Sustainability & Green Chemistry in Guatemala
In Guatemala, you will learn about the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and how different organizations are working towards these goals through the development of new technologies and processes. You’ll speak with experts from both Minnesota and Guatemala to find out how people all over the world are coming together to fight climate change and create a more sustainable future.
In this program, you will:
Explore the topic of green chemistry and sustainability through the history, culture, and focus on the community in Guatemala.
Stay in the UNESCO World Heritage City of Antigua and traverse the vast landscapes from lakes to ancient archeological sites.
Partner with local students to explore local solutions and discuss environmental challenges
Led by Edgar Arriaga, College of Science and Engineering
On-Campus Class: Fridays from 2:15–3:55 p.m., Smith Hall 111
Study Abroad: March 6–March 15, 2026
Receive credit for: CHEM 1917 or CHEM 2917
To receive credit for CHEM 2917, you must have completed one semester of a 1xxx level Chemistry course or receive instructor consent to enroll
Liberal Education Fulfillments: Global Perspectives: The Environment (approved for CHEM 1917, pending for CHEM 2917)
Application deadline: December 1, 2025
Fee reduction: automatically receive a $1000 fee reduction to the billed program fee if you are among the first 10 students to confirm your participation by December 1.
Contact Anna DeWitt at [email protected], or call at 612.626.2234.
Learn more about Sustainability & Green Chemistry in Guatemala
Health in Ecuador: History, Environment, & Culture
The future health of our world requires a generation of creative, motivated, strategic, expansive thinkers collaborating across disciplines and sectors to proactively protect the health of human and animal populations and the environment in which they live. Ecuador is an ideal location to incorporate cultural contexts with an understanding of the intersection between human health and the environment.
During this program, you will:
Learn about the intersection between human health and the environment by studying the history of health and culture of Ecuador.
Learn about the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and Ecuador’s efforts to meet those goals by 2030.
Discover Ecuador’s natural beauty by visiting the Andes mountains and a thermal spring, as well as learning about the unique culture and ongoing sustainability efforts.
Led by Karin Hamilton & Scott Simpson, Pre-Health Student Resource Center
On-Campus course: Tuesdays 2:30–4:25 p.m, A term (East Bank)
Study Abroad: March 6–March 15, 2026
Receive credit for: AHS 3004
Liberal Education Fulfillments: Global Perspectives
Application deadline: December 1, 2025
Fee reduction: automatically receive a $1000 fee reduction to the billed program fee if you are among the first 10 students to confirm your participation by December 1.
Contact Jemma Lund at [email protected], or call at 612.625.8827
Learn more about Health in Ecuador: History, Environment, & Culture
Welcome, new and returning students! Did you know that students and faculty at the U have access to a Universal Transit Pass included with student fees, so you can explore the Twin Cities sustainably? The Coffee Passport has directions to coffee shops owned by ethnically diverse communities, less than 15 minutes away from the East Bank. Together, we can save time, money and CO2 emissions to achieve the U’s Climate Action Plan of reducing commuting emissions by 40% by 2030. Download the Coffee Passport.
Join and on July 15 from 9-10 a.m. at for the groundbreaking of the first of seven new solar installations planned for the Twin Cities campus. It's an exciting milestone as we continue expanding renewable energy and advancing our Climate Action Plan.
By Sunhari Jacob, Student Engagement Strategy Assistant
The 2026 Campus Conservation Challenge engaged more than 220 students in reducing residence hall energy use, resulting in measurable savings and increased sustainability engagement. The challenge demonstrated how collective action can create meaningful environmental impact on campus.
The University of Minnesota Twin Cities has received a STARS® Gold rating! The Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System™ (STARS®) Gold rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) recognizes the long-term sustainability goals and performances for all higher education. Read the extended summary.
Check out an EV from HOURCAR and an electric Chevrolet Equinox from Fleet, and test ride bikes from Lime and scooters from Spin. Ice cream from the University Meat and Dairy Salesroom available while supplies last! Wed. May 27, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lilly Plaza.
Join the University of Minnesota Twin Cities for Bike to Work Day on Tuesday, May 12 from 8 to 10 a.m. and show your support for sustainable commuting! Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just getting started, this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the ride, connect with fellow bikers and get rewarded for your pedal power. Stop by these two campus locations for FREE treats, giveaways and services:
- University Bike Center at Oak Street Ramp
- Pleasant Street SE at University Avenue
Upcoming Coffee Chat: Student Project Spotlight
Monday, May 4, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Our Sustainability student staff have been busy this semester! Join us to hear everything about student sustainability work happening at the Twin Cities and University Sustainability offices.
Speakers:
- Diya Shah - Graduate Student & Data Analyst Intern, University Sustainability
- Ella Chilson - Student Sustainability Assistant, University Sustainability
- Giselle Muñoz-Semple - Student Sustainability Assistant, University Sustainability
- Cole Becker - Student Sustainability Assistant, University Sustainability
- Yvonne Mongare - Undergraduate Student & Climate Resilience Public Health Task Force Coordinator, Focus on Vulnerable Communities, Office of Sustainability at Twin Cities
Recording coming soon
As Northrop approaches its centennial in 2029, the University of Minnesota landmark has reached a major milestone: one of the University’s most iconic and historic buildings is now Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) v4.1 Operations + Maintenance (O+M) Gold certified.
Northrop is the first University of Minnesota facility to achieve LEED Gold under this rigorous standard for existing buildings. The certification reflects Northrop’s commitment to honor its historic legacy while building for the future, demonstrating that sustainability is not limited to new construction. Historic buildings can also evolve, improve and lead. Read more about Northrop’s LEED Gold certification and what it means
Today, on World Health Day, University of Minnesota President Rebecca Cunningham signed the Okanagan Charter, making the University a designated Health Promoting Campus.
The signing ceremony took place during the University’s Climate Resilience Teach-In, heralding the organization’s commitment to prioritizing health and sustainability. Read more about the University's commitment to the Okanagan Charter
Explore the future of sustainable transportation at the Fleet EV Test Drive and Car Show! Stop by Maroon Lot to check out electric vehicles available through University Fleet Services, learn more about EV options for departments that purchase or rent fleet vehicles. Wednesday, April 29, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Maroon Lot, north side of Huntington Bank Stadium