Topic - Talks and Lectures, Open Events, Student life
Sustainability Week aims to inspire staff, students, and the local community to take positive action towards a more sustainable future.
Through a series of engaging workshops, talks, seminars, and events, we'll explore a range of sustainability topics including biodiversity, reducing waste, sustainable communities, low-carbon technology, and more.
The week will also host two sustainability fairs where visitors can meet vendors, local organisations, and community projects that are contributing to sustainability in Sunderland and beyond.
Sustainability seminars
The sustainability seminars are a key highlight of Sustainability Week, offering an opportunity for attendees to hear from academics, industry experts, and community leaders about exciting sustainability projects and initiatives. The seminars aim to inspire positive action by showcasing innovative solutions to environmental challenges.
Two seminar events will take place during Sustainability Week:
- Tuesday 6 May, 4:30pm–7pm
- Thursday 8 May, 4:30pm–7pm
Complimentary refreshments will be available from 4:30pm, providing a great opportunity to network before the presentations begin at 5pm.
Tuesday 6 May – Murray Health Building, City Campus
Sustainability and Manufacturing with Nida Naveed
A presentation exploring how sustainability can be embedded into manufacturing processes and how technology can help drive greener solutions
Sustainability Development Goals and Business with Tamma Carel
Fresh from the TEDx Teesside stage, Tamma joins us to deliver an engaging talk on the SDGs, ESG, and the triple bottom line
University of Sunderland and Durham Wildlife Trust Biodiversity Project with Dr Matti Morovat, Dr Neil Parkin and Dr Meg Eghebi
Learn about the collaborative biodiversity project between the University of Sunderland and Durham Wildlife Trust, which aims to enhance local wildlife habitats and improve biodiversity in the region
Enrich the Earth – Community Composting Initiative with Pam Jose
Discover how Enrich the Earth’s composting initiative is helping to reduce waste and educate the community about sustainable waste practices. This session will highlight how composting bins have been introduced to the University’s community garden, A Space 2 Grow, where staff and students volunteer
Register to attend the Sustainability Seminars on Tuesday 6 May
Thursday 8th May – Prospect Building, Sir Tom Cowie Campus
Groundwork – Sustainable Communities with Laura Farrell-Prosesti
A look at Groundwork’s efforts in building sustainable communities and engaging local groups in climate action. The session will showcase real-world examples of sustainable development in action
Stronger Shores Wild Oysters Project with Joe Harper
Learn how the Stronger Shores project is restoring oyster beds along the north-east coastline to improve marine biodiversity. The presentation will highlight how restoring native oysters can help rehabilitate entire marine ecosystems
BAFTA Albert - Environmental Sustainability for the Screen Industries with Gary Stubbs
A presentation from a Senior Film and Television Lecturer and Onset Assistant Director covering how sustainability is taught in the film and TV industry, and how it's delivered on our MA media production course, with a focus on the BAFTA Albert Grad certification programme and the importance of embedding sustainability within the creative screen industries
BAFTA Albert Production with Kevin Gatens
The University of Sunderland graduate will present a case study on his BAFTA Albert-accredited film Lead Me Here. The session will explore the practical application of sustainable filmmaking techniques and the impact of environmentally conscious media production
Register to attend the Sustainability Seminars on Thursday 8 May
Sustainability talks and workshops
Flour, salt and water: The art and sustainability of bread
Tuesday 6 May, 12pm–1pm, The Gallery Room, Hope Street Xchange.
This engaging talk explores the deep connections between bread-making, art, wellbeing, and sustainability. Discover how the simple ingredients of flour, salt, and water are transformed into more than just food – they represent creativity, tradition, and environmental consciousness. Learn about the therapeutic benefits of baking, the role of slow food in sustainable living, and how bread-making can be an artistic and mindful practice.
Just let your soul grow: Composting demonstration
Tuesday 6 May, 12pm–1pm, Sustainability Fair, City Campus.
Learn how to compost food waste effectively at home or in community spaces.
Dead Good eco funerals: Sustainable choices for the end of life
Tuesday 6 May, 1pm–2pm, Gallery Room, Hope Street XChange.
