Office of Sustainability
UCCS's View of Sustainability
Sustainability is the pursuit of harmony between economic, social, and environmental systems to support both present and future generations.
It requires thoughtful human decision-making that balances environmental quality with economic well-being and social equity. At its heart, sustainability promotes human health and happiness by ensuring that communities can thrive now without compromising the resources or opportunities available to those who come after us.
2030 Strategic Plan
As a response to the global climate crisis, UCCS has committed to reducing the University's carbon footprint through innovative practices, collaborative partnerships, and strategic investments.
STARS
STARS is designed to provide meaningful comparisons of sustainability over time and across institutions using a common set of measurements, create incentives for continual improvement toward sustainability, and build a stronger sustainability community with varied perspectives.
Sustainability in Academia
At UCCS, sustainability is more than a value; it’s an integral part of the academic experience. Students can deepen their understanding through the Sustainability Minor. This interdisciplinary program complements any major and equips students with the knowledge and skills to tackle real-world environmental, social, and economic challenges.UCCS offers 100+ undergraduate and 30+ graduate courses that focus explicitly on sustainability topics, with an additional 90+ undergraduate and 30+ graduate courses that are sustainability-inclusive, integrating key concepts such as climate change, renewable energy, equity, and responsible resource management.
Sustainability In Action
Sustainability at UCCS is a hands-on, campus-wide commitment. From green buildings, labs, and energy systems to zero-waste initiatives, sustainable food systems, and the UCCS Farm, we integrate sustainability into daily life. With programs like the Green Action Fund, farm-to-table meals, alternative transportation, and classes in mycology and herbalism, UCCS empowers our community to live and lead sustainably.
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