Sustainability Book Club launches at Surrey

The University’s Sustainability Team have joined forces with Surrey’s Library to provide staff and students with a Sustainability Book Club.

The club, instigated by Jonathan Brinsmead (IT Project Manager), will give staff and students a safe, inclusive space to discuss books and other media exploring all aspects of sustainability – from climate action to wellbeing.  

Jonathan states “I feel this Book Club gives a great chance to reflect on what writers have to say about sustainability, discuss with others and see growth in understanding.  It’s also a chance to consider whether we want to set our own goals to care for the planet and make a community.”

For the club’s inaugural session on Tuesday 10 March 2026, the group will be discussing the pivotal environmental science book Silent Spring by Rachel Carson. 

Published in 1962, Silent Spring marked a turning point in environmental awareness and activism. The book exposed the devastating effects of indiscriminate pesticide use on ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. Carson’s meticulous research and compelling narrative revealed how chemical pollutants were disrupting the delicate balance of nature, leading to a “silent spring” devoid of birdsong and biodiversity.

All staff and students are welcome! If you would like to attend this session, and join the Book Club, please fill in this form. 

Any questions, please contact the Sustainability Team. 

Find out more about how you can get involved with sustainability at Surrey. 

The launch of a Sustainability Book Club is just one way the University is embedding the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This Club will provide staff and students with a safe space to learn more about sustainability (Sustainable Development Goal 4 – quality education). The sessions will also aim to encourage staff and students to share their own sustainability ideas and take climate action whilst at the University (Sustainable Development Goal 13 – climate action).