SDG Archives - Office of Sustainability

SDG11 SDG12 SDG14 SDG3 SDG6 STARS

Waste Assessment: Auburn University’s STARS Report

By Hannah Schwartz Reducing waste is a cornerstone of sustainable practice for universities worldwide. By minimizing their ecological footprint, institutions not only contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment but also demonstrate a commitment to responsible stewardship. From conserving natural resources to saving costs and inspiring future generations, waste reduction in…

ContributorApril 15, 2024

SDG11 SDG13 SDG16 SDG17 SDG5 STARS

Coordination & Planning Assessment: Auburn University’s STARS Report

By Randy Martin & Bella Wright A quick look at the top public colleges reveals that in each of their strategic plans, sustainability is taken seriously and given a prominent seat in the future of their institutions. This isn’t for show. Beyond the “good citizen” reasons, it's a smart business…

ContributorApril 13, 2024

SDG STARS

Buildings Assessment: Auburn University’s STARS Report

By Bella Wright Building and innovation are pivotal to advancing society. However, how we build can have significant impacts on our planet and our future. To ensure the health and well-being of our planet, it is important to practice sustainable building of infrastructure and sustainable operations management. The STARS* assessment…

ContributorApril 6, 2024

SDG STARS

Water Assessment: Auburn University’s STARS Report

By Hannah Schwartz Conserving water is crucial for the health of our planet and future generations. With water scarcity continuing to be a pressing global issue, every drop saved makes a difference. By reducing water usage, we protect ecosystems, wildlife, and agricultural lands that rely on this precious resource. With…

ContributorApril 6, 2024

Director's Corner SDG13

Director’s Corner: Earth Day & a “new type of thinking”

“…a new type of thinking is essential if mankind is to survive and move toward higher levels.” Albert Einstein In July of 1969, as he floated alone above the moon while Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walked on the moon, Command Module pilot Michael Collins made this observation of the…

Mike KenslerApril 2, 2024

SDG12 SDG13 SDG3 Sustainability in Action

Go Green for Graduation!

By Bella Wright* Graduation is right around the corner! While we celebrate fellow graduates, let’s keep in mind these tips to help sustain the Loveliest Village on the Plains! Looking to jazz up your graduation photos? Embark on a fun D.I.Y craft to create your own confetti by hole-punching dried…

ContributorFebruary 27, 2024

Director's Corner SDG3

Director’s Corner: What is a Health Promoting University?

“Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” World Health Organization. One of the most important outcomes of the COVID pandemic across the United States and beyond has been the realization that the health and well-being of people…

Mike KenslerJanuary 29, 2024

Professional Development SDG7 SDG9 Sustainability in Action

Sustainable, Functional Nanocomposites for Energy Applications

Functional nanocomposites are composed with different combinations from a large selection of nanomaterials, such as nanocarbons, metal oxides/chalcogenides, carbides, phosphides, polymers, etc., which possess superior mechanical, thermal and electrical properties, leading to broad applications in smart structures, chemical sensors, energy storage and nano-electronic devices. However, the high cost and difficulty…

ContributorJanuary 12, 2024

SDG11 SDG3 SDG8 SDG9 Sustainability in Action

Campus Changemaker: Blake Butcher

By Bella Wright “Find where there’s a need, and go meet that need” ~ EL Spencer This philosophy is what led Blake Butcher to where he is today: Auburn University. Blake began his work in the Auburn community as a personal trainer. Over the span of fifteen years, Blake and his wife…

ContributorDecember 6, 2023

Events Guest Posts SDG17 SDG7 SDG9

Electric Vehicle Showcase – An Electric Atmosphere for An Electric Event

By Patricia Barnes* Auburn University’s Electric Vehicle Showcase had a wonderful turn out on September 22nd, 2023. The event kicked off on a beautiful evening, showcasing 18 different electric vehicles (EVs). From the iconic Tesla to the new Ford F150 Lightning pickup truck, to motorbikes and cycle bikes, a wide…

ContributorDecember 1, 2023