Universities are at the forefront of climate action, implementing innovative programs that reduce their environmental footprint and create lasting change. Here are 15 notable initiatives led by individuals and institutions in higher education that are advancing sustainability.
1. Campus Sustainability Month: Food Waste and Recycling Focus at New England Colleges
For Campus Sustainability Month, New England colleges partnered with Vanguard Renewables to launch comprehensive food waste recycling initiatives. James W. R. Morris, President of Vanguard Renewables, emphasized the role of these programs in “creating a culture of sustainability” among students and staff.
2. Lees-McRae College’s Award-Winning Sustainability Efforts
Led by President Lee King, Lees-McRae College has gained recognition for its sustainability initiatives, which focus on waste reduction, energy conservation, and biodiversity preservation. “Sustainability is integral to our mission,” King said, reflecting the college’s commitment to eco-conscious practices.
3. Bicycle-Friendly Universities Initiative for Sustainable Transportation
The League of American Bicyclists recognized universities like Stanford and UC Berkeley for promoting bike-friendly, low-emission campuses. Bill Nesper, Executive Director of the League, praised these institutions, calling them “models for a sustainable commuting future.”
4. Notre Dame’s University-Wide Sustainability Initiative Led by Arun Agrawal
Professor Arun Agrawal leads Notre Dame’s university-wide sustainability initiative, focused on embedding climate action into every aspect of campus life. “Sustainability must be a university-wide priority,” Agrawal stated, emphasizing the importance of an integrated approach to environmental challenges.
5. Virginia Tech Achieves High STARS Rating for Sustainability
Under the guidance of Bryan Garey, Associate VP for Human Resources, Virginia Tech received a top STARS rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE). This achievement recognizes the university’s advancements in renewable energy and waste management.
6. UW-Madison’s Ambitious Environmental Sustainability Initiative
Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin at UW-Madison launched a comprehensive sustainability program focused on research, student engagement, and climate resilience. Mnookin noted, “We’re investing in the future of our planet and our students,” highlighting the program’s commitment to addressing ecological challenges.
7. University of Toronto’s Commitment to the Circular Economy
Led by Professor Dianne Saxe, the University of Toronto celebrated Circular Economy Month by promoting sustainable resource management, emphasizing waste reduction and material repurposing. “The circular economy represents a sustainable path forward,” Saxe stated.
8. Syracuse University’s New Sustainable Dining Center
Sarah Rich, Syracuse University’s Director of Sustainability, led the development of a new, eco-friendly dining facility with energy-efficient appliances and waste reduction initiatives. “Sustainable dining is a cornerstone of our environmental efforts,” Rich emphasized.
9. Dartmouth Climate Collaborative Led by Melody Brown Burkins
Led by Rosi Kerr and Laura Ogden, Dartmouth’s Climate Collaborative integrates climate education and research across disciplines, equipping students with the skills to tackle climate issues.
10. Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) Achieves Gold Rating in Sustainability
Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), led by the Sustainability Office under Mark Lievonen, achieved a Gold STARS rating from AASHE. This rating recognizes TMU’s progress in sustainable energy, water conservation, and waste management. Lievonen stated, “This achievement reflects TMU’s commitment to a sustainable campus.”
11. Carnegie Mellon’s Sustainability Initiative Headed by Deanna Matthews
Under the guidance of Deanna Matthews, Associate Teaching Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University’s Sustainability Initiative addresses urban challenges through research and collaboration with local organizations. Matthews noted, “Our goal is to create solutions that have real-world impact on urban sustainability.”
12. Washington and Lee University Recognized for Green Campus Efforts
Washington and Lee University, led by Sustainability Director Jane Stewart, received accolades for its eco-friendly initiatives in energy conservation, water management, and green building. Stewart emphasized, “Our campus is committed to minimizing its environmental footprint.”
13. Thompson Rivers University’s Expanding Sustainability Programs
Thompson Rivers University (TRU), recognized for its growing sustainability initiatives, is led by James Gordon, Director of Sustainability. TRU’s programs focus on waste reduction, energy efficiency, and eco-friendly transportation. Gordon stated, “Sustainability is at the core of TRU’s mission to positively impact our community.”
14. Duke University Achieves Carbon Neutrality Milestone
Duke University celebrated a major milestone in its sustainability journey by achieving carbon neutrality. Tallman Trask III, Executive Vice President, led the initiative with extensive campus-wide changes in energy use, carbon offsets, and renewable energy. Trask commented, “Achieving carbon neutrality is a testament to Duke’s long-standing commitment to environmental responsibility.”
15. New England College Food Waste Recycling Program with Chelsea Schepker
Chelsea Schepker, Vanguard Renewables’ Sustainability Director, leads a food waste recycling program across New England colleges. This partnership aims to significantly reduce campus food waste through recycling and composting. Schepker emphasized, “Our mission is to foster sustainable habits at every level of campus life.”
Climate Insider Notes:
- Sustainability Leaders in Action: Individuals like Jane Stewart, Deanna Matthews, and Tallman Trask III are driving change at their institutions, each bringing unique expertise to sustainability efforts.
- Expanding Recognition for Green Initiatives: High STARS ratings and milestones like carbon neutrality at Duke demonstrate the growing impact of universities in sustainability.
- Sustainable Dining and Waste Management: Programs at institutions like Syracuse and New England colleges show a growing focus on eco-friendly dining and food waste reduction.
- Commitment to a Circular Economy: Canadian universities like Thompson Rivers and Toronto Metropolitan are increasingly integrating circular economy principles into their campus operations.
These initiatives demonstrate how universities are leading the charge in climate action, using their resources and expertise to create more sustainable futures.
Featured Image: Credit: Rosie Cicmanec for Virginia Tech
