We're launching a new space to work together to tackle issues and share ideas relating to ethical and sustainable investments and partnerships.
We’re excited to launch the new Ethical and Sustainable Investments Student Forum to create a space for students to share their thoughts, raise important concerns and to enable us to work together to listen, act and resonate more with all students.
It is clear that our student community cares deeply about how the University and Students’ Union manage their investments and partnerships, especially in relation to ethical and environmental practices, alongside how we tackle wider issues relating to sustainability. Recent years have seen the Students’ Union’s Annual Student Meetings pass several motions on themes relating to financial investments, as well as ethical and environmental concerns. Furthermore, last year saw students explore alternative ways of making their voice heard through submitting open letters and participating in protests and an encampment on campus. We want to listen and act more, so in line with our Students’ Union 2030 Strategy, we have created this forum as a space to create change together.
What have we done so far?
We have collaborated with the University’s Senior Leadership Team to create new spaces to have purposeful discussions and make progress on the important topics students have raised. For example, the Good Campus Experience Steering Group was created, bringing together key representatives from the University and Students’ Union. It was through this group that we presented the idea of creating the Ethical & Sustainable Investments Student Forum with the aim of gathering a diverse range of student feedback. This proposal was supported and so the forum will be set-up to listen to and collect student feedback that will be used to support consideration of key policies which will then be appropriately taken through the respective existing governance routes, such as the University’s Finance & Investment Committee and the Students’ Union’s Board of Trustees.
What will the Ethical & Sustainable Investment Forum discuss?
We’ll be talking about;
- Ethical investments (i.e. divestment from companies linked to unethical practices)
- Sustainability strategies (i.e. reducing Queen Mary’s carbon footprint and emissions)
- Student motions and ideas submitted via the Annual Student Meeting and Student Council that encompass ethical and environmental concerns.
And that’s just the start! This is not an exhaustive list, and students will have the freedom to shape the forum’s discussions as we move forwards.
Also, it’s important to note that in this forum we’ll also define “investments” as going beyond just the immediate financial matters. It’s also about the various investments made within our community. First, it acknowledges the financial commitment you make when choosing to study at Queen Mary, and where that money goes. Secondly, it is about the university’s investment in your education, particularly around topics like sustainability and ethics. And it’s ultimately about our collective investment in making the world a better place for all of us.
How often will the forum meet?
The forum will meet every eight weeks during the academic year, totaling 6 meetings annually. The pilot phase this year will run from February 2025 and June 2025, with 4 sessions during that time. We’ll typically meet in the evenings to accommodate student schedules and will offer hybrid meeting options if needed.
Can any student join the forum?
Absolutely! If you’re passionate about sustainability, ethical-decision making and want to make a real difference, this forum is for YOU! We’re looking for students who are;
- Open to learning and engaging in thoughtful debates
- Ready to collaborate with fellow students and staff
- Eager to drive change and represent the views of our student community
We want the forum to resonate with all students so aim for diverse representation from all faculties, with a mix of undergraduate and postgraduate students – to make sure everyone’s voice is heard.
You’ll also receive a one-off payment of £35 per meeting. You’ll also get the chance to network with others, boost your CV, gain valuable skills and directly influence decision making at Queen Mary.
This is your chance to be part of driving positive environmental and ethical change at the university and Students’ Union.
How to apply and join the forum?
Think you could make a difference? Here’s how to apply;
- Send us a short video (max. 3 minutes) about why you want to join the forum,
- Include a short supporting statement (up to 350 words) outlining any relevant experience, skills or ideas you would bring to the group.
Submit your video and statement to su-representation@qmul.ac.uk by Monday 24th March
No experience? No problem! We’re looking for enthusiasm, fresh ideas and a passion for making change. If that sounds like you, we want to hear from you!
Let’s work together to build a more sustainable and ethical future here at Queen Mary and in our wider global community.
