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Climate Justice Week is here, and there is no better time to reflect on the urgent need for climate action and the important role we can all play in driving change. This article takes a look at some of the fantastic student-led events running this week and at how you can play your part at a local level, right here at Sussex. 

Climate Justice Week at Sussex 

Climate Justice Week aims to foster a sustainable and just society. The climate and ecological crises are deeply intertwined with issues of social justice, racism, and colonial legacies, and addressing these requires systemic change. Throughout the week, a variety of student-led events are running, from craft nights using recycled materials to interactive panel discussions on the concept of ecocide law, head over to the Students’ Union website to see the full list and get involved. 

Biodiversity efforts at Sussex 

The themes of Climate Justice Week are not just global issues; they are deeply relevant to our local environment here at Sussex. Our unique location in the Sussex South Downs National Park and UNESCO biosphere means we have both an opportunity and a responsibility to make our campus as biodiverse as possible.  

The University’s goal is to increase the percentage of campus land set aside for nature from 38% to 42% by December 2027. Part of that change is Love Your Scrub, a rewilding initiative focused on expanding scrub habitats on campus. This project aims to expand scrub habitat on the University of Sussex campus to boost biodiversity and promote the benefits of spending time in nature.  

A sign created by artist Daniel Locke and the Love Your Scrub illustrating scrub in the winter. Find out about all four seasons.

Scrub habitats, composed of woody shrubs and small trees like hawthorn, blackthorn, and hazel, support a diverse range of species, including rare plants, insects, birds, and mammals. Despite its ecological importance, scrub often faces negative perceptions as untidy and invasive. The project seeks to change this view by highlighting scrub's role in conservation and rewilding efforts. 

If you want to explore future ideas to solve the key sustainability challenges we are facing on campus, you can join one of the Sustainability by Design sessions in the next few weeks.

Sustainability and social justice societies you can get involved with 

There are some fantastic student societies here at Sussex focussed on sustainability initiatives and on social justice issues. If you’re looking to get more involved here are a few that may be of interest. 

Wild at Sussex: This society brings together nature-loving individuals to explore the green spaces around Sussex. They organise picnics, walks, pub quizzes, and talks, and encourage biodiversity recording on campus. Follow @SussexWildlifeSociety on Instagram. 

Food Waste Cafe Sussex: This student-led environmental and social enterprise collects surplus ingredients to reduce food waste. They organise cafés and food stalls where volunteers cook meals with saved surplus food, providing a sustainable and accessible option for everyone. Follow @foodwastecafe_sussex on Instagram. 

Sussex Forest Food Garden Society: Meets every Thursday to maintain and develop the Forest Garden on campus. Follow @forestgardensussex on Instagram. 

Roots (Communal Gardening) Society: Meets on Wednesdays and Sundays on the campus allotment. Follow @sussexroots on Instagram. 

International Development Society (DevSoc): DevSoc is for any student interested in international development, not just those studying it! It engages students in social and academic debates on development studies. They host events and socials to discuss international development issues and foster a community of like-minded individuals. Follow @devsocsussex on Instagram. 

Sussex STAR (Student Action for Refugees): This society is part of a national charity that educates, campaigns, and fundraises to create a safer and more welcoming environment for refugees. They host educational events, fundraisers, and volunteer opportunities. Follow @starsussex on Instagram. 

Freedom from Torture: This society isa passionate student group supporting and raising awareness for Freedom from Torture, a UK-based charity dedicated to helping refugees and asylum seekers rebuild their lives.   

By participating in ongoing biodiversity and social justice efforts, students at Sussex can contribute to meaningful change and help create a more sustainable and equitable future for all. This week is the perfect time to get involved.