CAP workshop TV signage
Climate Action Planning Workshop: November 15th

Your voice matters. Register to join the Climate Action Planning Workshop to provide your input on how the University should eliminate emissions and adapt to a changing climate. There will be a brief presentation (20 minutes) followed by small group breakouts. Snacks provided. 

November 15th, 2022, 4-5:30pm

Moos Tower room 1-451 (FIRST FLOOR!)

This event is free and open to all students, staff, faculty, and members of the University community. Stay tuned for upcoming virtual engagement opportunities.

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How to find Room 1-451

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Want to spread the word about this event? Download the poster.

Learn more about climate action planning at the University of Minnesota

All Sustainability News

"Illicit discharges are considered 'illicit' because MS4s are not designed to accept, process, or discharge such non-stormwater wastes." (EPA) As water runs down the street into storm drains, contaminated with illicit discharge (such as cigarette butts, trash, salt, vehicle fluids, or yard waste) from the street, it flows back down through the stormwater system and back into the river. Learn how you can help or report illicit discharge on campus.

CAP interns presentations 2025 graphic banner maroon and gold
Join us in celebrating the work of the UMN students who have helped advance the Climate Action Plan (CAP) through their work and studies this year.

Friday, May 9, 2025
11:30am–1pm
Zoom only (After registering, you will receive a Google Calendar invitation with the Zoom link.)
 

By Sunhari Jacob, Energy Conservation Intern at the Office of Sustainability

Collective action works—and this spring’s Campus Conservation Competition proved it. Over 140 students across 11 residence halls joined the effort to reduce energy use, and the results were clear: small actions added up to real, measurable change. Students led the charge, raising awareness and cutting consumption in just three weeks. The numbers speak for themselves! Read more

EV Test Drive banner, maroon with gold and white

Facilities Management staff: Join us for an Electric Vehicle Test Drive event!

Test drive hybrid and fully electric vehicles that could fit your department's needs. Fleet Services and Office of Sustainability staff will be onsite to answer your questions.

Wednesday, May 7th, 11:00am - 1:30pm
Fleet Services (901 29th Ave SE, Minneapolis)

Refreshments provided!

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Share this event: z.umn.edu/EVtestdrive

The UMN Office of Sustainability and Campus Cleanup Crew are joining for a Stormwater Cleanup event focused on protecting our environment and keeping campus beautiful. Taking place at Knoll Park outside Peik Hall, we invite students to learn about stormwater's impact while taking direct action through litter cleanup. It's the perfect way to give back and get involved! 🌎

Not sure where your waste goes on campus? You’re not alone. The University of Minnesota is working to divert 90% of waste from landfills through recycling and composting. Nearly 60% of trash could be sorted better—your choices matter. Want to help UMN go zero waste? Get involved and join the conversation today. Learn more and take the survey.

Earth Month events 2025

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.

In 2024, the University of Minnesota Twin Cities achieved 9,864,660 kilowatt hours in electricity savings, surpassing the highest level of conservation goal set by Xcel Energy. That’s enough electricity to power 1,100 average Minnesota homes for a year and avoid 7.6 million pounds of CO2 emissions. As a result of our efforts through energy projects on campus, the University received $724,815 in rebates, plus an additional $147,246 for reaching our goal. The rebate ultimately goes back into a cycle within the University, allowing us to continue investing in energy reduction and working to reduce our energy use. The pie chart below highlights where these savings came from, with Lighting (35%) and HVAC (24%) contributing the most. Thanks to Energy Management and all who support these efforts!

Do you have input regarding the University of Minnesota Twin Cities' Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program? 

"Illicit discharges are considered 'illicit' because MS4s are not designed to accept, process, or discharge such non-stormwater wastes." (EPA) As water runs down the street into storm drains, contaminated with illicit discharge (such as cigarette butts, trash, salt, vehicle fluids, or yard waste) from the street, it flows back down through the stormwater system and back into the river. Learn how you can help or report illicit discharge on campus.