From city centre clean-ups to green careers inspiration, Derby College Group is placing sustainability firmly at the heart of college life, encouraging students and staff alike to take practical steps that make a real difference.
Go Green Week reflects the college’s long-term commitment to environmental responsibility, embedding sustainable thinking not only in curriculum and campus operations, but also in everyday behaviours.
Mollie Cox, Environmental and Sustainability Officer, said:
“Go Green Week is about showing that sustainability is not a separate agenda; it is part of who we are as a college community.
“Every small action matters. Whether that is travelling more sustainably, reducing waste or learning about green careers, we want our students and staff to feel empowered to take ownership of the future.”
Go Green Fayre with the University of Derby
A highlight of the week will be the Go Green Fair, delivered in partnership with the University of Derby at the Cavendish Building.
Students can explore more than 25 stalls showcasing local green organisations, attend 20-minute keynote sessions focused on green careers and sustainability projects, and experience the University’s new Cavendish Building, designed to meet net-zero carbon standards using low-carbon and recycled materials.
The event offers a unique opportunity for students to connect environmental awareness with future career pathways, while also experiencing university life and sustainable building design in action.
Big Derby clean up and nature walk on March 4
Students and staff will also step out into the community for the big Derby clean-up and nature walk, supporting local green spaces across Derby city centre.
The clean-up starting at 2 pm will take participants through hidden green areas alongside Markeaton Brook, finishing near the Joseph Wright Centre.
It is a hands-on opportunity to improve local environments while reinforcing the value of civic responsibility and collective action.
We would love to see as many volunteers as possible come and support the big clean up.
Just come and meet us at the bottom of the A38 footbridge (by Markeaton Park) at 2.00 pm. Please wear suitable footwear as we will be going around on foot!
Library pop-up stalls championing sustainability
Across campus, the library team will host pop-up stalls demonstrating how libraries actively champion sustainability through reducing waste, encouraging reuse and promoting environmentally responsible learning resources.
These sessions will highlight the everyday ways in which sustainability is already embedded within college services.
Staff green action challenge
Staff are being encouraged to take part in the green action challenge, demonstrating how they are incorporating sustainability into their daily lives.
From travel choices to consumption habits and time spent connecting with nature, the challenge aims to showcase positive behaviours and inspire others.
Planet Earth Games Competition
Adding a competitive edge, Derby College Group is taking part in planet earth games, going head-to-head with further education colleges across the UK.
Students can earn points for the college by completing quick, accessible, sustainable activities, logging their actions online and contributing to a collective effort that raises awareness while keeping environmental action engaging and inclusive.
By combining education, community engagement and practical action, Go Green Week demonstrates how environmental responsibility can be both inspiring and achievable.
As activities unfold across campuses and within the wider community, the message is clear. Sustainability is not just a theme for one week. It is a shared responsibility and a defining priority for Derby College Group.
