Sustainable energy systems and a circular economy were centre stage when SETU marked Green Day with a series of engaging activities aimed at promoting sustainability and environmental awareness among staff and students.
This was followed by an on-campus clothes swap led by SETU students offering a chance to learn how to make small changes to habits in order to live more sustainably.
Circular economy
Students from SETU’s BSc in Fashion Buying and Retail Management organised and ran the clothes swap event where students were invited to bring a quality item of clothing from their wardrobe and exchange it for something new.
The event was supported by Change Clothes and Waterford City and County Council and included a repair station where you could bring a clothes item and get help making simple repairs.
Maria Verrecchia, Head of Circular Fashion at Change Clothes said, “It was so impressive to see the first-years take their own initiative with the swap event, demonstrating excellent planning and execution. It was a pleasure to offer support and advice, and we look forward to seeing what they create next year at the next clothes swap event.”
Ann Ryan, Course Leader for BSc in Fashion Buying and Retail Management said the clothes swap was a “fantastic example of enthusiastically blending retail management and sustainability in an education setting.”
Sustainability initiatives
Green Day featured contributions from the South East Energy Agency, Kellihers Electrical, and Optimising Power at Work Campaign, who shared insights on renewable technologies and practical tips for saving energy at home and in the workplace.
Complementing this, the Repair Café demonstrated how to extend the life of electrical goods, reducing waste and encouraging a circular economy.
The Waterford Climate Action Team promoted active travel options, while Waterford Sustainable Living hosted hands-on workshops teaching participants how to make DIY eco-friendly cleaning products and reduce reliance on chemical cleaners.
“Green Day is about empowering our community to take practical steps toward a more sustainable future,” said Elaine Greenan, Climate Action Lead at SETU. “From energy-saving tips to repair skills and eco-friendly living, these initiatives show that small changes can make a big difference.”
A second Green Day and other Sustainable Development Office events are planned for semester 2.