Submitted by Susannah Cook on Wed, 2022-07-20 09:13
What does your position involve?
As Sustainable Transport Intern, I will be reviewing Building Travel Plans across the University of Cambridge Estate to ensure they are consistent with the University’s Transport Strategy. A travel plan is a package of measures aimed at promoting sustainable travel within an organisation or specific site, with an emphasis on reducing reliance on single occupancy car travel. Building on my findings, I will update the Estates Division Travel Plan Guidance, which is shared with transport consultancies developing Travel Plans on the University’s behalf. This could also feed into early conversations about the next University Transport Strategy, which will be launched in 2024.
What is your (education/qualification) background and how did you get here?
I have just finished my second year studying for an English BA at the University of Cambridge, and will be entering my third year this autumn, with a climate focussed dissertation on the cards.
What were you doing before joining the Sustainability Team?
My most recent project was leading the 2022 Cambridge Climate and Sustainability Forum, a two-day annual event aimed at increasing awareness of climate change, organised by students with support from Cambridge Hub. This year’s theme was ‘A Climate Reset', centred around recalibrating our responses to the climate crisis by understanding it within a network of systemic inequalities. The team sought to emphasise intersectionality, looking outside the Western narrative, and creativity, hosting an art exhibition and speakers with backgrounds in acting and filmmaking.
Do you have any hobbies?
I’m a big foodie, and I love nothing more than trying out new vegetarian / vegan recipes and restaurants. I also enjoy running and walking, and I’m part of an avid (overcompetitive?) board games family.
What do you think is the biggest environmental challenge?
Governments! It’s very frustrating how much power a national government can have to ignore the total urgency of the climate crisis, so working on local responses to local issues with the Sustainability Team is really empowering.
What is your environment-related pet hate?
The amount of unnecessary plastic packaging on fruit and vegetables at supermarkets. Especially cucumbers.
What is your favourite green gadget?
My three in one outdoor cutlery set. Super helpful for picnics, days out and Meal Deals, to avoid using single use cutlery.