Have you ever had waste to discard on campus and thought, “Wait, does this go in the compost? Recycling? Is this can or bottle even able to be recycled?” You’re not alone and the University of Minnesota is working hard to make these choices easier while aiming for zero waste.
The goal is to divert 90% of campus waste away from landfills by composting or recycling it instead. It’s a collaborative effort, and student, faculty, and staff input is essential. That’s where you come in.
Thank you for your interest. This survey is now closed.
Why does this matter?
Waste plays a big role in our environmental impact, and we can do a better job at determining what ends up in the trash truly is meant to be in a landfill. At the University of Minnesota, about 60% of what we throw away could actually be recycled or composted. By sorting waste correctly and being more mindful about what we toss, we can ensure recyclable materials stay out of the landfill.
How can you get involved?
Give feedback! Have ideas for better bin signage? Confused by current sorting? The team at UMN Facilities Management wants to hear from you! Sharing what’s confusing or what could be better helps them make real changes.
Want to learn more or get involved? Check out the Zero Waste page and see how you can become part of the conversation.
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.
The Climate Teach-In returns on Tuesday, April 7 (World Health Day), this year with a focus on climate resilience. Check out the events of the day. 🏆 Know someone doing impactful climate justice or resilience work at the University? Nominate a faculty, staff or student colleague for the Climate Resilience Teach-In Honorary Recognition.