Are you keen to be part of the solution when it comes to the Climate and Ecological Emergencies? Do you like to problem-solve and work in a team? Then you will enjoy ECOChallenge! Register your interest now and take part in ECOChallenge 2023.

The Climate and Ecological Emergencies will remain a hot topic of conversation for years to come. 2022 has been no exception, with the international climate and nature summits (COP27 and COP15 respectively). Each year Green Lancaster hosts a competition between all nine colleges to come up with new and innovative projects that can improve environmental sustainability on campus. This year’s ECOChallenge launches on Tuesday 31st January 2023 and will take place during Lent Term.

Each college team chooses an ‘issue of today’ to explore, looking at sustainability across travel, waste, biodiversity and energy, in line with the four core areas of Green Lancaster. Focusing on their chosen issue they develop meaningful solutions that are put to the test in the Judges Panel, where teams will present their ideas to a panel of University experts; senior University staff members who are actively involved in the University’s sustainability agenda.

We’ve teamed up with Lancaster University’s Work In Progress, who will be providing three support workshops to help you develop the best sustainability ideas for Lancaster University.

“The workshops help you to learn how to unpack and reframe a place-based ECOChallenge to develop meaningful and innovative solutions that can be tested, and make an impact on the world around you.” Amanda Brooks, Enterprise Education Development Manager – Research and Enterprise Services.

These dedicated workshops are provided as part of the U Start project, which is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Northern Powerhouse Scheme.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a competition without prizes. The winning team will receive a £500 pot to split between the team and the runner-up team will receive £250 to split. Prizes and hospitality are kindly provided by the Lancaster University Nine Colleges team with promotions and final spectator support brought together by your College Manager.

Sign up now to take part in ECOChallenge 2023 and help your college win our annual sustainability competition!