Carbon Literacy Workshop
(low-carbon buildings & retrofit)
Our one-day Carbon Literacy workshop provides a practical and engaging introduction to the causes and impacts of climate change, while focusing on the role of buildings and construction in reducing carbon emissions. The session combines relatable, everyday examples with sector-specific insights, helping participants connect global issues to their own lives and work.
venue: We deliver these workshops in our city centre Manchester event space (see location); but for group bookings, we can either (1) host these; (2) deliver the workshops at your own premises*; or (3) present online using Zoom.
price: Individuals: £150/person; Group bookings: £95/person (minimum 10 people per workshop)
Morning – Part 1: Understanding the Challenge
Why change is essential: exploring the evidence for climate change and its impacts.
How we got here: an introduction to greenhouse gases and carbon emissions.
What drives emissions: from the food we eat and the way we travel to the wider materials economy.
Afternoon – Part 2: Buildings, Retrofit and Opportunities
Why homes matter: improving the standard of our buildings through the “4 Cs” of retrofit – Comfort, Carbon, Coughs, and Cost.
How we make it happen: looking at the systems that make buildings work – heating, hot water, ventilation, and lighting – and how to make them more efficient.
What we build with: comparing key construction and retrofit materials and understanding the differences between options.
Looking forward: the opportunities that a low-carbon future creates, including emerging skills and jobs in the construction sector.
By the end of the day, participants will have the knowledge and confidence to recognise where carbon emissions come from, understand practical ways to reduce them, and identify opportunities for positive action in both daily life and professional practice.
who are these workshops for…?
Our Carbon Literacy workshops are designed for:
Design professionals – architects, engineers and surveyors who want to align projects with net-zero goals and current guidance.
Local authorities, housing associations and community groups – to up-skill staff and stakeholders so decisions and policies are grounded in carbon-aware practice.
Contractors and installers – to understand the principles behind low-carbon construction and retrofit, not just the technical “what” but the science of why and how.
Homeowners, residents and building users – to make informed choices about improving comfort, reducing bills, and cutting emissions.
Students and educators – building knowledge that can be applied in study, teaching, and future careers.
why take part…?
Gain a nationally-recognised Carbon Literacy certificate.
Build confidence in sustainable decision-making.
Understand the carbon impacts of buildings and retrofits in real-world terms.
Contribute to organisational climate targets and personal sustainability goals.
Join a growing community of Carbon Literate citizens driving change across the UK and beyond.
For more about the Carbon Literacy movement, visit www.carbonliteracy.com.
* We may need to add travel expenses & accommodation depending on where you are located.