A month long global Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) awareness raising campaign is well underway and Forth Valley College are calling for staff, students mand College departments to share their SDG journeys in the run up to Flag Day on September 25.
Many of FVC’s classes, groups and departments already support one or more of the 17 SDGs – https://sdgs.un.org/goals - and the College is looking to recognise how others can get involved in the run up to Thursday 25 September.
Here is another excellent example of how SDG awareness is operating at FVC.
Forth Valley College is actively encouraging students to adopt more sustainable and health-conscious travel habits through a range of initiatives focused on walking, cycling, and wheeling. These programmes not only reduce reliance on single-use car journeys but also foster a culture of wellbeing, inclusion, and environmental responsibility across the student community.
One of the most successful initiatives has been the Paths for All Step Count Challenge, which runs twice annually in spring and autumn. Participation has grown steadily, with the Autumn 2024 challenge seeing a 41% increase in student involvement compared to the previous year. Students formed teams, tracked their steps, and competed for prizes, all while learning how small changes—like walking during lunch breaks or choosing active travel over driving—can contribute to cleaner air and healthier lifestyles. These efforts directly support SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, particularly targets 3.6 and 3.9, which aim to reduce traffic-related injuries and improve air quality.
To make the challenge more accessible, entry fees were subsidised, and incentives such as vouchers and trophies were offered. Pop-up hubs and interactive stalls during Welcome Week helped break down barriers to participation, making active travel more visible and engaging for students. The challenge also promoted SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, by encouraging low-impact commuting and community engagement.
Cycling initiatives have also played a key role in promoting sustainability. Through partnerships with organisations like Recyke-a-bike and Forth Environment Link, students—especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds—have gained access to refurbished bikes and e-bike loans, reducing transport poverty and supporting SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities. Workshops such as #andshecycles have specifically addressed barriers faced by young women, empowering them to cycle confidently and safely, in alignment with SDG 5: Gender Equality.
Students have also benefited from practical support, including free bike repairs through Dr. Bike sessions, adaptive bike trials for supported learning classes, and improved cycling infrastructure such as bike lockers and campus cycle maps. These efforts promote SDG 13: Climate Action by reducing carbon emissions and encouraging low-impact travel.
Digital engagement has further enhanced student participation. An Active Travel Moodle page and collaboration with the Marketing and Learning & Quality teams have helped raise awareness of local walking and cycling opportunities. Open day outreach and plans to expand bike fleets for class outings continue to build momentum, making sustainability a visible and accessible part of student life.
This case study highlights how Forth Valley College is actively contributing to the SDGs and fostering a culture of sustainability among its students—making it a proud participant in SDG Flag Day, where initiatives like these are recognised and celebrated across the College community.
