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Sustainability at Western

Western's Sustainability Commitment

From academic programs focused on global sustainability and environmental management to hands-on opportunities right here on campus, we empower students to lead the way in creating a more sustainable future. Our campus-wide initiatives, from waste reduction programs to student-led initiatives like the on-campus composter, make a real impact, while partnerships across the Gunnison Valley drive broader environmental action.

Get Involved

FreeCycle
Funding
Zero Waste Kits

A completely free, community thrift store open to everyone, helping divert waste and promote sustainability on campus and in Gunnison.

Students can request funds to support renewable energy initiatives, reduce waste, promote reuse and recycling, and encourage responsible stewardship of campus resources and land.

Hosting an event? Make it zero waste! LEAD Sustainability has Zero Waste kits to check out. Western is committed to pursuing Zero Waste, and one-time use plates, cups, and utensils are a significant component of the waste produced on campus. To help you boost your event’s positive impact, we offer Zero Waste Kits to reduce waste produced on campus. Our Zero Waste Kits contain reusable plates (two sizes), bowls, cups, utensils, and cloth napkins.

Additionally, we have included proper care instructions and instructions for washing kits on campus. The kits can accommodate events of up to 100 people. Please fill out the form below to request a kit for your event. If you have further questions, please email LEAD Sustainability at leadsustainablity@western.edu or come to the LEAD Office at University Center 118.

Student Sustainability Clubs

Organics Guild

Organics Guild

The mission of the Organics Guild is to provide students with experiential learning through regenerative gardening practices. We promote student autonomy while cultivating knowledge about resilient food systems in cold climates. We aim to implement food sovereignty practices and help address food insecurity in Gunnison by supplying locally produced food to Western students.

Meeting Times: Email organicsguild@western.edu for meeting times

LEAD Sustainability

LEAD Sustainability

A student-led department that is creating a culture of sustainability through education, collaboration and unification by growing and strengthening the Western community and beyond.

Meeting Times: Tuesdays at 12:30 PM

Located: LEAD Office

Western Solar Society – Student Chapter of American Solar Energy Society

Western Solar Society – Student Chapter of American Solar Energy Society

Our mission is to encourage renewable energy adoption through education and community projects. Open to all students interested in promoting sustainability.

Meeting Times: Tuesdays at 5:30 PM

Located: Kelley Fireside Lounge

Academic Programs

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Western has many academic programs based on sustainability. This includes programs in the Clark School of Environment & Sustainability, School of Business, Department of Recreation, and Natural & Environmental Sciences and more.

Campus Operations

Waste Diversion

Transportation

Food and Dining

Purchasing Policy

Buildings

Planning and Administration

Coordination and Planning

Diversity and Affordability

Investment and Finance

Purchasing Policy

Community Collaboration

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As climate challenges grow, sustainable solutions matter more than ever. Western strives to lead the greater Gunnison community by working to create a sustainable campus and is proud to partner with many local organizations to launch creative and lasting projects.