Hello, my name's Matilda and I'm running to be your Sustainability Network Lead because protecting the environment has always been personal to me. I stood for this role in the last election too. I got a strong number of votes but didn't quite get the role, so I'm running again more determined and better prepared.

I live in the New Forest National Park, and from a young age I saw how human behaviour directly affects the natural spaces we depend on. That led me to litter-picking and local clean-up efforts long before coming to university.

As a vegetarian and eco-conscious person, I believe real change comes from small everyday choices. I want to represent students by turning concern about the environment into visible, meaningful impact on campus.

If elected, I will focus on action, collaboration, and accountability.

I will work with catering and university services to expand affordable, appealing plant-based food as there’s currently only 1 option, alongside clearer sustainability information so students can make informed choices. I will push for reduced waste at university, with proper recycling and composting facilities that are clearly labelled and accessible.

I want to build a stronger sustainability community by organising regular litter-picking events and partnering with existing societies and local environmental groups. I'll also run events to help students build sustainable habits that last beyond university.

I'll set up an open student sustainability forum so ideas and feedback directly shape projects and priorities, and I'll publish a termly progress update, what's been delivered, what hasn't, so students can hold me to account, not just hear promises.

Sustainability is about protecting our future and the places we live, study, and relax in. I'm ready to lead with experience, commitment, and care for the world we live in.

Let's turn these words into action.