Equality, Diversity, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) is a topic that is more important and relevant now than ever. Everyone has heard of it and has some opinion regarding it. Some consider it just a corporate buzzword used for marketing purposes, while others openly disagree with it. However, for some people, EDI policies are the only way to ensure they have their rights and can live fairly and with dignity. You may not think about it, however, EDI has a great significance in your everyday life without you realising it. Here are four reasons why Equality, Diversity and Inclusion should matter to you.

1. EDI Policies Make You More Employable

Companies are actively seeking individuals who can work effectively in diverse teams. Research indicates that firms with diverse teams and open-minded individuals outperform competitors by 36% (McKinsey & Company, 2020). Companies are looking for people who can work in a diverse environment, with people of different races, genders, cultures, or sexualities. Working in a safe environment can lead to better decision-making, improve business performance, and provide a happier work-life.
Being EDI-aware and understanding other people’s needs shows your maturity and emotional intelligence. It suggests that you can work effectively with diverse types of people and understand individuals outside of your company, such as different consumer groups. It is an excellent asset valued by many modern firms that can help you secure a job at your dream company.
Additionally, UK law ensures the protection of diverse individuals. The Equality Act 2010 prohibits employers from discriminating in the workplace, including during the hiring process.

2. It Helps You Become More Adaptable and Creative

Spending time with diverse people not only helps you understand the importance of EDI, but it also allows you to be more imaginative! Exposure to diverse cultures, lifestyles, and perspectives can be a valuable source of inspiration for your creativity, offering a fresh way of thinking. This is the reason why modern businesses value inclusivity – diverse teams consistently generate more innovative ideas.
From the student perspective – think about our university. One of Westminster University’s best aspects is its diversity. You get the chance to meet people from all around the world and discuss your different cultures. Moreover, you have a fantastic opportunity to learn what life is like in other countries from the perspective of a person who lived there – something that you will not find easily on the internet. This enables students to learn from one another and gain insights that they may never have considered before.

3. EDI Improves Daily Life and Wellbeing

EDI is not only a social media and marketing trend. It is something that impacts us in our everyday lives. When people feel safe and treated with dignity, they have the freedom to create amazing things. Things like the fear of being judged when being and expressing yourself are the most influential creative blocks that repress people’s natural talents, and they stop them from thriving.
Even small things, such as using appropriate language or asking respectful questions when we don’t understand something about another person, can enhance everyone’s everyday experience. It allows people not to be constantly anxious or insecure about something. It makes universities and work environments places where people can freely flourish and exchange their experiences.
EDI is not just about policies. It is the small things that we do every day that create an environment where we can thrive – including you. When you contribute, you also contribute to your future quality of life.

4. EDI Education Helps You Recognise Harmful Political Narratives

EDI education is critical to ensure that people are not influenced by harmful, often populist, political narratives. Throughout history (and even currently), politicians have used various types of minorities as scapegoats, in times of economic or social instability, as a way to justify their damaging actions or policies. Even further, minorities have often been blamed for causing instability within a country. This way, politicians usually try to escape responsibility and give people a simple reason why the crisis is going on – without taking accountability for it themselves.
A strong understanding of diverse people helps people recognise when a group is being mistreated or discriminated against. It allows people to realise when media channels are not being objective or are just straightforwardly manipulative. For these reasons, it is necessary that all of us are educated on this matter, so we can ensure that no one (including ourselves) is being manipulated or mistreated.

Conclusion

EDI is not just an idea. It is a set of skills, values, and mindsets, but more importantly, it is about people. It allows you to have your freedoms, rights and fair opportunities. From being more employable to boosting your creativity, to improving your wellbeing and protecting you from harmful policies, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusivity benefits us in ways that we don’t consider on a daily basis. You don’t have to be an expert on this topic to have a significant influence. Even words or small gestures can contribute to creating a better world and a brighter future for everyone, including you. For more information visit: https://www.amnesty.org/en/what-we-do/discrimination/

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Many students believe that living sustainably requires too much effort and is too expensive, especially in a city like London. I know – I used to be one of these students myself. However, living sustainably can actually help you save more money. For example, the 2023 WRAP report on food waste revealed that wasting food costs UK citizens approximately £17 billion per year (WRAP, 2023). The truth is that being sustainable can be easy, and even with small everyday changes, you can both save money and contribute to the environment. Here are 10 tips on how you can live sustainably as a Westminster student.

