By Sunhari Jacob, Student Engagement Strategy Assistant
This April, I was fortunate enough to host another round of the Campus Conservation Challenge, after an impactful run in 2025. With over 220 participants competing to decrease their dorm’s energy use by the largest amount from April 1 to 30 last year, the 2026 Campus Conservation Challenge saw spectacular results that are driving a long-term culture of sustainability.
Results
Check out the visual below to set some context for these savings!
As a result, 5 lucky participants from Bailey were drawn to win prize bags with JBL speakers, water bottles, and Office of Sustainability merch!
From our Earth Month reel and pledge walls at tabling sessions across campus, students promised to decrease their energy use by:
- Unplugging devices before class
- Reducing gaming hours
- Using natural daylight
- Taking the stairs, and more!
The 2026 Campus Conservation Challenge continues to serve as an example of how we can come together to create sustainable impact through collective energy conservation.
How UMN Students Feel About Sustainable Living
This year, we also held surveys to evaluate student attitudes towards sustainability. In exchange for their responses, participants would gain an extra entry to the raffle for prizes. Insights from the 132 respondents revealed that while students feel informed and confident about their ability to live sustainably, confidence in their peers is significantly lower!
However, this competition serves as a reminder that this is not true! We saw participation from more than 3% of on-campus residents, and real, data-driven sustainable impact.
Therefore, I urge you to talk about sustainability, follow eco-friendly student groups, and connect with the Office of Sustainability by signing up for our newsletter, and following us on Instagram @umnsustainability.
I hope the campaign reminds us of the strength students have over creating a greener campus, and a greener future, by simply transforming their energy habits.
Find more information about the 2026 Challenge and our methodology. Let’s keep up the momentum by remembering to flip the switch!
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
April is Earth Month! Check out our frequently updated list of events to get involved. Check it out.
Have an event to share? Email us.