Industry guest speakers bringing sustainability to the fore
30 October 2024
Industry insights are a huge part of our approach to enriching learning for our students, and Cornwall Business School recently hosted a number of local organisations to hear about how they're tackling the issues surrounding sustainability.
Falmouth University students studying business, management and tourism courses had the privilege to learn about differing operational approaches to sustainability from several Cornish businesses.
The event - organised by lecturer Sam Perkin - brought together speakers including Ian Greaves - CEO St. Eval, Amanda Pennington - former Wildanet sustainability practitioner, Duncan Anderson Margetts - Southwest representative of the Country Land and Business Association, Mark Lawther - Founder of the Kernow Travel Company, Chloe Lingard - alumni and founder of TSAP Travel, and Emily Perkin - JD Wetherspoon.
At the seminar - supported by Falmouth's venture studio, Launchpad Futures - both postgraduate and undergraduate students had the chance to break into smaller groups and ask questions to the speakers which they could learn from.
The discussions revolved around the nuances of business sustainability, the importance of taking care of the people, and financial stability.
Ian shared his experience of running a B Corp and the importance of sustainability and how it stretches across Europe - not just in the UK, Amanda talked about how she helped 40 Cornish businesses go through B Corp literacy and help some of them achieve B Corp status. Mark talked about the importance of understanding the market, and Duncan shared his insights on how farmers' interests are kept front and centre in his organisation to ensure a sustainable future. Emily shared her experience of how important staff wellbeing is in her organisation.
Cornwall really does punch above its weight in so many ways! - Ian Greaves, CEO St. Eval
Ian shared his thoughts about the experience; "It was really interesting discussing how sustainability can be woven into every aspect of business. I had some great discussions with some really engaged Falmouth students; it seems to be a fantastic place to learn - Cornwall really does punch above its weight in so many ways! It is good to see education at such a level thriving in Cornwall."
Business & Digital Marketing BSc student Sophia Randall commented: "It was a really engaging and interesting seminar, with plenty of valuable insight and great discussion. Thank you to everyone involved!"
The Cornwall Business School team wishes to thank all attendees and speakers at this event, and welcome future guest speakers to create and support opportunities for creating knowledge exchange for Cornwall.