Free Carbon Literacy training courses made available in the West Midlands

A training course has been launched in the West Midlands with the aim of helping residents understand the impacts of climate change and how they can help tackle it.

The training is a collaboration between the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA and Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).

The programme has been set up as part of the Commonwealth Games' sustainability ambition to create a carbon neutral legacy for the region.

The aim of the training is to empower people to know how they can create a positive impact and encourage others to take action.

The course is being offered to all Birmingham 2022 volunteers, as well as all West Midlands residents.

Learners can complete the course at their own pace. The course has four modules, with the first three being self-led e-learing modules and the fourth being an online workshop. Successful learners will receive an accreditation from the Carbon Literacy Project as being fully Carbon Literate.

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands and chair of the WMCA, said: “After a successful Commonwealth Games with sustainability at its heart, it is important that we continue to work together right across our region to strive towards a carbon neutral legacy.

“Given our own #WM2041 net zero commitment, I’m pleased to hear that we’re encouraging sign ups to our free Carbon Literacy course for Games volunteers and many others to take advantage of.

“By working together, we can further reduce our carbon footprint, inspire one another to make positive change and help tackle the climate emergency.”

Birmingham 2022's sustainability pledge had seven pillars, including addressing carbon and air quality; promoting a circular economy which encourages waste reduction; delivering new conservation initiatives; improving accessibility; imbedding equality, diversity and inclusion beyond the Games; promoting social value through job growth and volunteering roles and ensuring human rights are abided by all contractors and suppliers associated with Birmingham 2022.

Cllr 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.”

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