Tuesday, December 15, 2015
Monday, December 7, 2015
Green Tip
Long-term solutions to climate change will require profound changes in how we think about energy. At the same time, there are everyday things we can do to reduce our personal contributions to greenhouse gases. Check out these seven simple guidelines for thinking about carbon emissions. Read more »
UNC-Chapel Hill Signs the American Campuses Act on Climate Pledge
Carolina joined more than 200 colleges and universities across the nation in signing the American Campuses Act on Climate Pledge. Announced by the White House just ahead of the Conference on Climate Change in Paris, the pledge demonstrates the signatories’ commitment to “accelerate the transition to low-carbon energy while enhancing sustainable and resilient practices across campus.” Read the full pledge and list of signatories here.
Carolina specifically pledged to build on existing investments in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and public transportation, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by:
• Transitioning to burning more natural gas instead of coal as an interim fuel strategy at our award winning 32 megawatt combined heat and power plant.
• Investing in more LED lighting and demand responsive HVAC systems. UNC-Chapel Hill has already reduced energy consumption by 29% per square foot since 2003, thus avoiding $260 million in energy costs and associated greenhouse gas emissions.
• Examining opportunities to expand our use of GHG-intensive methane gas to generate electricity. UNC already operates a 1 MW generator that produces electricity from landfill gas.
• Working with the town to implement our recently developed bicycle master plans. UNC already sponsors a fare-free transit system, along with the town, that provides 7 million rides annually.
Campus Community Plants First Edible Campus Garden
The new Edible Campus project promotes a landscape of fresh produce and herbs accessible to all. Over 80 students and community members recently participated in the first planting day, facilitated by Grounds Services employees. Volunteers planted over 300 edible plants around campus, including blueberry bushes, persimmon trees, and artichoke plants.
Read more »
CSU Offers New Greenhouse Gas Management and Accounting Degree
Earlier this year, Colorado State University (CSU) became the first university to achieve a Platinum rating in sustainability from AASHE STARS (Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System). CSU has now announced the new Master of Greenhouse Gas Management & Accounting to provide an interdisciplinary approach to greenhouse gas quantification and mitigation efforts. The program leverages world-leading climate change expertise and enables students from a wide variety of academic backgrounds, such as environmental studies, business, engineering, natural resources, and agriculture, to develop the skills needed for emerging professions in greenhouse gas management and accounting.
Read more »
Apply for Fellowships Through The Carolina Center for Public Service
The Carolina Center for Public Service is currently accepting applications for the Community Engagement Fellowship program, which awards a maximum of five fellowships of up to $2,000 each year for projects that employ innovative, sustainable approaches to complex social needs. Returning, full-time graduate students at UNC-Chapel Hill are eligible to apply. Apply online through the CCPS Application and Nomination Portal by February 8, 2016.
City of Asheville Adopts Framework for Clean Energy
Asheville City Council recently adopted the Community Clean Energy Policy Framework, a blueprint for implementing the city’s 2013 pledge to transition to a clean energy economy. Developed by a diverse group of residents and city staff, elected officials, and business owners over a two-year period, the framework includes next steps and practical strategies for innovative ways to reduce energy needs. Read more »
Service-Learning Course Development Grants
APPLES is soliciting proposals for $5,000 service-learning course development grants from faculty and instructors who teach undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. Up to seven $5,000 grants will be awarded to develop new or modify existing courses that integrate community-based service and promote service-learning pedagogy at UNC-Chapel Hill. For eligibility criteria and application information, click here. Applications are open through February 22, 2016, through the Carolina Center for Public Service Application and Nomination Portal.
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
America Recycles Day
Carolina celebrates America Recycles Day on Wednesday, November 11! Head over to the Great Hall in the Student Union from 11am-2pm for a swap shop, composting demo, Carolina Green pledge drive, update on UNC’s Strategic Sustainability Plan, and more! Learn how Tar Heels reduce, reuse, and recycle on campus and at home. Read more »
University of California (UC) Pledges Carbon Neutrality by 2025
At a recent two-day climate change summit in San Diego, UC President Janet Napolitano vowed to turn the system’s 10 campuses into a living laboratory for sustainability solutions that can be scaled up to state, national, and global levels. The university agreed to buy 80 megawatts of solar power—the largest purchase by any U.S. university— and to also target $1 billion of its investment portfolio toward renewable energy and other climate-change solutions over the next five years. The plan will be presented at next month's Climate Conference in Paris. Read more »
White House Day of Climate Action to Feature Campus Climate Leadership
On November 19, the White House and the State Department will bring together leadership from higher education institutions, including school administrators and student leaders, to encourage a strong agreement at the December Climate Conference in Paris and call for a low-carbon, sustainable future. Students and school leadership will join high-level government officials, celebrities, NGOs, and business leaders in a live-streamed event that facilitates meaningful dialogue on climate change solutions and activates young people. Read more »
Organizations Collaborate to Advance Sustainability in Higher Ed
The National Wildlife Federation (NWF), U.S. Green Building Council, (USGBC), Second Nature, and the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) recently unveiled a shared vision to advance sustainability by working more closely together for the benefit of higher education institutions. Their vision is that:
By 2025, 20 million graduates across all majors will be global sustainability citizens: learning about relationships between natural, physical, economic, social, and cultural systems; understanding how their personal and professional choices impact these systems; and having the agency to create solutions that allow people and the environment to thrive.
