On July 3rd, the ZERO Institute welcomed more than 30 sixth-form students to its annual Oxford ZERO Carbon Day, giving students interested in the energy transition an opportunity to explore the science, technology and societal challenges of achieving a zero-carbon future.
Reflecting the ZERO Institute’s multidisciplinary approach, the programme combined STEM and social science perspectives to help students understand both the technical and human dimensions of the energy transition.
Participants heard insightful lectures from Felippa Amanta on the human context of reducing and decarbonising energy, and Professor Robert House on the science of rechargeable batteries for a zero-carbon energy future.
A particular highlight for some students was the practical laboratory session, where they built their own solar-powered lights with support from Engineering student ambassadors.
“The lab session was very interactive and fun and my student ambassador was very friendly and helpful.”
“I liked the hands-on experience and the circuit was like a puzzle!”
Students also experienced life at the University of Oxford through an admissions talk, lunch at St John’s College, and the opportunity to meet and chat informally with Oxford academics, researchers and undergraduate students.
Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with every participant saying they would recommend the experience to others. The day was described as:
“Well run and very insightful.”
“Fun and informative.”
One student also commented that:
“Being a small group made it easier to ask questions and engage with students.”
Students travelled from as far away as Kent to attend the event.
Oxford ZERO Carbon Day 2026 was organised by the ZERO Institute in collaboration with the Department of Engineering Science and the St John’s Inspire Programme.
