Student-led solutions for a sustainable future
Open SU is committed to empowering students to tackle the world's most pressing challenges through innovative, impactful projects that create positive change in communities locally and globally. Through our Sustainability Impact Award programme, Open SU and The Open University are providing funding and support for student-led initiatives that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and demonstrate measurable impact across environmental, social and economic aims.
Student-led initiatives have the power to drive real transformation in addressing complex global challenges such as climate change, inequality, poverty and sustainable development. This award recognises that students possess unique perspectives, energy and creativity that can contribute significantly to building a more sustainable and equitable future.
Our programme supports projects that demonstrate innovation, collaboration, community engagement, scalability and alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), demonstrated by creative impact measures. Whether developing environmental solutions, addressing social challenges or creating economically sustainable initiatives, we encourage students to think boldly and act decisively in pursuit of meaningful impact.
Through the Sustainability Impact Awards, we hope to invest in changemakers who will help build a more sustainable, equal and prosperous world.
One available grant
Environmental Sustainability Impact Award, £500
Grants of up to £500 are available for student-led projects that create measurable environmental impact in your community or beyond through:
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Climate change mitigation and adaptation initiatives
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Biodiversity conservation and ecosystem restoration
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Sustainable resource management and circular economy solutions
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Renewable energy and clean technology development
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Waste reduction and recycling programmes
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Environmental education and awareness campaigns
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Sustainable transport and mobility solutions
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Water conservation and pollution prevention
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Sustainable agriculture and food systems
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Projects must demonstrate clear environmental outcomes, community engagement and potential for replication or scaling beyond the initial implementation.
Who can apply?
Current Open University students who are members of Open SU (undergraduate or postgraduate) working individually or in teams. Collaboration with local businesses, social enterprises and economic development organisations is encouraged.
Only individuals (who are Open University students and are members of Open SU) are eligible to apply. Students applying for the award must be starting a brand-new project.
Members of Open SU are defined by Section 11 of the Articles of Association. All students registered with The Open University are automatically members of Open SU. If you are unclear if you are currently registered, please check the OU's Conditions of Registration Section A4, Registration, and your student record. Honorary Life Membership and extended membership qualify as members of Open SU.
Private businesses, for-profit organisations, parish and town councils, charities, community and voluntary groups, clubs, not-for-profit organisations, School PTAs, ‘Friends of’ groups and religious bodies are not eligible to apply.
To be eligible for any Sustainability Impact Award, applicants must show: a clear understanding of sustainability principles, including long-term thinking, preventing unintended consequences, involving a diversity of stakeholders, collaboration, and integration; and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goalss and the University’s sustainability approach.
Location
Projects can be implemented in your local community, nationally, or internationally, but must be led by Open University students.
Contact information
For questions about the Sustainability Impact Award programme, please contact:
Email: oustudents-projects@open.ac.uk
Phone: 01908 638427
Address: Open University Student Union, Betty Boothroyd Library, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA
Open SU staff: Ciara Linehan, Projects Officer
Student Support: Jethro Tieman, Sustainability Representative
Apply here