Linnaeus University tops Climate Students ranking
Linnaeus University was awarded first place in the Climate Students rankings for 2024, an award that celebrates the university’s achievements in climate work and sustainability. The ranking compares sustainability work across Swedish universities and is based on three main categories: reduction of CO2 emissions from planes, an ambitious climate action plan and its implementation. Linnaeus University has distinguished itself through this solid climate action plan.
"We are happy and proud, but we still think there is a lot left to do" Paula Schneewind and Sam Willeke say, students at Linnaeus University and members of the nationwide association Climate Students.
Climate Students commitment
The Climate Students at Linnaeus University are involved in driving the climate work forward. Through close collaboration with the university’s sustainability coordinators, the association has contributed to keeping climate issues in focus, both among students and at university level. However, they see room for improvement, especially in regards to communication between the university and the students.
"We know that from our contact with the sustainability coordinators that a lot is being done for the environment, but that information does not always reach the students. Additionally, we think that the climate action plan deserves more attention" Paula explains.
Challenges and opportunities
Despite the success, there is still work to be done. One of the biggest challenges is to get more departments within the university to cooperate with the students on climate issues. The Climate Students hope that the first place in the ranking can motivate Linnaeus University to continue maintaining a high level of ambition in climate issues.
"We hope that this inspires the university to strengthen its commitment and to collaborate even more with the students in the future" Sam says.
Pride in initiative and programs
Linnaeus University already offers several initiatives and educations with a focus on sustainability, for example, the program for Design + Change and the engineering program in energy and environment. These educations are a few examples among many that prepare students to face some of the biggest challenges of our time, something that the Climate Students are especially proud of.
An association that makes a differences
The Climate Students, which consists of approximately 12 active members across various educational fields, aim to contribute to solutions to climate issues and create a community for like-minded people.
"The environment and nature are close to our hearts, and we want to be a part of the solution" the members say.
With this success, the Climate Students hope that the ranking will not only give recognition to previous efforts, but also incentive for future climate work.