Student-led sustainability in action

Student interest in sustainability has long been evident at Essex, but the launch of the Sustainable Students Society (SSS) in October 2024 marked a significant step forward in formalising that energy into action. Emerging from the enthusiasm of students on the Essex Preparation Programme and Masters Preparation Programme, the society was born during Welcome Week, driven by a shared passion for addressing environmental and social challenges on campus and beyond.

Officially recognised by the Students’ Union in November 2024, the SSS has quickly become a dynamic and inclusive hub for sustainability activity at Essex.

Building a sustainable community

The society is currently home to 25 members, with around 10 regularly involved in meetings and events. Led by a five-person executive committee—including representation from the Southend campus—the group has prioritised accessibility by offering free membership to all students.

Luca Gugolz, a final-year undergraduate in Management and Marketing, leads the team as President, alongside Daniela Ramirez-Pardo, Vice-President and a postgraduate student on the Environmental Futures MA, and Sebastien Inchauste Andrade, also on the Environmental Futures MA, among other student leaders. Their collective vision: to provide practical, engaging opportunities for students to participate in sustainability, regardless of academic background.

Events that engage and educate

Since its formation, SSS has delivered a varied programme of activities designed to raise awareness and spark conversation. Highlights include:

• Climate Café during COP29: A space for students to openly discuss climate issues and share personal concerns, aligning with global climate dialogues.
• Bird watching with Green Thumbs (VTeam): An activity that encouraged connection with nature and drew attention to on-campus biodiversity.
• Mini Freshers’ Fair and Offer Holder Day: Outreach opportunities that used sustainability-themed games and conversation starters to engage new and prospective students.
• 50-Hour podcast with Enactus Society: A collaborative charity event raising funds for a local food bank, while discussing the role of young people in sustainability and climate action.
• Clothes swap and upcycling fashion show (with the VTeam): Highlighted fast fashion’s environmental impact while promoting reuse and creativity.
• Random Acts of Kindness Day: Plant giveaways to promote positivity, wellbeing, and environmental responsibility.
• Sustainability Awareness Week: Hosted interactive stalls, sustainability-themed games, and a chair yoga session tied to SDG3 (Good Health and Well-Being).

Representation and recognition

In recognition of their growing role on campus, the society was recently invited to present at the university’s Environmental Sustainability Action Group (ESAG). Their presentation, which highlighted student-led initiatives and future plans, led to an invitation to formally join ESAG as student representatives. This provides the society with an important platform to influence university sustainability strategy and ensure student voices are reflected in policy and planning discussions.

The society has also been awarded Bronze and Silver at the Sustainable Essex Awards, reflecting its contributions to sustainability leadership and student engagement.

Looking ahead

The Sustainable Students Society continues to grow in confidence, capacity, and visibility. With strong peer leadership, institutional recognition, and a clear sense of purpose, the society offers a practical model for how students can take the lead in building a more sustainable university culture.

By combining grassroots action with strategic engagement, the SSS is helping to shape the future of sustainability at Essex—not just as a topic of study, but as a lived experience on campus.