During this session on building sustainable businesses, we will hear from Karen Laing, Director of Sustainability Transformation at the University of St Andrews. Karen will share the University’s Environmental Sustainability Strategy and the transformative actions driving whole-institution change. She’ll discuss their journey toward achieving Net Zero by 2035, including key milestones, challenges faced and the next steps in delivering a truly sustainable future.

This session will offer a free lunch and practical insights and inspiration for organisations committed to embedding sustainability at the heart of their operations.

Agenda:

12.00 – Networking Lunch

12.30 – Karen Laing presentation & Q&A

13.30 – Group Discussion

14.00 – Close

Karen leads the University’s sustainability transformation programme, driving delivery of its Environmental Sustainability Strategy and the commitment to achieve Net Zero by 2035. Her role focuses on integrating sustainability across operations, research, and teaching, with oversight of major initiatives that cover the reduction of all scope emissions, biodiversity, and climate adaptation. Karen works closely with governance bodies, academic schools, and external partners to embed systemic change and ensure progress is transparent and accountable.