The ‘Climate Cup’ was a student engagement programme where student sports clubs within the University competed to be the most sustainable. The initiative used the power of competition to combat climate change and restore nature.
It was held in partnership with Carbon Jacked, a social enterprise that helps organisations to creatively combat climate change, living by the motto that ‘saving the planet shouldn’t be boring’.
Across the year, students took on challenges covering climate, nature and communications. Staff and expert partners supported through a blend of in-person sessions, social media content and career sessions.
The ‘Climate Cup’ inspired over 20 teams, representing thousands of students, to take impactful and diverse environmental action. Some examples include students assessing the carbon footprint of their teams, raising money for environmental charities, cleaning waterways, reducing their waste and travelling more sustainably. Next year, the programme will be rolled out to all AU clubs.
Elliott Brown, Sustainability Manager, commented: “We’re incredibly proud to see Loughborough University shortlisted for the Green Gown Awards 2025 for ‘The Climate Cup’. This initiative showcased the creativity, energy and commitment of our student sports clubs in tackling climate change and restoring nature, empowering students to take meaningful environmental action. The partnership with Carbon Jacked brought a fresh and engaging approach to sustainability, with The Climate Cup becoming our flagship sustainability engagement programme with students. We can’t wait to see the programme grow next year.”
The Green Gown Awards celebrate sustainability initiatives in higher education. They aim to recognise and promote best practices in sustainability within the education sector, encouraging institutions to contribute to the UN Global Goals.
The winners will be announced on 6 November at the Awards Ceremony at the Library of Birmingham.