40 entrants, had seven themes: carbon reduction, energy, travel, food, waste reduction, connecting to nature and conservation. 

Hospitality students at work in Glasgow Kelvin College kitchens (Image: Glasgow Kelvin College)

Glasgow Kelvin College were judged on events held throughout February and March, including sustainable cooking from hospitality students and staff who served meals promoting vegan and vegetarian eating while highlighting the importance of using local and seasonal produce. 

The fashion department hosted a school-wide clothing swap to promote eco-conscious consumption and spark a conversation about the environmental impacts of fast fashion. 

More than 70 students and staff participated in planting around 200 trees donated by Woodland Trust, and one support for learning class started a recycling project, creating pieces of art out of recyclable waste to promote their campaign. 

Other events included outdoor exercise classes, group bike rides along the canal and litter picking parties across the college campuses. 

Sarah Shea, Kelvin College’s environmental and sustainability manager, said: “This is a fantastic achievement and we are really proud of our students and staff for being so enthusiastic and willing to get involved. 

“While it is great to be recognised for our efforts, what is really important is the creativity and determination among our students and facilities to play our part in tackling the climate crisis and promote sustainable practices across the college. 

“We will certainly be reflecting on how we can take the success of these initiatives and implement them all year round.”