Environmental sustainability is a hot topic and the expectations on charities to address these issues are growing. That’s why we’ve teamed up with Bright Green Business to support 10 grant holders a year for three years to increase their environmental awareness, change behaviours and improve their environmental sustainability.

The initiative provides paid work experience to a student with an expertise in the field. They are then supported by an experienced environmental advisor to offer a grant holder project focused, low cost practical support for approximately 50 days.

This week as the end of the first year of the contract closes we hear how the enthusiasm and innovative ideas students bring can kick start the process.

Galin Zhivkov was placed with the Point and Sandwick Trust on the Isle of Lewis to help them begin the process of gaining what is known as an ISO 14001, taking them through the first and second stages of this Environmental Management System. As part of the process he helped the community set clear targets on environmental impacts. He also aided the development to consider not only the impact towards the physical health and tangible property of the population, but also towards the imperceptible, priceless heritage of their unique culture.

Donald John MacSween from Point and Sandwick Trust said: “We were very pleased indeed with the work Galin undertook for us, and my Board have approved his report and will follow the action plan for implementation. Galin was not set an easy task, in a very rural and unfamiliar environment. He undertook his work enthusiastically, with great diligence and dedication and completed the job on time and very much to our satisfaction.”

For more background, read our previous blog inviting grantholders to note their interest for year one.