Students take part in Sustainable Global Experience in Amsterdam

The programme, hosted and delivered by Pagoda Projects, took place between 21 July and 1 August and was open to all undergraduate students. In total 15 students took part, coming from across the University’s colleges.  

Before setting off on the trip, participants had the opportunity to get trained and certified in Carbon Literacy. The training explored the science of climate change, the carbon impacts of individual and organisational activities and the role of governments, businesses and individuals in driving climate action. The course also supported students in creating personal pledges to reduce emissions, developing their awareness and motivation to take climate action in their future careers.

A week later the students embarked on the five-night sustainability field trip to Amsterdam, Netherlands, where they worked with industry professionals to further their understanding of circular economy principles, sustainable business practices, community-based urban regeneration and climate policy simulation.  

Highlights of the visit included a welcome dinner at Robin Food, a volunteer-run vegan restaurant committed to community-building and low-impact living. Students also explored Northern Amsterdam through the Circular and Creative Amsterdam North walking tour led by Cornelia Dinca from Sustainable Amsterdam, showcasing how post-industrial areas have been transformed into thriving sustainable communities. They also visited De Ceuvel, which was was initially designed to regenerate inaccessible and polluted urban land and now features trendy workspaces for artists and entrepreneurs, a cultural venue, an independent café and a floating Bed and Breakfast.

Erik de Groot, Founder of Boldwill, formerly known as Iron Roots, introduced students to his sustainable sportswear brand and shared insights into running an environmentally responsible business. This was followed by a climate policy simulation hosted by Anna Sycheva, Chief Executive Officer at LEAF, using the En-ROADS Climate Action Simulation model to help students understand the systems-level changes needed to limit global warming.

During the week, students also worked on their own projects, researching a company of their choice and delivering a presentation on the penultimate day of the trip, detailing the sustainability-related considerations their chosen company makes each day.

This opportunity was brought to the students in collaboration with the University’s Student Mobility team who are responsible for delivering and supporting a range of global opportunities for Westminster students. In addition, the programme was funded via an endowment fund from a group of donors supporting international activities for students at Westminster.  

Reflecting on her experience, Dafne Silvagni, Psychology BSc Honours student, said: “Growing up, sustainability was a core family value, so participating in this programme was deeply meaningful. Thanks to the University’s global experience scholarship, I was honoured to represent it abroad and expand my eco-awareness. As a young mother and academic, I’m committed to leading by example and integrating these values into my life and work. Visiting De Ceuvel showed how sustainability can be both impactful and stylish. I believe initiatives like the Carbon Action Pledge should be standard in education, helping us reflect, change and inspire others.”

Salma Hersi, Architecture BA Honours student, added: “As a first-year Architecture student about to enter my second year, this experience has been truly informative and life-changing. The workshops, field trips and collaborative projects have deepened my understanding of sustainability, global challenges and innovative architectural practices in a way that no classroom alone could offer. Exploring Amsterdam’s sustainable urban solutions and engaging with international peers has inspired me both academically and personally. I am grateful for the chance to grow, network and learn firsthand about the urgent environmental and social issues shaping our built environment.”

The programme directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and 13: Climate Action. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.

Learn more about the University of Westminster’s commitment to Sustainable Development.