• The university aims to prepare students to cater to the needs of sustainable markets by equipping them with critical skills in sustainability and consulting.
• Green jobs are on the rise and play an increasing role in building a sustainable world.

The final-year business students at the University of Brighton in the UK are getting an opportunity to help local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) reduce their carbon emissions.

As part of a new module, students at the university's School of Business and Law will gain real-world consulting experience and hone their critical skills in sustainability, consultancy, and data analysis in a job market where there is an increasing demand for these types of skills, and offer free support to businesses.

Economics BSc (Hons) student Emerson Fawcett, said: “Part of why I chose to study Economics at Brighton is because it has such a progressive course. I like that it follows what's happening in the world and rises to meet evolving industry needs.

"I think having a module like this is invaluable; the fact that there are multiple businesses ready to embrace this with us just goes to show how important carbon accounting is and how reducing carbon emissions is not only good for the planet but good for firms. I am genuinely excited to go to class, I feel like I'm doing something worthwhile."

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They will analyse actual carbon data from local businesses instead of using hypothetical case studies. They will also use the Clean Growth Platform’s carbon calculator, which aligns with UK government standards, to track and assess emissions and develop practical reduction strategies for each company's needs.

Participating businesses include companies involved in construction, food, leisure, education, and healthcare. These companies give students an opportunity to prepare for the future and gain practical industry exposure.

Dr Vincent Kane, Senior Lecturer, School of Business and Law and module leader, added: “From my work as facilitator on Help to Grow: Management, I know how keen the companies are to work with students on practical projects that are mutually beneficial. At its core, this experience is about giving students an edge. Not all of them have the networks that help secure internships or placements, so real-world projects like this are essential.

"They reinforce our roots in technical education, help students build market-ready skills, and give them something substantial to show in addition to a degree classification. Rather than a theoretical exercise, this mirrors the dynamic, fast-moving environment they’ll soon step into.”

The Clean Growth Platform has been running with the support of the university since 2014. Over a decade, it has helped more than 1,000 businesses develop sustainable products and services, generated hundreds of green jobs, and raised over £2 million for research and development.

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Source: University of Brighton