Overview #
Community Learning and Action for Sustainable Living (CLASL) was a UK-based pilot project that used participatory engagement and action learning to empower four community groups in Surrey to adopt sustainable living practices. It found that whilst ecological footprint changes were modest, the project fostered social learning, improved environmental behaviours, and built lasting community capacity for sustainability.
Abstract #
Community Learning and Action for Sustainable Living (CLASL) was a pioneering three-year initiative led by WWF-UK that explored how local communities can define and work towards more sustainable ways of living. The project developed and tested a practical model of community engagement, rooted in action learning and collective reflection, with four community groups in Surrey. Through this approach, participants identified their own sustainability priorities, took practical actions such as energy audits, recycling and “swap” events. They also built their confidence, skills and networks to continue their work beyond the project.
The CLASL project applied all six core social marketing principles, including explicit social goals, citizen orientation, audience segmentation, and barrier reduction. It used participatory planning, action learning, and tailored delivery to foster sustainable behaviors. Evaluation included ecological footprint benchmarking, surveys, and interviews. Ethical practice was ensured through transparency, community-led reflection, and adaptive management. The intervention delivered measurable personal and group value, including increased confidence, skills, and sustainability leadership. The project’s methodology and lessons continue to inform community sustainability practice and offer a scalable model for collaborative local action.
Access #
This open access case study is available at: https://www.thensmc.com/resources/showcase/community-learning-and-action-sustainable-living-clasl
Location #
Location: Surrey, United Kingdom (Reigate, Stoughton, Buckland, Cranleigh)
Continent: Europe
Key words #
Sustainable living, empowerment, environmental education, recycling, energy conservation, water conservation
Environmental: Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation; Sustainable Production and Consumption; Waste; Water and Sanitation
Social: Education; Environmental Health; Physical Activity; Reducing Other Inequities
