Community

Greeniversity: building stronger, more sustainable communities

↑ Greeniversity is a hotbed of sustainable learning

If you’re interested in learning something new, or would perhaps like to share your own knowledge, then Greeniversity is the perfect scheme for you

Greeniversity is a green skill share initiative that gives people the opportunity to teach and learn everything from bee-keeping to bike maintenance, helping to create sustainable communities for the future. In a nutshell, Greeniversity helps people get together to share practical eco skills and information. Whether it’s cooking, growing, making or mending – anything goes as long as it’s green or helps build community spirit.

Launched by PECT in 2009, Greeniversity groups have since been popping up across the UK and there are now over 3,000 members, with thriving groups running regular free classes in Peterborough, Bristol, Manchester and Cambridge. ‘Greeniversity is so valuable because it builds community and helps people think about the impact of everyday actions,’ explains Ian Tennant, the Greeniversity Development Lead. ‘We live in the Information Age. Websites like YouTube allow people of all ages to share their knowledge and skills across space and time. However, opportunities to engage in meaningful, face-to-face relationships that build community are in decline. All sessions take place in small groups, and we find that this gives people the confidence and motivation to try something new that they perhaps wouldn’t have tried merely by looking online.’

Classes have proved extremely valuable to many participants. Peterborough resident Jo Minett was made redundant due to ill health and disability. She has two degrees, a BA in Geography and an MSc in Town Planning, but has not been engaged in formal learning for a long time and cannot afford expensive tuition fees. Since joining and attending different classes, Jo has widened her circle of friends, learnt new skills and increased in confidence. ‘I like the sort of classes that Greeniversity runs,’ explains Jo. ‘The fact that most of the classes are free is great, and I don’t have to sign up to a 10 week course.’

Shirley Flowers is a Greeniversity teacher who specialises in arts and crafts using recycled materials: ‘My favourite thing about teaching with Greeniversity is how, by teaching others, I also learn new things because people learn from each other.’ Shirley appreciates how Greeniversity benefits the wider community, explaining: ‘Learning in this way helps form new friendships and introduces environmental ideas in a fun way.’

The Green Backyard has been a venue for Greeniversity sessions since the project’s launch, and the partnership has been beneficial to both parties. Green Backyard co-founder Renny Antonelli explains: ‘The partnership between us works well because Greeniversity is a great platform for educating people about green living, and the Green Backyard is the perfect venue to teach these classes, with its combination of outdoor and indoor space. Together we are able to teach people the benefits and methods of living a greener lifestyle.’

For more information, and to discover what’s going on in your area, visit www.greeniversity.org.uk

Leave a Reply

Comments are closed.

Register an Account