Cumbria Action for Sustainability, Cumbria’s climate change charity, is one of only ten organisations in the country to have received the prestigious award of Platinum Status. Accredited by the Carbon Literacy Project, this is the highest award level and recognises organisations that demonstrate outstanding delivery of the Carbon Literacy course and educate and inspire businesses, organisations, communities, and individuals to act on climate change.  

As part of their drive to support Cumbria to reach its ambition of becoming carbon net zero by 2037, Cumbria Action for Sustainability has trained over a thousand people, and written, accredited and delivered courses for multiple sectors. They also run Train-the-Trainer programmes for organisations outside of Cumbria.  

The Carbon Literacy Project promotes awareness and understanding of climate change, and the action that can be taken to reduce carbon emissions. The day long course covers the latest science behind climate change, the impacts of climate change and the solutions to mitigate the effects of climate change. The course is designed to educate people on the importance of carbon reduction and to provide them with the tools and knowledge they need to reduce their own carbon footprints, and to communicate with others about the urgency of the climate crisis. It can be tailored by Cumbria Action for Sustainability to meet the needs of specific organisations and can be delivered online or in person. 

Chris Nattress, Principal of Lakes College West Cumbria said “The training CAfS developed and delivered was excellent and exactly what we needed. Staff found the session informative, thought-provoking and ideal in providing an evidence-based, well-informed overview of the challenges we all face in reducing carbon emissions. CAfS are a pleasure to work with, very well informed and hit just the right tone in the session.’  

Andrew Seekings, Chief Executive of Cumberland Council said “I have attended climate change training before, when I felt that I have been talked at…or blamed…, this isn’t the case with CAfS, the approach is one that is reflective, balanced and pragmatic. It is based on an understanding that not all of us can take every action, inhibited by our ability to change for various reasons, but instead, raises your consciousness to make you want to do something, whatever is right for you.”  

Sam Plum, Chief Executive of Westmorland and Furness Council, said; “I would highly recommend the CAfS Carbon Literacy Training.  The course is accessible, compelling, and incredibly well delivered, with plenty of opportunities for participants to really get involved.  It absolutely resonates with our Council Plan priorities and brings a sometimes unattainable or challenging subject to life with real examples and practical steps.” 

Hazel Graham, CAfS Climate and Carbon Literacy Training Manager said; “We are delighted to be one of the few organisations in the country to achieve platinum status. This is a real recognition of the quality of the work of our team of eight specialist climate trainers.  

At CAfS, we’ve been supporting individuals and organisations to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions for 25 years and we have built an incredibly strong team of specialist staff. It is brilliant to see that hard work and expertise recognised in this award. 

We have trained over 1200 people so far, but we aim to train 3000 people in the next 2 years. If you want to be one of them, please get in touch!” 

CAfS Carbon Literacy course is available to businesses, organisations and individuals looking for a deeper understanding of climate change and methods of reducing carbon in their businesses and lives. The course is also offered free of charge to those on low incomes, using a pay-as-you-can-afford model, ensuring everyone has access to the knowledge they need to make a positive impact on the environment. The course encourages connection with a network of people working towards a greener future.  

If you are looking to take steps to reduce your carbon footprint and become more sustainable in your life, community, business or organisation, check out the links.