1. Shop Second-Hand

Shopping second-hand is a great way to save up money and reduce the environmental impact of fast fashion. However, some thrift stores can be pretty expensive. But there is no need for you to worry! London is one of the best cities for second-hand fashion. Besides vintage stores, the city is full of charity shops where you can get exciting clothing pieces that will help you express yourself at an affordable price. Moreover, here at Westminster, many campuses organise thrift sales, so don’t forget to check them out!

2. Reduce Your Food Waste

Be honest – we all have that one item in the fridge that has been there for decades and has become a historical artefact at this point. I am guilty of that too. Very often, I tend to buy too many groceries and end up throwing half of them because I don’t have time to cook every day. Next time, before you go to the grocery store, try to plan out your meals for the week ahead. When buying something, think: Am I actually going to use it, and if so, for what? This way, you will avoid wasting your money and food.

3. Try Having a Vegetarian Meal Once in a While

Don’t worry, I am not asking you to completely change your diet. However, having a vegetarian meal occasionally can be beneficial for both you and the environment. According to studies, the entire food production process, from farm to plate, accounts for 26% of all global greenhouse gas emissions (Vegetarian Society, 2025). I know that coming up with new dishes can be a challenge so if you are not sure what to eat, you can always try the delicious vegetarian food options at the university’s cafeteria!

4. Don’t Immediately Throw Out Something if it Breaks – Try to Fix it!

The easiest way to be sustainable is to use the things you already own. When something breaks, don’t immediately go to Amazon; instead, try looking up solutions online if it is possible to fix it. You can also go to a repair store if it turns out to be too challenging.

5. Join Sustainability Initiatives at Westminster

Getting involved makes being sustainable more meaningful and engaging. It can also enhance your university experience. Who knows, maybe you will meet a friend for life during one of our university’s events.
At the University of Westminster, there are plenty of sustainability events, including Sustainability Week and the London Student Sustainability Conference. So come and show your engagement!

6. Use Reusable Water Bottles and Coffee Cups

This is one of the simplest sustainability habits that can make a significant difference, especially for students who purchase drinks on campus daily. According to studies, drinking just three coffees a week in a reusable coffee cup saves 5.5kg of CO2e. It would also save half a kilo of plastic and 150 coffee cups (Thomas, 2024).
Moreover, you can be creative and make a statement with your reusable cup. Pick a design that reflects your style, making it a fashionable everyday-use accessory!

7. Lower Your Energy Use in Student Accommodation

You can make a significant change, even just from your room. Whether you live in halls or a rented flat, these small habits can cut your carbon footprint – and your electric bill:

• Remember to turn off the lights when leaving your room – even if it’s just for a minute,
• Unplug the charges if they are not in use – they still consume power,
• Wash clothes at 30 degrees,
• Avoid leaving radiators on when windows are open or when you are leaving for a longer time,
• Don’t let the water run unnecessarily in the sink when brushing your teeth or washing the dishes.

8. Use Eco-Friendly Study Materials

Small academic habits add up. It’s estimated that universities generate over 250,000 tonnes of waste annually, which has a harmful impact on the environment (Hills Waste Solutions, n. d.). Therefore, if possible, try to choose recycled notebooks or refillable pens to reduce your waste. Using digital notes is also a good solution. Furthermore, try to print on both sides of the paper sheet or switch to digital readers, as it saves a lot of paper throughout the year.

9. Recycle

Recycling is one of the easiest and least time-consuming habits that has a positive impact on the environment. Yet we all struggle with it, often unsure which container to put an item in, or simply being too lazy. At Westminster, the colour-coded bins make it simple: paper, plastics, cans and cardboard all have dedicated bins. Remember to always check the label to see if the item you are throwing out is recyclable.

10. Volunteer in one of London’s Community Gardens.

Get involved with London’s community gardens! There are many across the city, such as Marylebone, Regent’s Park or Paddington. These gardens cultivate local herbs, vegetables, and plants that pollinate, thereby supporting the local ecological system and reducing carbon footprint. If you are worried about long-term commitment, there’s no need to – many gardens welcome short-term volunteers.

Summary

London is a city that offers many opportunities for students to live their lives sustainably – whether it’s on the university campus, outside, or even at home. Remember that even a minor change in your habits can have a substantial impact. So take a look at the tips again and choose at least one that you think you can implement in your life.

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