Oxford Brookes University received an award for its work to raise awareness of issues around sustainability.

The Fairtrade university award recognises activities working for a more just, equitable and sustainable world for all.

These include raising awareness of the issues of ethical and sustainable consumption and increasing the availability of Fairtrade products on campus.

The award programme encourages partnership between sustainability, catering and academic staff in the institution, plus the students’ union and students to cover procurement, awareness raising and campaigning activities. 

Students were recruited as volunteer auditors and given training by the Fairtrade Foundation, equipping them with skills and experience in conducting an audit.

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Michele Morley, environmental sustainability manager at Oxford Brookes University, said: “We are proud of our long history as a Fairtrade university, having been the world’s first Fairtrade university in 2003.

“As a large and complex organisation, we recognise our environmental and social impacts and the pivotal role we have in shaping positive change.

“On behalf of Oxford Brookes, I would like to thank all staff, students and our community partners for their commitment in pursuing this award.

Joanna Milis, education campaigns manager from the Fairtrade Foundation, said: 

“At a time when young people are forming their values and shaping their future careers, it is essential that they are presented with a wide range of narratives and opportunities to think differently about the world. We are one global community.

"Our decisions have far-reaching consequences, and only together can we tackle the biggest challenges facing our planet and its inhabitants."

 

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This story was written by Anna Colivicchi, she joined the team this year and covers health stories for the Oxfordshire papers. 

Get in touch with her by emailing: Anna.colivicchi@newsquest.co.uk

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