This thought-provoking workshop explores eco-friendly funeral practices and how we can reduce our environmental impact even after life. Learn about natural burials, biodegradable coffins, and greener cremation alternatives, as well as the importance of personal choice and sustainability in end-of-life planning. Discover how small changes can make a big difference in creating a more sustainable future.
Stronger Shores wild oysters project
Thursday 8 May, 9:30am–10:30am, room 408, Reg Vardy Building.
This interactive workshop will allow you to learn about the Stronger Shores project, observe live oyster samples, and discuss marine biodiversity.
Houseplant health: Growing greener, thriving plants
Thursday 8 May, 12pm–1pm, room 408, Reg Vardy Building.
Discover how to keep your houseplants happy and healthy in this engaging talk on plant care, sustainability, and common pitfalls. Learn about proper watering, natural pest control, soil health, and light requirements, while exploring the benefits of indoor plants for wellbeing and air quality. Whether you're a beginner or a plant enthusiast, this session will provide practical tips to help your plants thrive sustainably.
Root Garden Maintenance Invasive Species Talk
Thursday 8 May, 1pm– 2pm, room 408, Reg Vardy Building.
This informative talk focuses on the impact of invasive plant species on local ecosystems and biodiversity. Learn how non-native plants spread, the dangers they pose to native flora, and effective strategies for managing and preventing their spread. Explore conservation efforts aimed at protecting our environment from these ecological disruptors and how we can all contribute to safeguarding native plants.
Honey Bee Talk
Friday 9 May, 2pm – 3pm, A Space to Grow Community Garden, St Peter’s Church.
An inspiring talk about honey bees and their vital role in our ecosystem. Led by local beekeeper Rob Balzi, who cares for the hives at A Space 2 Grow, this session will delve into the fascinating world of bees, their importance for biodiversity, and how we can all support pollinators in our local environment. Whether you're a nature lover, an aspiring beekeeper, or just curious about these incredible creatures, come along to learn, ask questions, and see the bees in action!
Sustainability fairs
A marketplace of sustainable vendors, local organisations, and community projects. Come and learn about local sustainability initiatives.
City Campus Fair
Tuesday 6 May, 11am–3pm, City Campus Quadrant.
Sir Tom Cowie Campus Fair
Thursday 8 May, 11am–3pm, University Square.
Other events
Free bike MOT
Tuesday 6 May, 8am–2pm, City Campus.
The friendly and helpful bike mechanic experts will carry out basic bicycle servicing to help you keep pedalling.
SDGs workshop for academic staff
Tuesday 6 May, 10:30am–11:30am, room 121, Wearside View.
A session exploring the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and their local applications.
Guided bike ride from City Campus to Marsden Rock
Tuesday 6 May, 2:30pm–5:30pm departing from CitySpace.
A scenic cycle ride promoting sustainable travel and exploring the coastline.
Eco ride from St Peter’s to Roker
Wednesday 7 May, 9:30am–11:30am departing from The Cycle Hub.
A sustainable cycling event highlighting the benefits of green travel.
Heritage walk
Wednesday 7 May, 12:30pm–1:30pm departing from CitySpace.
A guided walk from CitySpace to St Peter’s Church exploring Sunderland’s cultural and environmental heritage.
Visit to Suez Energy from waste site
Wednesday 7 May, 12pm–4pm, minibus departing from CitySpace.
A behind-the-scenes look at waste processing and sustainability in action.
Community litter pick at Backhouse Park
Wednesday 7 May, 1:30pm–3:30pm departing from CitySpace.
A community clean-up event to help improve the local environment.
Stash vintage clothing sale
Thursday 8 May, 11am–3pm at CitySpace.
A sustainable fashion event promoting second-hand and upcycled clothing.
Wildlife walk
Friday 9 May, 12:30pm–1:30pm departing from CitySpace.
A guided walk to Sir Tom Cowie Campus at St Peter’s focusing on local biodiversity and conservation efforts.
12-hour hackathon
Saturday 10 May, 8am–8pm at Digital Incubator Space, David Goldman Building.
The University of Sunderland’s first sustainability hackathon, bringing together young adults to solve local environmental challenges using technology.