Loughborough has taken another step towards strengthening its commitment to sustainability with the launch of a new programme designed to help staff, students and the local community better understand and respond to the global diversity crisis. The programme will offer free, one-off training sessions for students, staff and community members throughout this year.
The first session of the new Biodiversity Literacy Training, delivered online by the University’s Sustainability Team on 2 July, enabled 12 participants to explore a defining current environmental challenge. The interactive training introduced attendees to the causes and impacts of biodiversity loss, highlighting why biodiversity is essential for both people and the planet.
Through a series of engaging activities and discussions, participants explored practical actions that can be taken individually and collectively to protect and restore nature. The session also provided an opportunity for participants to share ideas and reflect on the role individuals can play in creating a more sustainable future. Attendees left with practical actions they can take both at work and at home to support the environment.
Reflecting on the training, one participant said:
"The interactivity resonated strongly with me – the breakout sessions were perfect for this. It was also well directed and the conversations in those breakout sessions really benefited from it. It also showed a clear differentiation from general environmental sustainability, which was well communicated and very engaging to process with a group."
The Biodiversity Literacy Training was developed by the University of Edinburgh, which has granted Loughborough University a licence to deliver the programme to staff, students and members of the local community. By bringing this nationally recognised training to Loughborough, the university is helping to equip participants with the knowledge and confidence needed to take meaningful action for nature.
Following the success of the first session, several other training sessions will be available across the 2026/27 academic year. More information is available on the Biodiversity Literacy Training events page.
Book your place on a future Biodiversity Literacy Training session:
Alongside Biodiversity Literacy Training, Loughborough University also offers accredited Carbon Literacy Training. Delivered across two half-day sessions, the course provides participants with an understanding of climate change, its impacts and the actions that can be taken to reduce carbon emissions. The training is accredited by the Carbon Literacy Project.
Upcoming Carbon Literacy Training dates are:
- Wednesday 4 & 11 November 2026 (taking place during Sustainability Fortnight)
Whether you're interested in learning more about biodiversity, climate change, or both, these free training opportunities provide an excellent way to develop your knowledge, connect with like-minded people and contribute to Loughborough University's sustainability goals.
Places are limited, so early booking is recommended.