Green Gown Awards 2021: Sustainability Champion–Staff-Staffordshire University,Dr E. Atkins-Finalist

Dr Eleanor Atkins

Since joining the University as a lecturer in September 2019, I have worked collaboratively with the leadership of the University, sharing experiences and passion for improving the environment both locally and globally. As well as advising the University on its own biodiversity and sustainability activities, I am also now advising our local authority. My students and I apply academic theory through real-world learning to create beautiful, biodiverse landscapes within our own university campus, via our involvement in the on-campus construction projects as well as the Wild Staffs project, driving positive changes for the environment, biodiversity, aesthetics, and sustainability.

I have developed several initiatives and projects which aim to motivate my students, colleagues and engage members of the community to become more sustainable, providing them with the tools and knowledge to make positive change to protect and value the biodiversity of their own environments.

Top 3 learnings:

1. Persistence is important, if you see the value of something, strive to make it happen.
2. The value that real-world projects bring to students’ confidence and enthusiasm.
3. Be approachable and enthusiastic and people will be enthusiastic and accepting of your ideas.

Videos

• Video #1 (click to hide)