Skip to main content

How Kaplan is building a sustainable future through community-led action

Four people's hands up in air, coming together in a pyramid shape

Environmental responsibility isn’t just a buzzword at Kaplan - it’s a commitment that drives meaningful action.

As we continue our mission to empower learners and transform careers, we recognise our responsibility to address the environmental impact of our operations whilst supporting communities worldwide.

This is why we’ve partnered with Plan Vivo to balance our annual direct emissions through certified community-based reforestation projects. This approach goes beyond traditional carbon management by investing in initiatives that create lasting positive change for the environment and local communities.

Our support for Plan Vivo represents more than an environmental initiative - it's part of our broader commitment to responsible business practices that align with our values of supporting people and communities to thrive.

Understanding Plan Vivo

Plan Vivo stands apart in the environmental certification landscape by focusing on community-led projects that deliver genuine and measurable impact. Unlike top-down approaches, Plan Vivo works directly with local communities to develop sustainable land use practices that benefit both people and the environment.

The certification standards ensure that projects meet rigorous requirements for environmental integrity, community ownership, and sustainable development. This means that every project we support through Plan Vivo creates multiple benefits, such as carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, improved livelihoods, and strengthened community resilience.

For organisations like Kaplan UK, this approach aligns perfectly with our educational mission. Just as we believe in empowering individuals through learning, Plan Vivo empowers communities through locally-led environmental stewardship.

Projects we support: Making real impact

Kaplan UK balances our annual direct emissions by investing in two exceptional Plan Vivo certified projects: CommuniTree and Trees for Global Benefits (TBG). Both initiatives exemplify the community-centred approach that makes Plan Vivo certification so effective.

CommuniTree

CommuniTree works with smallholder farmers and rural communities in Nicaragua to restore degraded land through agroforestry - integrating tree planting with traditional farming.

This approach not only captures carbon and supports biodiversity, but also creates sustainable income streams for rural families. As one of the world’s largest community reforestation projects, it provides training, long-term payments, and ongoing support, CommuniTree ensures that environmental restoration goes hand-in-hand with community development, building climate resilience and stronger local livelihoods.

Trees for Global Benefits (TBG)

Trees for Global Benefits is a long running project in Uganda that works with smallholder farmers to restore degraded lands using agroforestry, mixed native woodlots, and improved land-use practices. As trees grow, carbon is sequestered and farmers receive performance-based payments, while also gaining additional income through fruit trees, beekeeping, timber, and firewood. Alongside this, the scheme helps strengthen food, fuel and water security, reduces pressure on nearby forests, and builds resilience for rural communities living with environmental challenges.

Why community-based approaches matter

Plan Vivo’s strength lies in its community-first model. By putting communities in charge, projects are culturally grounded, transparent, and built to last. They don’t just tackle carbon, they improve livelihoods, strengthen food security, and build resilience for the future.

For Kaplan, this mirrors our belief that lasting change happens when people are equipped with the skills and resources to lead their own solutions.

Taking action: your role in building a sustainable future

Whether you're a current learner, a business partner, or someone considering Kaplan UK for your professional development needs, you can be confident that your association with us supports meaningful environmental action.

For organisations looking to enhance their own environmental responsibility, consider how partnerships like ours with Plan Vivo can create genuine impact whilst aligning with your broader business.

Together, we're creating not just professional success, but a more sustainable future for everyone.

Upskill in ESG reporting and sustainable investing

Learn more

Table of contents

Share article

Related articles

How Kaplan is building a sustainable future through community-led action

How Kaplan is building a sustainable future through community-led action

At Kaplan, we are taking climate action beyond carbon and supporting Plan Vivo projects to empower communities.

Kaplan

3 minute read

Five futures funded: introducing the 2025 Kaplan AAT bursary recipients

Five futures funded: introducing the 2025 Kaplan AAT bursary recipients

We’re delighted to announce that five inspiring individuals have been awarded our new Kaplan AAT Bursary.

Kaplan

8 minute read

From rescue shelters to healing gardens: How Kaplan volunteers made a difference in Greater Manchester

From rescue shelters to healing gardens: How Kaplan volunteers made a difference in Greater Manchester

Kaplan volunteers supported Greater Manchester communities, from animal rescue to healing gardens, making a meaningful local impact.

Kaplan

3 minute read

View all articles