Establishing local sustainability projects that address the UN Sustainability Development Goals

Before increasing global disruptions and uncertainties, it is necessary to prepare students with capabilities to influence change and to nurture their agency. This case study examines a pilot student sustainability leadership initiative run at an English university. It comprises a model which combines student as partners and “living lab” practices. It engaged undergraduates in partnership with academics in projects they co-created to address curriculum and campus challenges, framing these in relation to the UN Sustainability Development Goals. The model, underpinned by constructivist and experiential learning pedagogies, harnesses creativity to nurture action for sustainability. A multi-level evaluation identified the impacts of the experience on students and academics and of the outputs in relation to the university’s education and sustainability strategies. The results demonstrate this student as partner and living lab model to be effective and efficient. It has been adopted as business-as-usual at the university and is transferable. This case study is co-authored by the staff and some of the students involved.