UWE Bristol Assumes Leadership of South West Climate Education Hub
The University of the West of England Bristol has been appointed as the new regional hub leader for the Climate Ambassadors programme across the South West of England. This significant development sees UWE Bristol taking over the leadership role from the Met Office, which had been steering the initiative since its inception.
Expanding Climate Education Support Across the Region
As the newly designated regional hub, UWE Bristol will work closely with educational institutions throughout the South West to deliver comprehensive, free support for developing and implementing climate action plans. The university will coordinate efforts across nurseries, schools, and colleges, connecting them with local climate experts who can provide tailored advice and guidance.
Dr Laura Fogg-Rogers, associate professor for engineering in society at UWE Bristol, will assume the position of regional hub lead. She will be supported by her academic colleague Enda Hayes, professor of air quality and carbon management, ensuring a robust leadership team for the initiative.
Comprehensive Climate Action Framework
The support programme will guide education providers through multiple critical areas of climate action planning, including:
- Decarbonisation strategies and implementation
- Climate adaptation and resilience planning
- Biodiversity enhancement and protection
- Climate education curriculum development
- Green careers guidance and pathways
UWE Bristol will also take responsibility for recruiting and training volunteers with specialist sustainability and climate expertise. These volunteers will dedicate their time to supporting educational institutions across the region, creating a valuable network of climate knowledge and practical assistance.
Building on Established Foundations
The Climate Ambassadors programme was originally established by the University of Reading in 2022 and is jointly led with the Environmental Association for Universities and Colleges. The initiative operates through nine regional hubs across England, each matching climate experts with local education providers.
Nicki Schantz will continue in her role as regional hub manager, ensuring continuity and building upon the strong foundations established during the Met Office's leadership period. This transition represents a strategic shift toward greater academic involvement in regional climate education initiatives.
University's Commitment to Sustainable Development
Dr Fogg-Rogers expressed enthusiasm about the new appointment, stating: "We are delighted to support the Climate Ambassadors programme – continuing the fantastic work pioneered by the Met Office and accelerating this through our community and civic engagement work in the South West of England."
She further emphasised UWE Bristol's commitment to sustainable development in higher education, noting the university's ranking as one of the UK's most sustainability-focused institutions. "We have an extensive track record for engagement supporting schools and colleges in the region, and we are looking forward to building on those partnerships, enhancing education for young people, and supporting climate resilience in education settings," she added.
The programme represents an exciting opportunity for UWE Bristol to amplify its role as a civic university, adopting a place-based approach to accelerate climate and nature action throughout the South West region. The hub will also contribute to national networks focused on climate action planning, ensuring regional initiatives align with broader national strategies and objectives.
