A FREE training course to help residents understand the impact of climate change and what they can take tackle it has been launched.
The training, a collaboration between the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), has been set up as part of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games’ wider sustainability ambition to create a carbon neutral legacy for the region.
The course will be offered to all of the Birmingham 2022 volunteers but will also be made available to all West Midlands residents.
In linewith The Carbon Literacy Project, the training aims to empower individuals so they know what they can do differently to create a positive impact and also influence others to take action.
Jess Fidler, head of sustainability for the Games, said: “Birmingham 2022 set an ambition to be the first Commonwealth Games to create a carbon neutral legacy, so educating and empowering people to understand more about this important topic is an important part of that legacy.
“Climate Change can be an overwhelming topic and informing yourself is such an important first step.
“The course covers the science behind climate change, how it affects both the world and our region and how you can influence others to drive action and what you can do personally.”
Seven key pillars formed part of Birmingham 2022’s sustainability pledge, with the first aimed at addressing carbon and air quality, with cleaner transport options among its plans.
The other pillars include delivering new conservation initiatives, promoting social value through job growth and volunteering roles and ensuring human rights are abided by all contractors and suppliers associated with Birmingham 2022.
Councillor Ian Courts, leader of Solihull Council and WMCA portfolio holder for environment and energy, said: “This Carbon Literacy training is such a good opportunity for the West Midlands to build upon the carbon neutral legacy of the Commonwealth Games.
“Many people want to do something good for the environment, but they often don’t know how to make the most positive impact.
“This training means that residents of the West Midlands and volunteers of the Games can gain valuable knowledge and understanding on environment issues and reducing carbon impact, allowing them to incorporate positive actions on climate change into their everyday routines.
“I hope that many residents will sign up for this course and will in turn feel informed on climate change, as well as empowered to take positive sustainable action.”
The course is spilt into four modules, the first three are self-led, e-learning modules with the fourth and final session being an online facilitated workshop.
Learners can complete these at their own pace, with no obligations. Those who successfully complete the course will receive accreditation from the Carbon Literacy Project as being fully Carbon Literate.
To find out more and register interest visit the WMCA website.
