Transforming the
Construction Industry

For a sustainable future in renewable energy

Self-paced sustainability courses designed for Construction leaders and employees, from the University of Cambridge. 

Sustainable construction unlocked

The built environment sector is undergoing a seismic shift – facing urgent challenges as it grapples with its role in driving carbon emissions and depleting natural resources. Business-as-usual practices are becoming increasingly untenable due to changing consumer demands, regulations and societal expectations.

With ambitious targets for energy and carbon reduction, there’s a rising demand for professionals who can do things differently – whether through planning, designing, building or – critically – adapting, retrofitting and conserving built assets

Why sustainability matters in the construction sector

Building profitability

Embracing renewable practices not only protects the planet, it also presents significant commercial advantages in the fast-evolving construction market. Optimising resources and conserving energy can lead to considerable cost savings over a building’s lifespan. Creating flexible, sustainable real estate assets ensures long-term relevance too – driving higher occupancy rates and increasing profitability for businesses.

Mitigating challenges

The regulatory landscape for the built environment is rapidly evolving towards sustainability. By taking action now, construction companies can mitigate compliance challenges and future-proof their operations against emerging regulations. Proactive integration of sustainable practices now will ensure that organisations remain competitive while complying with fast-changing legal and environmental standards.

Leading the way

Sustainable transformation requires radical collaboration within organisations and across the sector. By leading the way in sustainable practices and sharing expertise, businesses can accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy. Engaging in collaborative efforts not only drives sustainability but also influences global sustainability efforts.

Did you know?

$194-$66 billion

The climate adaptation finance gap is widening and now stands at $194–366 billion
(United Nations Environment Programme 2023).

$4-5 trillion

In order to avert climate catastrophe, clean energy investments of ~USD4-5 trillion are required annually between now and 2030
(World Economic Forum 2023b).

$110 billion

In the first half of 2023 alone, natural catastrophe losses reached USD110 billion
(Munich Re 2023)

Business transformation for the right reasons

The University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL) is your partner to navigate the transition to a renewable future, for success now and long into the future. As an impact-led institute, CISL has pioneered sustainable practices since 1988. Renowned for our integrity and innovation, we empower leaders to drive essential transitions towards a sustainable future.

Why choose CISL?

  • Cutting-edge expertise: Our courses are rooted in the latest research from world-class Cambridge academics and expert industry practitioners.
  • Learning pathways that suit you. From 8-hour, asynchronous e-learning modules, to full academic Masters programmes and a range of executive education courses, CISL offers learning opportunities across your organisation.
  • Impact-driven approach: Courses designed with a results-driven approach, facilitating practical, actionable outcomes.
  • Recognised learning: Support your team’s professional development with a digital badge or certificate from CISL, to demonstrate commitment to sustainable construction.

Choosing the right programme
for you and your team

Through our flexible online modules, you can harness CISL’s cross-sector expertise, proven frameworks, and industry foresight. We enable your teams to share a fundamental understanding of key global issues, and in turn help your organisation to innovate.


Successful completion of these e-learning modules provides a digital badge for each learner. Through the admin portal, organisations can assess their team’s progress at any time. Once all learners have completed their modules, admins will also receive aggregated
feedback on the course experience, supporting your future learning strategy.

“We really are seeing a transition from the old energy system to a new, clean energy system, although we have a mountain to climb. I am an energy transition optimist though and am excited about creating a cleaner and fairer energy system together. I’m also excited to be sharing my knowledge through this course, to give you tools to help you contribute to this global transition.”

Dr Jan Rosenow

Course Lead and Subject Matter Expert, Renewable Energy Foundations for Business

Course details

Course Prices From | £139 +VAT (Discounts available for bulk purchases)

Self-paced Learning | 6-8 hours per course

12-Month Access | Complete at your own pace within 1 year.

Accreditation | Earn a badge of accreditation upon completion.

If your organisation is looking to deliver sustainability learning across its workforce, let’s talk.

Renewable Energy Foundations

The need for climate action is urgent and a global transition to renewable energy is essential to mitigate the destructive impact of greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels.

This course supports your business to move away from fossil fuel energy sources to renewable energy alternatives. Learners gain foundational knowledge rooted in systems thinking, which draws on facts, evidence and case studies from around the world. Reflect on how individuals and businesses can demonstrate leadership in the renewable energy transition, giving you or your team confidence to actively contribute to change.

  • Understand the evolution and current state of the energy and utilities system, and the risks of continued fossil fuel dependence.

  • Articulate pathways to a high renewable energy world and the major technologies driving the transition

Sustainable Business Foundations

Explore the core concepts of sustainability and how they apply to business operations, strategy, and performance.

Sustainable Finance Foundations

Develop a crucial foundational understanding of the risks of the global sustainability crisis and opportunities for a sustainable transition in the finance sector.

Sustainability Innovation Strategy

Discover innovative strategies for fostering sustainability within your organisation.

Sustainable Marketing Foundations

Explore the impact of marketing to understand the key role these departments can play in the sustainable transformation.

Hear from alumni of CISL’s education courses

“This training has been nothing short of amazing and truly eye opening. My vision towards my work environment and its impact has completely changed. I’m very glad I signed up for it.”

Learner, Sustainable Finance Foundations

“This course has truly helped me have a better vision of sustainable finance approaches such as multi-stakeholder initiatives, blended finance and investment banking. I greatly appreciated learning more about the key sustainability challenges that the insurance sector is facing today. I strongly recommend this course!”

Learner, Sustainable Finance Foundations

“The course opened my eyes to the great challenge we face to encourage businesses to become more sustainable. It has made me question my own habits, and thoughts, and given me ideas on how I can be more sustainable in a personal and business setting. The course is excellently structured, and provides clear solutions to the challenges we are facing.”

Learner, Sustainable Business Foundations

“The course presents foundational knowledge in a clear and practical manner, followed by inspiring examples and experiences from leaders in the field. I highly recommend it!”

Learner, Sustainable Business Foundations

Your expert guide to the renewable future:
Meet the Academic Lead

Dr Jan Rosenow

Course Lead and Subject Matter Expert, Renewable Energy Foundations for Business

I’m Dr Jan Rosenow, course lead for Renewable Energy Foundations for Business. I’m a global energy and climate leader, analyst and expert. I wear many hats which include running a clean energy think-tank in Europe called the Regulatory Assistance Project; conducting research for Oxford University; and communicating and influencing in the energy and climate space. I have worked for over 20 years in energy, advising the energy sector, European Commission and governments all over the world.

Here to Support You

Your learning journey with CISL

Discovery Call

Schedule a call with our team to discuss your needs.

Tailored Solutions

We provide a customised learning plan for your organisation.

Seamless Onboarding

Our dedicated team assists you throughout the onboarding process.

Continuous Support

Receive ongoing support to ensure your team’s success.

Watch Onboarding Video

Let’s Talk

Ready to embark on your sustainability journey? Contact us today!