Student Sustainability Research Conference 2023

The 2023 Student Sustainability Research Conference (SSRC) took place on Tuesday 28 March in Parkinson Court at the University of Leeds.

The conference returned in person after two years of being online. For the first time it was open to students from 12 higher education institutions across Yorkshire, making the event more inclusive and collaborative than ever before.

It offered students the opportunity to share, learn and be inspired by each other. The day featured a mix of presentations, performances and exhibitions showcasing research at all levels.

Reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of sustainability, the conference addressed all aspects of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a particular focus on the themes of Climate Resilience and Adaptation; Net Zero Carbon; Justice, Equality, and Inclusivity; and Protection of Nature and Biodiversity.

These four themes align with the aims of the Yorkshire and Humberside Climate Commission Climate Action Plan. Regional collaboration is vital to the YHCC Climate Action Plan, and core to the Supporting a Net Zero City commitments of the University of Leeds Climate Plan.

As part of our University Climate Plan we are working to make this our first carbon neutral conference. We are measuring and taking action to reduce the carbon emissions associated with each element of the event, including energy, catering and transport. The emissions associated with the event will be balanced using academically verified offsetting projects to deliver carbon neutrality.

The Student Sustainability Research Conference will in effect act as a ‘Living Lab’ to test approaches to reducing the emissions associated with events. We will be sharing what we learn from this process across the University of Leeds and with wider partners, to inform future events.