24 Nov 2025
By Tabitha Tinkler-Ferguson, Circular Glasgow Project Executive
Are you looking for a role in sustainability but you’re not sure where to begin?
Here’s a glimpse into my day as a Step Up to Net Zero Co-ordinator, a role that supports SMEs in Glasgow with their sustainability journey by finding reducing emissions, embedding circular practices and finder smarter waste solutions.
I’m one of over 90 individuals who’ve had the unique opportunity to receive dedicated training in circularity and net zero, while applying these skills directly within an organisation. As the programme spans across sectors, I’ve been able to delve into a completely new sector to further broaden my experience.
Morning: Training and learning
Training is central to developing the expertise to making changes in the business. Even with an environmental degree and as someone who has a keen personal interest in the circular economy, mostly through buying second-hand clothing and items, I didn’t have the key technical skills to calculate an organisation’s carbon footprint, or the confidence and knowledge to find and reach out to potential collaborators to repurpose their waste that was otherwise destined for landfill. Step Up to Net Zero equips you with these tools to make tangible, measurable changes in an empowering way.
Midday: Carbon footprint calculations
One of my first tasks is gathering data to calculate the business’s carbon footprint. This involves:
It’s a deep dive into the business with a clear purpose, finding the areas where we can make the biggest impact.
Afternoon: Collaboration
After some time at my desk, I step away from the screen to engage with my colleagues. Bringing a fresh perspective to a new industry means I can share insights and spark ideas for implementing practical changes, like switching to reusable packaging for products and discussing innovative ways to reduce the business’s environmental impact, such as looking into solar panels and other energy efficiency measures for the building. In doing so, we can lower the business’s carbon footprint in a way that often saves costs too!
Later, I join other Step Up to Net Zero Co-ordinators for a co-working session. It’s a fantastic way to share our challenges and exchange ideas across sectors, finding ways to amplify out collective influence across Glasgow.
Why it matters
I usually leave work tired but satisfied, knowing I’m part of a programme that can make a real difference to SMEs and the city’s sustainability goals. The role is challenging, but in the best way! It’s helping me grow professionally and personally, building my confidence and equipping me with the skills for a rewarding career.
If you’re passionate about sustainability and want hands-on experience creating real change, apply for Step Up to Net Zero today: https://www.circularglasgow.com/step-up-to-net-zero/
