Glasgow Kelvin College
Cycling for All – Breaking Barriers
Winner, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Sustainability
Finalist, International
About
Glasgow Kelvin College strives to reduce barriers and provide an inclusive approach to education, including empowering individuals with protected characteristics to become involved in our overarching sustainability work. The ‘Cycling for All’ initiative has led to greater access to and participation in sustainable travel. While cycling has long been considered one of the most sustainable modes of transportation, cycling programmes and infrastructure have not always focused on inclusivity. At Kelvin College, however, ‘Cycling for All’ puts often-overlooked groups at the centre of our initiatives. This project includes a Cycle Confidence Course for students who require learning support due to disability, led cycle rides for English Speaker of Other Languages (ESOL) students who can subsequently get a free bike, and an expanded and diversified campus fleet of bikes and cycling infrastructure. Our goal is for a ‘just transition’ where all students, regardless of background or ability, have equitable access to sustainable opportunities
Top 3 learnings
- When barriers are removed, there is more interest and participation in sustainable initiatives.
- We learned that many of our learners have multiple protected characterstics and this project can address that intersectionality.
- Cycling and sustainable travel are options for all, regardless of background or ability.
What is means to win
Glasgow Kelvin College would be thrilled to receive Green Gown Award recognition for our students’ and staff’s trailblazing work to embed Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Sustainability. The drive for sustainability and a ‘just transition’ is part of the ethos of our institution and a potential model of best practice in inclusive sustainability initiatives.
Sustainable Development Goals
| 2026 | |
| Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Sustainability | |
| Winner, UK and Ireland Finalist, International |
