Sustain UnConference returns for second year | News

October 2025

SUSTAIN UnConference returns to turn conversations into action

By Claire Huggins

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On Thursday 30 October, University College Birmingham (UCB) welcomes back Sustain - The Midlands Sustainability UnConference for a second year.

If you’re looking to be talked at or presented to – you’re in the wrong place.

In a break away from the traditional conference environment, it’s the participants that set the agenda on the day, deciding what to discuss and how to resolve some of the most pressing sustainability challenges they face.

Through a series of facilitator-led ‘mastermind’ sessions, the attendees’ passion and dedication to sustainable practices can be explored and tested, drawing on lived experience, successes and failures, and collaborating with the people in the room to actively drive change.

"It's a real joy for University College Birmingham to be hosting the Sustain UnConference again this year,” said Ashlea Mallett, Head of Sustainability and Campus Services for the University.

“It's a privilege to be at the forefront of trail-blazing events like this and I am personally excited to dive into a mastermind session or two! We're really looking forward to showcasing what sustainability in the Midlands is really about!"

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SUSTAIN UnConference 2024 delegates gather

"It's a real joy for University College Birmingham to be hosting the Sustain UnConference again. It's a privilege to be at the forefront of trail-blazing events like this!"

Ashlea Mallett Head of Sustainability and Campus Services

By joining activists, leaders and practitioners from across the Midlands on the day, attendees can expect to be right in the thick of things from the start:

Move in or move on: pick and choose which sessions you attend
Listen or lead: do you want to listen and learn, or will you lead?
Pitch a point: if there’s something you’re passionate about, we’re all ears

Camden House, home to sixth form students at University College Birmingham, is all set to receive an unprecedented number of attendees at this year’s event:

“We are proud to host the Sustain UnConference that brings together professionals, innovators and curious minds from across the region,” said Rebecca Tigue, Sixth Form Principal and Chair of the University’s Sustainability Steering Group.

“The unique format moves sustainability beyond discussion and into authentic, practical solutions. This conference is about collaboration, courage and commitment to a future, where sustainability is truly lived.”

Embodying the spirit of collaboration and mutual commitment to sustainability gains, the Sustain UnConference is sponsored by university partners:

Glasdon: a market leader in the supply of environmental and safety products, and supplier of our waste bins across campus.

"Glasdon is a UK award-winning industry leader of high quality and long-lasting environmental products, committed to reaching Net-Zero for direct emissions by 2025, and 2035 for indirect emissions," said James Secker, Area Sales Manager for Glasdon UK Ltd.

“We share the University's dedication to embedding sustainable practices across their campus and community, and are proud sponsors of the Sustain UnConference event this year."

SUEZ: recycling and waste management, pioneers of sustainable solutions and innovative technologies for the UK’s circular economy.

“As UCB’s waste management partner, SUEZ Recycling and Recovery UK is delighted to once again sponsor the Sustain UnConference," said Dominic Gale, Key Account Manager, SUEZ recycling and recovery UK.

"The event offers a valuable platform to discuss all things sustainability, connecting like-minded individuals with changemakers, and empowering collaboration, innovation, and meaningful action.

“Our purpose as an organisation is to ‘build a sustainable future that doesn't cost the earth; fulfilling this purpose begins with spaces like this - sparking awareness and laying the groundwork for lasting, sustainable change. We look forward to building on the success of the 2024 launch and continuing to drive progress together.”

Attendees will also be able to enjoy a full, climate-conscious menu of breakfast, lunch and snacks across the day, courtesy of Birmingham-based event partner, ChangeKitchen. This catering community interest company (CIC) puts ethical, locally-sourced, organic food at the heart of every dish they create.

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