25 students on the Business Management BA Honours course had the opportunity to take a four-day trip to Copenhagen funded by the Quintin Hogg Trust (QHT) which supports the educational advancement of students at the University of Westminster.
The QHT granted funds to take the students to one of Europe's most sustainable cities, Copenhagen, Denmark, for a field trip. The trip was led by Beverley Marsland, Course Leader of Business Management BA Honours, and Rachel Lander, Assistant Head of School at the School of Management and Marketing. The trip was also supported by Senior Lecturer Dr Gustavo Espinoza-Ramos.
The trip ran from 4 April to 7 April and included a cycling tour and visits to the Copenhill Centre, Tivoli Gardens and various other local sites. Students learned about the city’s sustainability and green spaces, and Copenhagen’s commitment to becoming the first carbon neutral capital in 2025 and most sustainable destination by 2030.
Student Pamindu Thehan Gallehewa said: “I'm beyond grateful to have had the extraordinary opportunity to embark on a sustainability tour of Copenhagen, Denmark, organized by the University of Westminster. Throughout the tour, we delved into Copenhagen's sustainable ethos...Navigating Copenhagen's green landscape, we embarked on an electric boat ride along the harbor, followed by an illuminating bicycle tour where we unearthed the city's ambitious climate goals, aiming to become the world's most sustainable destination by 2030. From awe-inspiring bike bridges to innovative solar installations, green roofs, and energy-efficient buildings, every stop showcased Copenhagen's dedication to sustainability. I am immensely grateful for the memories and insights gained from this unforgettable experience.”
Student Eleni Efstathiou said: “Not only did I deepen my understanding of sustainability strategies, but I also had the opportunity to connect with inspiring individuals who share a passion for creating positive change. One of the most rewarding aspects of this experience was the opportunity to forge new friendships and strengthen existing connections within our group. Collaborating with like-minded professionals from diverse backgrounds was both rewarding and eye-opening. I've come away from this trip with not only valuable knowledge but also a network of amazing individuals I now consider friends. I'm grateful for the insights gained and the personal growth achieved during this journey. It's clear that sustainability is not just a concept but a shared responsibility we all have in shaping a better future.”
Dr Gustavo Espinoza-Ramos said: “The trip to Copenhagen was a hands-on experience beyond the classroom and represented a great opportunity for students to have a practical understanding of an eco-friendly city. Students enjoyed and learned from the sustainable practices, architecture, historical places, and sustainable citizenship of Copenhagen. The trip offered our students the chance to make new friends and foster stronger connections and a sense of camaraderie with their peers and staff. Our second-year undergraduate students also gained practical advice and insights on academic performance from their third-year peers and developed a supportive learning community.”
This trip directly contributed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4: Quality Education, 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and 13: Climate Action. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Learn more about Business and Management courses at the University of Westminster.
