We will be closed on the university holiday, March 31.
CU Boulder is known for its focus on sustainability. As part of the campus community, you can participate in the culture of sustainability. You can find ways to join in at the Environmental Center and support other campus initiatives at the level of participation that works for you. Whether you have been a part of the CU community for decades or just started, it’s never too late to join in the effort.
Environmental Center history
The Environmental Center (E-Center) at CU Boulder has a rich history. Founded in 1970 by students, it's the nation’s longest-standing and most accomplished student-led center of its kind. For over 50 years, the E-Center has helped our campus become a climate justice national leader.
- The E-Center has received many awards recognizing its outstanding achievements.
- Learn more about the history and see the timeline of accomplishments.
- Sign up for the E-Center newsletter to receive news and highlights.
Sustainable Buffs Community
Students can join the Sustainable Buffs Community. The E-Center can help you develop skills, get involved and learn about climate justice. As a Sustainable Buff, you can explore opportunities for self-paced engagement, community building, knowledge and leadership in sustainability.
- Check out the Sustainable Buffs Guide.
- Sign the Sustainable Buffs Pledge and receive email updates from the E-Center.
- Participate in events, service projects and workshops.
Reducing the carbon footprint
Recognized as one of the greenest schools, CU strives to maintain its leadership in sustainability through renewable energy, green buildings, office conservation and energy outreach and education.
In 2021, Chancellor DiStefano issued a call to climate action. The Campus Climate Action Plan is in development. Our university is taking bold action.
- A commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by no later than 2050.
- Developing a Climate Action Plan that will serve as our road map toward achievement through just, equitable climate solutions.
- Partnering with Deloitte to launch the Climate Innovation Collaboratory to translate cutting-edge climate research into action to improve global resilience.
- Striving to embed sustainable and equitable futures into our common curriculum, which is on track for implementation by fall 2023.
- Inventing technologies that will reduce society’s carbon footprint, from carbon-negative cement to next-generation solar cells.
- Implementing an Energy Master Plan that will achieve a 30% reduction in energy use intensity in our buildings by 2035 and 100% emission reductions for our facilities by 2050.
- Engaging with the city of Boulder, Xcel Energy, Boulder Valley School District and others to build a sustainable transportation economy in the Boulder region, including a proposal for shared electric fleet charging, repair, maintenance and workforce training facility.
- Electrification of our campus transportation fleet.
Support sustainability
We can all do our part to promote sustainability on and off campus. Small acts can lead to significant change. You can incorporate new habits, learn ways to improve our campus programs and even save money with tips on becoming more sustainable.
- Reduce food waste and incorporate more plant-based meals and snacks.
- Learn the right way to compost and recycle.
- Use environmentally friendly transportation.
- Conserve energy use and incorporate energy-efficient practices.
- Save water and reduce water waste.
- Vote with your dollar by focusing on how and what products you buy.