Inspiring positive change in the world of corporate sustainability

Louis Gruber studied Ecology and Conservation Biology at Leeds and graduated in 2022. He is now based in Cambridge and works for the Ministry of Defence. He also works as a Sustainability Consultant and Ecologist for Sustained Futures, a start-up social enterprise dedicated to closing the green skills gap inclusively.

Graduating from university, I found myself in the same position as many graduates: eager to make a positive impact but uncertain about the path ahead. My passion for conservation and sustainability, however, provided a clear direction. This blog aims to share my journey navigating the world of corporate sustainability and highlight the critical role of sustainability education in inspiring action among both senior professionals and the younger generation.

From Leeds to Leadership in Sustainability

During my time at the University of Leeds, I balanced my studies with a role in military intelligence for the British Army Reserves. This unique position allowed me to put forward policy documents on innovative methods to combat poaching in Africa, kickstarting my journey in conservation management.

Upon graduating, I joined Sustained Futures, a company focused on filling the green skills gap through education. Working alongside a dedicated team, I witnessed first hand the impact of engaging youth communities with fun and informative resources. This experience underscored the importance of sustainability education in fostering environmental responsibility among young people.

The corporate sustainability landscape

As a recent graduate entering the corporate sustainability sector, I quickly realised the significant responsibility leaders and stakeholders bear in making impactful decisions for the planet’s future. While innovative ideas and passionate individuals are plentiful, sustainability education within the corporate world remains limited. Companies worldwide face the challenge of upskilling 150 million people in under 10 years to bridge the green skills gap.

This education gap drew me to Sustained Futures, where I could leverage my skills and knowledge from university to make a meaningful difference. Our team of educators works tirelessly to provide young people and adults with the tools and frameworks necessary to drive positive change.

Inspiring action through education

Sustainability is more crucial now than ever. By equipping young people with engaging resources and fostering a deeper understanding of environmental protection, we can inspire the next generation to act. At Sustained Futures, our mission is to create environmentally responsible leaders who will make a positive impact on our planet.

Navigating the corporate sustainability sector has been an eye-opening experience. It’s clear that while knowledge and creative ideas abound, a lack of comprehensive education hinders progress. My journey has shown me that with passion, determination, and a network of like-minded individuals, we can push organisations to embed sustainability into their culture and values, moving beyond mere tick-box exercises.

Bridging the green skills gap

One of the most pressing challenges in corporate sustainability is the green skills gap. The rapid pace of technological advancements and evolving industry standards require a workforce that is not only knowledgeable but also adaptable. Companies need to invest in continuous learning and development programs to ensure their employees can meet the demands of sustainable practices.

At Sustained Futures, we have developed a range of educational initiatives aimed at bridging this gap. Our workshops, webinars, and interactive modules are designed to equip professionals with the necessary skills to implement sustainable strategies effectively. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, we can help businesses stay ahead of the curve and make a tangible impact on the environment.

Engaging senior professionals and the youth

It’s essential to recognise that sustainability education should not be confined to young people alone. Senior professionals, who often hold decision-making power, must also be engaged in these educational efforts. By providing tailored training programs for experienced professionals, we can ensure that sustainability becomes a core component of corporate strategy.

Moreover, creating platforms for intergenerational dialogue can facilitate the exchange of ideas and foster mutual learning. Young professionals bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions, while seasoned experts offer valuable insights and industry knowledge. This collaborative approach can drive meaningful change and inspire a collective commitment to sustainability.

Conclusion

Drawing from my experience as a recent graduate, my message is clear: despite the challenges posed by corporate greed and profit-focused mindsets, it is possible to make a significant impact. By fostering a passionate outlook, building supportive networks, and prioritising sustainability education, we can contribute to creating a more sustainable future. Let us inspire action within our alumni community and beyond, ensuring that sustainability becomes a core principle in all sectors.
Together, we can transform the corporate landscape, making sustainability an integral part of business operations. By bridging the green skills gap and engaging both senior professionals and the youth, we can create a climate-conscious community committed to protecting our planet for future generations.

This blog is part of the Leeds Alumni Voices series. The opinions expressed in these publication are those of the authors. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of the University of Leeds or its members. The designations employed in this publication and the presentation of material therein do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the University of Leeds.