University College Birmingham becomes an Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Professionals (ISEP) Training Centre

Following the exciting rebranding announcement from the Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Professionals (ISEP), formerly the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA), University College Birmingham is thrilled to announce it has achieved accreditation as an ISEP Training Centre.

The Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Professionals (ISEP) has for 25 years, acted as a global professional body for those working in the areas of environment and sustainability, its membership comprises business, government and academic institutions.

Achieving this accreditation reflects the growing importance of ensuring sustainability in the education sector for staff, students and partners. For University College Birmingham, it additionally underlines a commitment to decarbonise campuses, reform procurement and restore nature. The accreditation also empowers the University to rethink the curricula, giving students the most relevant content for a future in a workplace, grounded in principles of sustainability.

It is a recognition that facilitates the delivery of in-house, industry-standard training in sustainability, not just for students, but ultimately for the wider community, alongside continuing professional development for members of staff, including courses on Net Zero and Sustainability Skills for the Workforce, amongst others.

Membership gives the University greater autonomy over course selection, as it can self-certify its sustainability specific courses and modules, giving students the opportunity to take industry-accredited degree level modules, as they prepare for future-proofed careers in industry.

The provision will also present staff with the chance to upskill through online and in-person education, leading to their becoming ISEP trainers, qualified in the delivery of sustainable course content.

The initiative to embed this ethos into our practices will be led by Ashlea Mallett, Head of Sustainability and Campus Services, Avantika Bhargava, Sustainability and Campus Services Co-ordinator, Maddie Booth, Specialist Sustainability Education Consultant, and Michelle Callanan, Chair of our Sustainability Steering Board – Curriculum Working Group.

Ashlea said: “This certification is incredibly important as it embeds high quality sustainability knowledge and skills into our staff development, as well as adding additional opportunities for advancement for students during their time at University College Birmingham.

“This will help to prepare students to enter employment with the requisite skills for an ever-evolving work environment and further contributes to our already strong industrial relationships.”

For more information, please contact the University College Birmingham Sustainability Team: [email protected].

Notes for Editors

About the Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Professionals (ISEP)

The Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Professionals (ISEP) is the global membership body that sets the standard for anyone wanting sustainable change that delivers for the environment, society and the economy.

With 22,000 members across 120+ countries, ISEP members set the global benchmark in sustainability and environmental practice. Our networks around the world are influencing government policies, driving best-practice across business, advancing careers and nurturing talent.

No matter what stage you’re at in your career or what sector you work in, we can equip you with the skills, standards and support you need to become an agent of change.

ISEP is transforming the world today for a sustainable future.