I moved from Brisbane to Launceston in 2023 to study an accelerated Bachelor of Business, majoring in marketing. I came here for the course, and everything else since has been a bonus. I absolutely love the slower-paced lifestyle, colder weather and sheer beauty of Tasmania.
I am incredibly grateful for the fantastic opportunities that the University has to offer and, as a Student Ambassador, I am exposed to their sustainability achievements and initiatives on a regular basis. But how do they affect the student experience?
Sustainability woven into studies
Within my studies, sustainability is woven into the coursework to show that it is possible in all areas of business, particularly through a focus on corporate social responsibility, and how it extends to environmental stewardship, carbon accounting and the like. By incorporating sustainability into the curriculum, we gain a forward-thinking perspective that is increasingly valued in the job market and life beyond studying.
Living on campus
Living on campus, in student accommodation, we see that the University’s efforts are not just in pursuit of accolades but are foundational to the way that we operate. We live alongside laykila/the North Esk River and have a fantastic Community Garden on our doorstep, which we contribute compost to and collect food from. Walking through the garden is my favourite part of the day, although it is a rather brief three-minute commute to class.
Of course, there are more obvious contributions such as compostable cafe packaging, efficient lighting and a vast array of colourful bins across campus. Admittedly, the motion-sensor lights add an element of grandeur as they gradually turn on when walking into an empty room, not dissimilar to an on-stage spotlight.
As a student, I am proud to be part of an institution that leads by example, demonstrating that sustainability is not just a goal but a way of life. By embedding sustainability into every aspect of campus life, the University of Tasmania ensures that we are well-prepared to make a positive impact in our professional and personal lives.
Sustainability in campus life
It can look like:
- Living on campus, reducing travel emissions
- Sustainability principles built into a wide range of disciplines
- A Sustainability Major that be studied as part of almost any degree
- Community Garden on campus at Inveresk
- All takeaway cups, cutlery and packaging provided by on-campus cafes are compostable
Main image: Annabel Lauder on campus with classmates.
This story features in the August 2024 edition of The Hobart + Launceston Magazine - a collection of stories that celebrate and highlight the unique work being undertaken by our institution, and the people within it, to deliver a more fair, equitable and sustainable society.
Explore sustainability at the University of Tasmania and how you can get involved.
As we aim to be a global, sustainable and responsible leading institution, our efforts align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.