Katie Major-Smith, PhD Student

Plymouth Marjon University

As a PhD student at Plymouth Marjon University, I have driven sustainable action across the University and more widely throughout the HE sector.

I am passionate about ensuring everyone is equipped with the skills to address the climate crisis and have implemented carbon literacy training at Plymouth Marjon University. I have also supported the University to become carbon neutral by 2030 by helping develop the University’s sustainability strategy and delivering a project in the café which reduced student and staff drink-based carbon footprint by 25-34%.

Alongside this, my work as a student commissioner for the Climate Commission for UK Higher and Further Education has helped strengthen sustainability in the wider university sector. Notable achievements include co-writing the COY16 Student Statement, consulting on the Department for Education’s Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy and representing the Climate Commission at COP26. I am also an advocate for stronger sustainable research practices in universities and have engaged UK researchers through multiple communication pieces.  

What the Judges Thought

As a PhD student at Plymouth Marjon University (PMU), Katie has driven sustainable action across the university and more widely throughout the HE sector including her work as a student commissioner for the Climate Commission for UK Higher and Further Education. Katie has spearheaded the implementation of carbon literacy training at PMU helping others to develop a better understanding of the causes and solutions to climate change and empowers people to take sustainable action in their personal life and at work.

Katie has also been at the heart of the University’s Sustainability Strategy Taskforce has helped develop a strong strategy to successfully reduce the university’s environmental impacts and make it carbon neutral by 2030. Katie’s work on alternatives to dairy and a move to plant-based alternatives has further demonstrated her commitment to engaging with others at the University and having a real impact across the community.

What it Means to Win

"I am absolutely delighted that Katie has been recognised for her sustainability activism and influence across our community. This award comes at a pivotal time for the University and will provide further impetus and inspiration for realising our ambitions related to sustainable and ethical living, working and learning."

Professor Claire Taylor, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive

Top 3 Learnings

1. We can all be inspired to take sustainable action if we are equipped with knowledge, skills, and support.
2. Students are passionate about sustainability and expect universities to lead the way in tackling the climate crisis.
3. Universities have enormous potential to mitigate climate change impacts through changing staff and students’ food habits.