Upcoming Climate Literacy Teach-In Events
Are you passionate about climate change or looking to deepen your understanding of how to take meaningful action? Join the Office of Sustainability for some engaging and interactive Climate Literacy Teach-In events this November! Whether you're new to the topic or a regular advocate, these events are for you to become inspired.
Highlighted Events:
Kickoff Breakfast
Start your day with a delicious, sustainably-catered Kickoff Breakfast hosted by the Learning Abroad Center! The breakfast will take place before the Teach-In from 9:00AM until 11:00AM in the President's Room (3rd Floor) of Coffman Memorial Union. It is the perfect opportunity to meet other students and faculty passionate about climate issues!
Climate Literacy Teach-In: November 14th
On Thursday, November 14th from 11am-2pm (Lunch is provided!), we invite you to an exciting, hands-on Climate Literacy 101 Teach-In event here at the University of Minnesota in the Mississippi Room (3rd floor), Coffman Memorial Union. You will have the opportunity to participate in interactive activities and discussions with topic experts from across the University of Minnesota. This event is designed to deepen your understanding of climate change and learn what meaningful action looks like.
Host Your Own Climate Conversation
Do you want to make a difference but can’t attend the event in person? No problem! You can take part in a self-guided activity by hosting your own climate conversation. Talking about climate change and your own personal climate stories is a tangible way to start making an impact. Whether it’s with friends, family, or classmates, talking about climate change and sharing personal stories can spark awareness and inspire others to take action.
Roles you will need:
- Conversation Facilitator - You do NOT need to be a climate expert to facilitate this activity. You just need to be open and willing to listen.
- Conversation Participants - You do not need any prior climate knowledge or experience.
Great things can start with a simple conversation—so let’s talk about climate!
Mark your calendar for November 14th and take advantage of these engaging opportunities to build your climate literacy and make a difference!
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.