Duo inspire students to think green

Two Sunderland-based social enterprises are joining forces to inspire young people to think sustainably about the future of business.

Reinvented with Friends CIC and Climate Action North, both based at the North East BIC, have launched a programme of eco education sessions in Wearside schools. 

Hosted by Culture House Sunderland and funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the sessions took place at Castle View Enterprise Academy (CVEA) and Kepier School, focusing on issues such as waste, fast fashion and responsible consumption.

Reinvented with Friends CIC, which began as a startup with support from the BIC and was founded by former teacher Ali Williams, encourages sustainability through furniture reupholstery and community workshops. 

Its mission is to reduce waste by teaching people how to repurpose items instead of sending them to landfill. 

Ali said: “I’ve built a business around sustainable thinking, so it was great to work with Sharon and her team to equip young people with the knowledge they need to make environmentally conscious decisions as they enter adulthood. 

“If students are thinking of setting up their own businesses, now is the time to think about the positive impact they can have on the environment.

“Through these sessions we hopefully helped shape the next generation of eco-entrepreneurs by demonstrating how business can be a force for good.” 

Sharon Lashley, chief executive of Climate Action North, which supports businesses and communities in lowering carbon footprints through practical initiatives including rewilding, added: “By working with Ali, we were able to spread the message about the urgent need to rethink how we produce, consume and dispose of everyday items like clothing, plastics and food.  

“Young people today are surrounded by fast fashion, so it’s crucial that we help them understand how their choices impact the environment. 

“If they start thinking about these issues now, they can play a vital role in building a more sustainable future.” 

Emma McDermott, assistant vice principal from CVEA, added: “It was amazing to see our Year 9 students embrace the challenge of sustainable innovation with such enthusiasm and creativity. 

“‘The Waste Not Schools’ workshop allowed students to explore real-world environmental issues, develop innovative solutions and gain an insight into the exciting world of eco-entrepreneurship.

“It was a fantastic opportunity for our students to engage with local entrepreneurs, highlighting the many exciting opportunities in the green economy and helping them learn about business ownership and self-employment as future career options.”

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