This team-based workshop presents students with a real-world challenge and delivers an authentic learning and skills experience.

Working for a consultancy specialising in Corporate Sustainability solutions, the students’ task is to develop and pitch an ESG Strategy for a client.

They take on the roles of ESG Analyst, Client Manager, Solutions Lead and Communications Strategist.

Applying their Business and Management knowledge under the pressure of competition, this is a unique opportunity for them to develop their Sustainability Competencies and Green Skills.

Format & IT requirements

The workshop lasts between 1½ and 2 hours. The length can be adapted to fit the time available.

The culmination of the challenge sees the top three teams pitching their ESG Strategies to a panel of employer representatives and/or lecturers.

Each student requires a PC/laptop. There is no limit to the number of participants.

There are four students in a team, each with their own role. The workshop could be adapted to have two people in each team (with students doubling up on the roles).

Employer opportunities

In 2024’s Green Skills & Green Jobs Youth Consultation report (prepared for the UN Environment Programme), university students issued this call to action:

“Include sustainability and green skills within mandatory educational programmes and establish green educational indicators.”

Sustainability Strategy Challenge will help university Business Schools and Careers Services respond to this request, preparing futures literate and sustainability focussed graduates who can provide the responsible leadership of the future.

Linkedin’s recent Global Climate Talent Stocktake leads with the call to double Green Talent by 2050 to meet global demand.

Many companies now prioritise integrating Sustainability and ESG Strategies into their operations and are looking to recruit graduates with a developed set of Green Skills.

The workshop will provide an excellent opportunity for Business and Management Schools to engage with local employers from all sectors whilst supporting their students’ Sustainability skills development.