The Early Career Researcher Sustainability Training School (ECR STS) Global recently concluded its second edition, marking another significant milestone in the journey towards fostering a transformative and transdisciplinary research culture at Warwick. Building on the success of ECR STS 1.0 held in June 2023, this year's event aimed to further enhance research, impact, and networking opportunities, while investing in a new generation of planet-conscious researchers dedicated to sustainable development.

ECR STS 2.0, held from 15th to 19th April 2024, expanded its reach across borders, bringing together early career researchers (ECRs) from 18 countries and 5 continents. Participants from Indonesia, the Philippines, Ghana, Nepal, Bangladesh, Turkey, South Africa, and Australia, among others. This global representation not only enriched the discussions but also highlighted the universality of the sustainability agenda. One of the hallmarks of ECR STS 2.0 was its focus on innovative training methods developed by Warwick researchers. Participants had the opportunity to engage in participatory film-making, serious games, and citizen assemblies, offering a unique and immersive learning experience.

A distinguishing feature of ECR STS 2.0 was the active involvement of IGSD Thematic Fellows and the inaugural cohort of ECRs as mentors and trainers. This mentorship model fostered collaboration, knowledge exchange, and peer learning, creating a supportive environment for professional growth and development. Additionally, partnerships with the EUTOPIA consortium and the Commonwealth Futures Climate Research Cohort, ACU, further enriched the experience, underscoring the importance of collaborative research initiatives in driving meaningful change.

ECR STS is not just a training programme; it is a catalyst for transformative action and collaboration. By convening policymakers, practitioners, and young researchers, ECR STS facilitates dialogue, knowledge sharing, and the co-creation of solutions to complex sustainability challenges. As Warwick's flagship initiative with a focus on sustainability, ECR STS is poised to become an initiative that crosses geographical boundaries and contributes to building a more sustainable future for all.

As we at IGSD reflect on the success of ECR STS 2.0, we are reminded of the collective effort and commitment towards advancing sustainable development goals. The diverse perspectives, innovative approaches, and collaborative spirit demonstrated during the training school, serve as a testament to the power of collective and relational action in addressing global challenges. Join us for STS 3.0 in 24/25!

In line with our ‘Way to Sustainable’ strategy, this report provides case studies under the headings of Research, Education, Operations and Engagement, however much of our activity spans these categories. Meeting the SDGs is by nature a collaborative effort, and we are proud of our University community stepping up to play their part.

As part of the report you can also read about IGSD researchers' effort to contribute to sustainable development. E.g. you can find information there about Heri's and Feng's research, and a wider reference to all our projects.

Please read the full report here: https://warwick.ac.uk/sustainability/what-we-are-doing/strategy/performance-reporting/un_sustainable_development_goals_report_2022-23.pdf

Prof Elena Korosteleva, Director IGSD is interviewed by The Independent about how heat and wildfires are putting tourism in Southern Europe at risk. Coverage also in The Daily Mail, MSN, Yahoo! The Washington Post and , Economic Times.

The University is firmly committed to the principles of sustainability and recognises that our activities impact upon the environment through our routine operations, infrastructural development, and our influence on the wider community.

Universities and colleges have a critical role to play in delivering the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and as such many, including University of Warwick, have signed The SDG Accord. This is a commitment learning institutions are making to one another to do more to deliver the goals, to annually report progress. We would like to further our understanding of our current contribution to the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals and ways in which this can be measured.

To support the University in updating its understanding of our current contribution towards the UN SDGs. For more information and to apply please see hereLink opens in a new window