In addition to her teaching and research, Julie co-founded the University of Birmingham Eco Café. The café offers students a relaxed forum to share experiences of eco-anxiety, learn about the University’s environmental initiatives, and discuss actionable solutions to climate and sustainability issues. The judges recognised this as a standout project, “impressed by [Julie’s] innovative approach to turning awareness into action and providing a much-needed space for open dialogue and support in today’s climate landscape.”
On receiving the recognition, Julie said “I share this award with Dr Laura Day Ashley and Greta Doig, inspiring colleagues with whom I set up the Eco-Café. In an era of unrelentingly bad news about our planet, it’s vital that we listen to the views of our students and provide space for discussion and compassion. It’s also imperative that we design opportunities in our curriculum to think creatively about how best to tackle the challenges of climate change, and that we spend some of our study time together immersed in the natural environment we want to protect.”
To learn more about Green Impact and other sustainability initiatives at the University of Birmingham, visit our Get Involved page.
