How did becoming Carbon Literate impact you? How have you used what you learned in your own life?

I have been quite fortunate in the sense that sustainability, global warming and carbon responsibility have been included in my learning journey with school and the local community, however it was not until coming to Manchester Met and having a Unit called Nutrition 21 that opened my eyes to how many different actions have an impact on climate change. From this unit, I was inspired to learn more about Carbon Literacy and the unit tutor led me to the course. I now incorporate the training into various choices I make within my life and I encourage those around me to understand the value of Carbon Literacy and how to alter their own lifestyles to help reach carbon zero goals.

Would you recommend the Carbon Literacy training to other students? Why?

Without the Carbon Literacy training, I would still be at the base level knowledge of the 3R’s and switching off electricals which were not in use. Now I understand that there is so much more, from eating preferences to cooking habits, shopping choices and leisure activities too.

What made you want to take the next step and become a Carbon Literacy trainer? How would you describe that experience?

I was trained in Carbon Literacy by inspirational students and a highly experienced Carbon Literacy leader – Jane Mӧrk. It was their passion that compelled me to do more than just sit down on a Carbon Literacy Certificate and keep all that knowledge to myself and close ones. Becoming a trainer meant that I could share the knowledge and hopefully inspire people from far and wide. The experience has allowed me to become more confident and bolder, which has helped in other areas of my life such as public engagement. It has also allowed me to be calmer when coming across tasks involving presenting information to peers, staff or other students.

What benefits do you see in becoming a Carbon Literacy trainer? What advice would you give to anyone interested in becoming a trainer?

Becoming a Carbon Literacy trainer has boosted my confidence, self-esteem, and self-acceptance.

The best advice I can give is to remain calm when presenting and training, be open to the fact that some students/participants may know something you were unaware of and be grateful for that piece of new knowledge; at the same time if a participant ever asks you something that you are not entirely sure of, be bold and brave enough to say that you do not yet know that information but you are interested to do your own research on the said topic. Nobody knows everything that there is to know about everything. Each day brings new experiences and knowledge. Wisdom and knowledge come with time.

Is there anything else you’d like to say?

If you are thinking about becoming Carbon Literate or taking the next step in Carbon Literacy, GO FOR IT!

If you are interested in Carbon Literacy training, or becoming a trainer yourself, email carbonliteracy@mmu.ac.uk.