PhD student Blessing Mucherera shares his insights and explains why inclusivity and sustainability matter after presenting at the Student Sustainability Research Conferences in Leeds and London.
Why sustainability matters to me
Climate change does not affect all communities equally. Historically marginalised and vulnerable groups often bear the brunt of climate impacts like floods due to factors like geographic location, socioeconomic status, and limited access to resources. By integrating equality and equity considerations, adaptation strategies can be designed to protect those most at risk. On the other hand, different communities have different capacities to respond to climate impacts. Recognising and addressing these differences is essential to develop tailored strategies that enhance the resilience of all groups, particularly those who are most vulnerable. Based on this understanding, my interest is mainly in transforming urban areas into resilient, inclusive spaces that empower all community members, regardless of their background. The interest is in line with Sustainable Development Goals 10 (reduced inequalities), 11 (sustainable cities and communities) and 13 (climate action).
My contribution and conference highlights
My presentation, Inclusive Floodscapes: Empowering Minoritised Ethnicities for Urban Flood Resilience, discussed how placemaking for flood resilience in Hull excludes the growing minority ethnic communities. An example is the inaccessibility of the Hull Flood Risk Management Strategy, which is only available online in English. The inaccessibility limits the community's knowledge of the city's flood risk, resulting in inadequate flood risk preparedness and mitigation.
My presentation was underscored by a unique blend of participatory methods involving serious games (games with an objective more than mere enjoyment), walking, and face-to-face interviews. This approach highlighted the necessity for inclusive and accessible means to engage underrepresented groups. Throughout, I reiterated the significance of incorporating marginalised voices in sustainability discussions.
Relevant and impactful
The experience of presenting and participating in conferences is a cornerstone for my academic and professional development. It has enriched my understanding of sustainable practices and policies. The practical insights into implementing sustainability initiatives and the role of innovation and technology in driving positive environmental outcomes were thought-provoking. As I progress in my PhD studies, the insights will be instrumental in refining my research focus and methodologies, ensuring that my work remains relevant and impactful.
Integrating sustainability into my studies
Sustainability has been a guiding principle in my PhD in human geography. To me, sustainability is about creating systems that protect people and the environment while advancing social justice, equity and cultural sensitivity. The focus on flood risk management among minoritised ethnicities has highlighted the environmental aspects of sustainability and its complex interaction with social dimensions. My research, therefore, advocates a holistic approach that considers the cultural, social, and economic factors influencing urban flood resilience and injustices.
Insights from the Student Sustainability Research Conferences
The Student Sustainability Research Conference (SSRC24) aims to address all aspects of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Attending the SSRC24 at the University of Leeds to share my PhD findings with a broader audience and get feedback was pivotal in my academic journey. My submission secured a top-three spot, and I appeared on the opening panel. The top position also allowed me to present at the London Student Sustainability Conference (LSSC24) at Imperial College London, a sister conference to SSRC24. During the conferences, peers and experts provided constructive feedback, which helped me refine my thinking and approach to my work. I also connected with a wide range of individuals, opening doors to potential collaborations and future research opportunities. It was fascinating to see how sustainability principles are being integrated across different sectors and disciplines, highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to tackling environmental issues.
Future aspirations
I aspire to work closely with policymakers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to integrate the voices of marginalised communities into the decision-making processes related to sustainable and inclusive flood risk management. By doing so, I hope to influence policies and practices that promote social justice and fairness. The goal is to ensure that my research advances academic knowledge and informs practical solutions and policies for pressing issues in sustainability and managing floods.
Blessing Mucherera is in the third year of his PhD Human Geography (Water Cultures) within the Leverhulme DSC for Water Cultures in the Energy and Environment Institute.