Sustainability at DU

At the University of Denver, we're empowered to create real change through a campus-wide investment in sustainability and environmental responsibility. To us, sustainability involves taking a holistic look at environmental, economic, and social factors affecting our communities, the historical systems we are working to change, and creating a world where ecosystems and societies are able to thrive. It's about reducing energy, water, and material waste, lifting up and creating opportunity for marginalized communities, and building a framework that uses social justice as a lens through which we improve our environment. 

Through on-campus academic programming, extensive research opportunities, student action, and a thoughtful plan for the future, we're working to be leaders in the sustainability movement in Denver and to take a unique and creative approach to our work. We're striving to develop better standards and practices while educating our communities and challenging local, state and national governments to engage in meaningful efforts around the environment.

Join us, and leave your mark on a world that needs your creativity and dedication now more than ever.

38% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions since 2006

690K KWH reduction in electricity usage per year over a 12-year period

8,000 people participated in Center for Sustainability programs in 2018-2019

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Get Involved

Our sustainability programs are built on the interest, passions and hard work of our students, staff and faculty. Learn how you can contribute to a sustainable, just and equitable future on campus and beyond.

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Teaching Sustainability

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Our approach to sustainability leans on integrating students' curricular work with their co-curricular work. Students can choose a sustainability-focused major, minor, concentration, or certificate program offered at our various schools and college and pair that with work they do in internships, student clubs, campus jobs, and independent study opportunities. Whether you're interested in sustainability in international business or want to research the next wave of technology that will improve the health of our ecosystems, we offer a plethora of ways to learn about advancing sustainability initiatives.

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Our Sustainability Efforts

For years, the University of Denver has worked to establish sustainable practices on campus, from retrofitting our buildings for increased efficiency to building partnerships that help provide environmentally responsible options in dining, residential life, and campus mobility. We’ve worked to build programs that make living a sustainable life easier and more accessible, regardless of background or resources. Learn how we're making progress across silos, barriers, and scientific fields to support a more positive outlook for the future.

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About Sustainability at DU

Discover how years of work have made DU a leader in sustainability among institutions of higher learning.

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