Welcome to Oxford: A guide to sustainable engagement and student life

I want to learn

Oxford aims to offer all students the opportunity to study environmental sustainability, whether in or outside the examined curriculum. Here are a few ways for you to expand your knowledge and understanding:  

The Vice-Chancellor's Colloquium on Climate Change, offered in Hilary term, is a unique, interdisciplinary programme open to all undergraduate and postgraduate students in Oxford. 

The programme includes keynote lectures, interdisciplinary group discussions/activities across Oxford Colleges, projects and a summer micro-internship. Discover more about the programme.

Student societies and campaigns - Oxford is home to several brilliant environmental student societies that offer further learning, networking and experience in delivering environmental work. Apart from being a fun way to meet like-minded people, it is a great way to understand the professional world and develop employability skills such as project management, leadership and teamwork. View the student society list. 

The School of Climate Change, offered by the Oxford Climate Society (a student-run society), is an award-winning 8-week course that brings together researchers, experts, and activists from diverse fields of the climate crisis. Explore the School of Climate Change.

Oxford Events offers a wealth of lectures and seminars open to all students, presenting work from across the University. You may filter talks by collection (e.g., biodiversity), department or keywords. Discover Oxford events.

I want to take action

Green Impact: Join or create a Green Impact team in your college or department. This award-winning programme provides a toolkit of simple, practical actions to improve sustainability in the University, in line with the Environmental Sustainability strategy.  

Learn more about the programme and about the Green Impact 2026-27.

LEAF (Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework): Suitable for students working in labs, LEAF is a programme designed to improve the sustainability and efficiency of laboratory practices. By participating in LEAF, labs can reduce their environmental impact and earn bronze, silver or gold accreditation.  

I want to live sustainably

Oxford offers a range of opportunities to live sustainably.

Read our guide.

The Environmental Sustainability team offers

• Free Cycle Training: Whether you're a novice cyclist or want to build confidence on Oxford's streets, you can access up to six hours of free cycle training. Provided by Broken Spoke Bike Co-op, this training is accredited to the national Bikeability standard and covers everything from basic handling to navigating complex traffic situations. Sign up to the training.
• Bike Doctor: Keep your bike in top condition with Oxford's "Bike Doctor" sessions. These on-campus maintenance and repair services are offered at various locations. Labour is free; you only pay for the parts. Follow the Students' Union announcements for additional sessions.  
• Attend a workshop or events: The Sustainability team hosts occasional workshops, talks and events throughout the year. These are great opportunities to learn new skills, expand your knowledge, and network with others passionate about sustainability.