Rebecca Smith

Rebecca Smith

Geography lecturer at UHI North West and Hebrides

Rebecca is passionate about creating sustainable futures for rural communities. With a BSc in Geography and an MSc in Sustainable Rural Development from Aberdeen University, her career spans environmental consultancy, academic research, and community development.

In 2009, she relocated to the Isle of Lewis and began a PhD exploring whether remote areas could embrace a reuse culture as a sustainable alternative to traditional recycling. While raising three children, Rebecca founded Roots for Low Impact Living CIC, to support the setting up of a neighbourhood shop promoting the reuse of clothing, books, and locally-made crafts—powered by a dedicated group of local volunteers.

As a module leader for MSc Sustainable Mountain Development and BA Geography programmes, Rebecca helps students explore sustainability and the circular economy, with a focus on empowering communities. Her research interests span the intersection of consumerism, sustainability, and community-driven change.

When not teaching or researching, you’ll find Rebecca connecting with local initiatives to champion a more sustainable and resourceful way of living.