Integrating Education for Sustainable Development in UCC: toolkits, digital badges and people

This case study from University College Cork (UCC) outlines Integrating Education for Sustainable Development in UCC: toolkits, digital badges and people (2019–2024). Led collaboratively by CIRTL, the Office of Sustainability and Climate Action, and Green Campus, the initiative comprises four interconnected strands: development of an open-source SDG Toolkit for Teaching and Learning; a national ESD consultation; a 24-hour micro-credential in Learning and Teaching with the SDGs; and the recruitment of a dedicated Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Officer. The initiative has engaged over 21,000 SDG Toolkit users globally, delivered 17 CPD workshops to approximately 500 staff, supported whole-institution SDG programme mapping (60% of programmes mapped by February 2024), and fostered national and international collaborations. The work aligns with UCC strategic priorities, Ireland’s ESD to 2030 strategy, and UNESCO sustainability competence frameworks.