1284 Communications Account Executive Lauren Cropper has completed the Greener Future Leicestershire Climate Action and Leadership Programme.

It is a six-week initiative delivered by the University of Leicester and funded through Innovate UK as part of its Net Zero Living Programme.

This programme builds on 1284’s university links, with Managing Director George Oliver serving as Entrepreneur-in-Residence at the University of Leicester, mentoring students and supporting innovation initiatives.

Through the course, Lauren earned Carbon Literacy Accreditation, recognising her ability to understand climate change, measure impact, and lead sustainability efforts across 1284 and its client work.

The accreditation, awarded by the Carbon Literacy Project, recognises proven climate knowledge and leadership, enabling participants to design low‑carbon strategies, meet sustainability standards, and deliver measurable environmental progress.

Lauren said: “The Climate Leadership Programme has given me a clearer picture of how businesses can make real progress on sustainability. 

“It’s helped me see how 1284 can better support our clients, many already driving impressive change, by communicating their impact with purpose and authenticity.”

Lauren is already applying her learning by leading 1284’s first Sustainability Action Plan, tailored to align with UK Government sustainability frameworks and Net Zero by 2050 goals.

The plan focuses on reducing the 1284’s digital footprint and making cloud operations greener.

As part of 1284’s sustainability pledge, she is developing a cloud-based data policy that prioritises efficiency and environmental responsibility, aligning the consultancies own operations with the standards it advocates for its clients.

Communicating sustainability in business 

The programme is designed to help local organisations embed sustainability into business growth while learning how to communicate impact effectively. 

It combines expert-led workshops, one-to-one consultancy, and Carbon Literacy training.

Held online and at the Brookfield Campus, Leicester School of Business, the course was led by Alice Jackson and Dr Sandra Lee, with weekly sessions featuring specialists in sustainability leadership, operations, funding, and communications.

The training enhances 1284’s ability to help clients tell their sustainability stories with authenticity and precision, translating sustainability strategies into credible, engaging messages that align with client values and goals.