Local to Global Leadership

Providing the world with affordable energy, water, and food to improve the standard of living for billions of world residents who live in poverty, while alleviating the potential devastating effects of climate change, is one of the most important issues facing our planet.

Washington University is committed to being a global leader in working toward sustainable solutions to this complex problem. Three areas in which we can make significant contributions are operating our campuses efficiently and sustainably, fostering a community of knowledgeable and committed individuals, and teaching and conducting research focused on sustainability.

Campus Operations

Washington University’s Strategic Plan for Sustainable Operations focuses on a number of key areas, including energy and emissions, green building, dining services, transportation, waste reduction, and campus landscaping.

Community

Our community of sustainability-minded students, faculty, and staff has grown by leaps and bounds through programs that engage labs, offices, dorms, and the broader community.

Teaching & Research

Our faculty work at the cutting edge of energy, air quality, sustainable architecture, environmental law, and more. Our course work prepares students to be the next generation of sustainability leaders.