Student sustainability programs and opportunities

Building a sustainable future together

At University of Idaho, sustainability is a core value that permeates all that we do. Our goal is to create sustainability leaders committed to making our world a better place. We are Idaho’s leader in sustainable solutions.

As a U of I student, you'll have the opportunity to create real change on campus through grass-roots initiatives, projects and events that integrate sustainable practices into our daily lives and reduce our environmental footprint.

Sustainable campus practices

Our campus community is dedicated to sustainability, and, as a student, you’ll play a big role. From conserving water and embracing renewable energy to making eco-friendly choices in dorms, small actions lead to big impact.

Get started today by exploring the Green Living Guide or sign up for the Recycling Ambassador Training to learn simple ways to reduce your environmental impact at UIdaho.

Do your part

At U of I, sustainability is more than just a classroom topic — it’s a lifestyle. Here are ways you can get involved and expand your knowledge of sustainable practices.

Academics

Take your passion for sustainability to the next level with our degree programs and certificates focused on environmental impact, sustainable business practices and more.

Use Degree Finder to explore programs that align with your interests. Be sure to select Sustainability under topics of interest to see all available options.

No matter your major, you can also enhance your degree with the Sustainability Certificate — a 12-credit interdisciplinary program that covers ecological, social and economic perspectives on sustainability.

Learn more about the Sustainability Certificate

Vandal Sustainability Pledge

Join the Vandal Sustainability Pledge to actively contribute to reducing emissions, conserving resources, promoting sustainable food systems and managing waste responsibly on campus. By taking the pledge, you help make U of I a more eco-friendly place to live and learn.

Take the Vandal Sustainability Pledge

Student Sustainability Cooperative

University of Idaho is one of the few universities in the West with a student-led and funded organization dedicated to promoting sustainability on campus.

The Student Sustainability Cooperative empowers students to lead the way in creating a culture of social, economic and environmental responsibility at U of I. Get involved through hands-on programs and events like:

• Earth Jam: Celebrate Earth Day with live music, local food and eco-friendly activities.
• EcoVandals: Promote sustainable habits and inspire your peers through outreach and education.
• Repurpose the Purge: Give gently used dorm items a second life and reduce landfill waste.
• Sustainable Initiatives Fund: Apply for up to $10,000 in funding for student-driven projects that make campus more sustainable.

Be part of the movement toward a greener future. Follow the Student Sustainability Cooperative on Instagram to stay updated on programs and ways to get involved.

Clubs and student groups

Want to connect with like-minded peers? U of I has over 200 student organizations, and many of them focus on sustainability and environmental stewardship. Here are a few to check out:

• Society for Conservation Biology: Connect with conservation leaders around the world, as well as right here on the Palouse.
• Soil Stewards: Gain valuable experience in local, organic and sustainable farming for students and the surrounding community.
• Paradise Audubon Society: Delve into the world of birdwatching through group hikes, guest lectures and community service.
• Hydroponics Club: Explore the art and science of growing plants without soil by managing hydroponics systems on campus.

Explore student clubs on Engage UIdaho

Events and service-learning opportunities

Get hands-on with sustainability through a variety of service-learning opportunities, such as:

• Get Rooted: Help restore endangered Palouse Prairie native plants in our community.
• Spruce the Palouse: Participate in a community-wide clean-up day.
• Get Dirty: Volunteer on the Soil Stewards Farm to plant, weed and harvest crops.
• Game Day Recycling: Collect recyclables from students, alumni and fans during tailgating at home football games.
• Bee a Volunteer: Support local pollinators by planting native, bee-friendly plants on campus.
• Protecting Paradise: Help replace “No-Dumping” labels on our campus storm drains.

Check out what other events are coming up on campus

Celebrate sustainability

Each year, U of I recognizes outstanding sustainability efforts through the Sustainability Champion Awards. This annual ceremony honors individuals, organizations and projects that make a real impact on sustainability across campus.

Recognized for excellence in sustainability

University of Idaho has received several prestigious sustainability certifications, including Bee Campus USA and Tree Campus USA. We’re also proud to be the only school in Idaho to earn the Gold STARS rating for sustainability from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE).