Our world first Carbon Literacy award for climate education

Barnsley College is celebrating being the first organisation in the world to receive a prestigious award for climate education.

The College welcomed representatives from the Carbon Literacy Project who officially presented the Gold Carbon Literate Educator award – in recognition of the College’s trailblazing efforts that have seen more than 1,000 students and 500 staff certified as ‘Carbon Literate’.

The term refers to ‘an awareness of the carbon dioxide costs and impacts of everyday activities, and the ability and motivation to reduce emissions, on an individual, community and organisational basis’. Participants undergo a day of learning, followed by an assessment involving the making of pledges to reduce carbon emissions.

David Akeroyd, Principal and CEO of Barnsley College, said: “We’re proud to be the first organisation in the world to receive this award – and even prouder of the community of staff and students who have made it possible.

“Over recent years, Carbon Literacy has become deeply rooted in our culture. Sustainability is no longer seen as the job of a single department – it’s something everyone understands, takes responsibility for, and deeply engages with.

“It’s transformed how our staff teach and how our students think – giving them the confidence, knowledge and tools to create change within their own lives and communities.

“From our vintage retail and teaching space, Reloved Boutique, to our Construction department’s push into green skills and renewable energy, the results of that mindset shift are visible all around our campuses.”

Phil Korbel, Co-Founder of the Carbon Literacy Project, said: “The College's world first is a great example of how climate action enables any organisation to thrive and it's a testament to the hard work of all the staff and students who made it possible.

“This inspiring achievement is one for any educator to emulate – especially in what it means for a community transitioning from its historic reliance on coal mining to a clean power future. Every student there is now better prepared for being part of the 21st century workforce.”

The Carbon Literacy Project, founded in 2011, supports organisations across sectors to deliver climate education and drive sustainable action.

Barnsley College had previously achieved Bronze and Silver Carbon Literate Educator (CLE) status, but has now become the first provider ever to reach Gold – a standard recognising sustained, whole-organisation impact.

The College was also one of just three organisations in the country to receive the CLAD Catalyst Award in 2023 – for its dedication to tackling climate change through climate education and action, expanding Carbon Literacy Action Day into a full week of activities and delivering training to more than 800 students.