By Gavin Donoghue.

Having worked in the renewable energy sector myself for a number of years, I am proud that Scotland’s college sector continues to lead the way in sustainability, with several colleges shortlisted for the prestigious 2025 Green Gown Awards. 

These awards, delivered by EAUC in partnership with UKRI, celebrate exceptional sustainability initiatives across the UK and Ireland’s post-16 education sector. This year’s ceremony will take place on Thursday 6 November at the Library of Birmingham, recognising innovation, impact, and leadership in environmental responsibility.

Glasgow Clyde College – 2030 Climate Action

Glasgow Clyde College has been shortlisted in the 2030 Climate Action category for its Everyday Action: Think Green campaign. This initiative encourages staff and students to adopt sustainable habits in their daily lives, from reducing energy use to promoting active travel. It’s a grassroots movement that’s making a measurable difference across their campuses.

By encouraging simple, consistent actions, Glasgow Clyde College is showing how institutions can lead by example in the journey toward net zero – making sustainability achievable, relatable, and impactful for all.

Glasgow Kelvin College – Empowering Change Through Fashion and Community

Glasgow Kelvin College has earned two nominations at this year’s Green Gown Awards, showcasing its innovative approach to sustainability through education and community engagement.

• Fighting Fast Fashion: Through creative initiatives like the Bridal Project, Project Runway, and the Swap Shop, students are encouraged to challenge the norms of fast fashion. These hands-on projects promote reuse, upcycling, and sustainable design, while also building confidence and practical skills. The Swap Shop, in particular, has become a hub for circular fashion, allowing students and staff to exchange clothing and reduce waste.
• Community Roots: The college’s second nomination celebrates its work in community-based sustainability, where students collaborate with local organisations to deliver impactful projects. From climate literacy workshops to eco-friendly design challenges, these efforts empower learners to become sustainability champions both on campus and in their communities.

Together, these projects reflect Glasgow Kelvin College’s commitment to embedding sustainability into learning and action – proving that education can be a powerful driver of environmental and social change.

Fife College – Driving Sustainability Through Curriculum and Community

Fife College has also been recognised with two Green Gown Award nominations, reflecting its deep commitment to embedding sustainability across both education and community engagement.

• Sustainability in the Curriculum: Fife College is leading the way in integrating environmental awareness into its teaching practices. By embedding sustainability principles across a wide range of subjects, the college ensures that students graduate not only with academic knowledge but also with the values and skills needed to contribute to a greener future. This approach empowers learners to think critically about climate challenges and become agents of change in their chosen fields.
• Community Carbon Reduction: The second nomination celebrates the college’s impactful work with local communities to reduce carbon emissions. Through collaborative projects, workshops, and outreach initiatives, Fife College is helping residents and organisations adopt more sustainable practices. These efforts demonstrate how colleges can extend their influence beyond the classroom and become key players in regional climate action.

Together, these projects showcase Fife College’s holistic approach to sustainability – one that educates, inspires, and activates change at every level.

Looking Ahead

The Green Gown Awards are more than just accolades – they’re a platform for sharing best practice and inspiring others to take action. 

With climate change and sustainability at the forefront of global challenges, Scotland’s colleges are proving that education is a powerful tool for transformation. Their work not only benefits their campuses but also sets an example for communities across Scotland and beyond.  

Colleges are equipping learners with the tools to build a greener, fairer future while supporting local resilience and innovation. But to continue this vital work, sustainable funding is essential. Long-term investment will empower colleges to scale their impact, nurture future leaders, and embed sustainability into every aspect of learning and community life.

I wish Fife College, Glasgow Kelvin College, and Glasgow Clyde College every success at the event.