Sustainability and Net Zero Introduction

Summary

Participants will explore the three pillars of sustainability - environmental, social, and economic - and the essential role the environment plays in supporting a healthy society and economy. Key topics include the challenges and opportunities of sustainable development, the importance of planning for a sustainable future, and the principles of Net Zero. The course equips participants with foundational knowledge on concepts such as planetary boundaries, carbon footprints, social value, and the economic benefits of sustainability. It also focuses on practical approaches to embedding sustainability into organisational policies, practices, and culture.

Who will benefit?

This course is designed for senior management, heads of service, managers, and operational staff who can influence and drive change. It supports participants in effectively communicating the importance of sustainability and climate action to colleagues, partners, and communities, fostering a culture of organisation-wide transformation.

Format

The course is delivered over a half-day and can be run in person or online. Sessions are interactive and include a mix of presentations, group discussions, games, quizzes, and videos.

Sessions

This course is offered as a half-day: 

• Morning sessions: 09:00 Start 12:30 Finish 
• Afternoon sessions: 13:00 Start 16:30 Finish

Learning Outcomes

• Understand the basic science of planetary boundaries and the global and local need for sustainability.
• Recognise their role in mobilising change within their organisation.
• Explore low-carbon objectives and policy drivers relevant to the public sector in Northern Ireland.
• Apply systems thinking in role-play scenarios to develop sustainable solutions.
• Develop an action plan to reduce carbon footprints and improve organisational sustainability.
• Learn strategies for influencing others to adopt sustainable practices.