Western Sydney reimagined as net-zero city in student challenge

Students take part in The City Challenge

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Western Sydney University students have tackled the region’s most critical issue: how to move towards net-zero emissions by 2050 during The City Challenge – a 21C Curiosity Pod set over two days at the University’s Parramatta South campus.

Offered as part of the 21C Project, in partnership with Common Purpose and The Academy, the interactive event challenged students to respond to the challenge laid out by Greater Sydney Commission: ‘How should Western Sydney embrace renewable and resilient energy to help achieve net zero emissions by 2050?’.

Working with peers from the University of East London, the students came together from a variety of disciplines to respond to a formal brief, visit industry partners and take part in an expert-led masterclass. The best solutions were pitched to an esteemed panel, including Western City District Commissioner and Western Sydney University Deputy Chancellor, Elizabeth Dibbs, as well as industry and University leaders.

Western Sydney University Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic (Acting), Professor Simon Barrie, said the event mobilised and encouraged students to think progressively about combining sustainability and resilience in business across the region.

“In developing innovative solutions, the participants had the opportunity to contribute and apply analytical and leadership skills in a pressurised environment to a challenge that’s very relevant to their lives. Curiosity Pods, like this one, are a key element of the University’s 21C Curriculum transformation tailored to prepare our students for a rapidly evolving workforce and as Western Sydney’s next generation of leaders,” said Professor Barrie.

The winning solution will be further explored by Western Sydney University’s Technology Business Incubator Launch Pad and the Greater Sydney Commission.

The City Challenge is just one of the many Western Sydney University 21C Curiosity Pods available for our contemporary student cohort. Curiosity Pods are an exciting new curriculum element offering students a micro-credential and promoting cross-disciplinary collaboration. For this City Challenge our Western Sydney Students were also joined by students from the University of East London in this flexible, agile and rewarding learning experience.

For more information, please visit the Western Sydney University website (opens in a new window).

ENDS

10 March 2020

Ali Sardyga, Media Officer