Environmental protection and stewardship are increasing values in the Catholic faith. Many Catholic colleges, therefore, have taken seriously the commitment to environmental sustainability on their campuses through various efforts.
Many Catholic colleges have prioritized folding principles of environmental sustainability into their curriculum. One of the primary ways that this is seen is through the growth and development of their environmental studies programs and majors. Some Catholic colleges have begun allocating resources to ensure their environmental studies programs are top-notch, providing students with the best learning experience and the greatest chance to make an impact following their education.
Additionally, many Catholic colleges are also switching to more energy efficient options, such as LED lighting, energy efficient appliances, or investing in renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or wind turbines. Often, for new construction projects, Catholic colleges adhere to Green Building Standards, to ensure that the design is sustainable and environmentally safe.
Recycling programs are also common at Catholic colleges, to help reduce their waste and encourage students to make more environmentally conscious decisions with the materials they use. Many Catholic colleges have also cut down on the use of plastics for their dining halls, and promote reusable utensils, to-go containers, and water bottles/cups. Partnerships with local food sources/farms is another way that some Catholic colleges ensure that their food sources are sustainable and environmentally safe.
Many Catholic colleges are bike-safe and encourage students to bring bicycles to campus to reduce the amount of driving taking place on campus. Some Catholic colleges may even have bike sharing programs available on campus, with bike racks placed around campus to make bike transit between buildings quicker and more convenient. Occasionally, Catholic colleges may have partnerships with local public transportation systems to provide students with free access to public transportation to encourage ride sharing and reducing the number of cars on the road and fumes in the air.
Catholic colleges may also offer environmental clubs, organizations, or partnerships with local environmental agencies where students can get involved and volunteer as they desire. These can provide students with opportunities to learn more about the environment and how they can make more sustainable choices and contribute to a cleaner environment. Sometimes, Catholic colleges can even offer mission trips with an environmental focus.
Environmental stewardship is valued in the Catholic faith, so many Catholic colleges address environmental sustainability through various efforts and opportunities to the students. These are just a few of the examples of how Catholic colleges may address environmental sustainability. For more specific information about how a Catholic college may address environmental sustainability or what options for student engagement/advocacy for the environment are available, inquire with an admissions officer or check the website of the college(s) you are interested in.