Friday, November 6, 2015
Think Outside the Box at Global Entrepreneurship Week
Launched by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) is the world's largest celebration of innovators and job creators who bring ideas to life, drive economic growth, and improve human welfare. UNC will host a weeklong series of events from November 16-21 to reach across all disciplines and the Triangle community. This event is free and open to the public and features workshops, competitions, networking, and more. Read more »
Be a Part of the New Edible Garden Project at UNC
Imagine taking a study break from the library to harvest a snack. The new edible campus project promotes a landscape of fresh produce and herbs accessible to all. Emily Auerbach, Chancellor’s Fellow and recent UNC graduate, is leading the project with Facilities Planning and Design and members of student government. Volunteer to plant the first seeds of the edible garden on Saturday, November 21, at 2pm. Email Emily Auerbach (emily.auerbach@unc.edu) for more information. Read more »
Scholarships for Women Pursuing Transportation-Related Careers
The NC Triangle Chapter of WTS - Advancing Women in Transportation is currently collecting applications for scholarship opportunities for women pursuing transportation-related study. Applicants should have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and focus on transportation-related issues. As an added incentive, the NC Triangle Chapter may award separate scholarship funds to the most qualified students submitting applications. Applications are due by Friday, November 13.
Read more »
New Sustainability Module Available Online
The David E. Shi Center for Sustainability at Furman University announces the launch of a free, open-source, online learning module to explore Sustainability Science and Full Cost Analysis (FCA). FCA is a problem solving method using systems thinking to account for economic, societal, and environmental costs. The module is also designed to be easily incorporated into preexisting course syllabi or as the foundation for new courses.
Read more »
Tuesday, October 6, 2015
UNC-Chapel Hill Ranks 15th Globally for Innovation
Thomson Reuters recently ranked the “Top 100 Innovative Universities.” Stanford University was ranked 1st globally, UNC-Chapel Hill was ranked 15th, and Duke University followed at 17th. Carolina received $792 million in research grants and contracts in fiscal year 2014. Students and faculty have launched more than 150 businesses, creating 38,000 jobs worldwide and generating more than $7 billion in annual revenue. Read more »
Carolina Listed in “75 Best Colleges for Food in America”
Carolina Dining Services (CDS) serves more than 4 million meals a year and is always on the look-out for food from local and organic producers. Nearly 30% of all food served comes from within 150 miles of campus and nearly 20% is ecologically sound, fair, and humane. Local foods purchased from within 250 miles of campus are available daily and include fresh produce, dairy products, and baked goods. CDS was also recently awarded a Gold Medal from the National Association of College and University Food Services (NACUFS) for outstanding performance in sustainability education and Grand Prize for Excellence in Sustainability for its inaugural “Feeding the 5,000” event. Other CDS sustainability initiatives include a reusable container program, tray-free dining, fryer oil recycling, and weekly food donations to food banks.
Read more »
Keep your room naturally clean with a sustainable, non-toxic, all-purpose cleaner. Instead of using chemical-based products, make a simple mixture of vinegar, baking soda, and water. Add essential oils for a mild, clean fragrance. Read more »
The Center for Design Innovation Expands
The Center for Design Innovation (CDI), a multi-campus research center within the University of North Carolina system, catalyzes economic transformation through design-focused activity and digital technologies. A recent move to a new building in the Innovation Quarter in Winston-Salem comes with expanded labs, classrooms, and meeting rooms for entrepreneurs, inventors, and designers. “The Center for Design Innovation blends the arts, technology, and science of creativity to inspire entrepreneurial enterprise and the next generation of the 21st Century workforce,” says Pamela L. Jennings, CDI’s executive director.
Read more »
New Program Promotes Pollinator Protection on College Campuses
Bee City USA, based in Asheville, NC, recently announced a new national program, Bee Campus USA, to protect pollinators and increase awareness about their benefits. Southern Oregon University has been named the first Bee Campus USA. Bee City USA director, Phyllis Stiles says, "Hard-working pollinators are responsible for about every third bite we eat, and 85 percent of the world’s flowering plant species need a pollinator’s help in order to reproduce. Recognizing the serious threats faced by the thousands of species of bees, butterflies, bats, beetles, and hummingbirds that make our planet bloom and fruit, we feel very fortunate to have found such an outstanding partner in pollinator protection.” Carrboro, NC, is the third city to be recognized as a Bee City.
Read more »
Biennial UNC Social Innovation Challenge
Every two years, UNC's Social Innovation Initiative holds a pan-university challenge open to all students, faculty, and staff interested in launching social ventures. Ten ventures are selected for a two-year residency at CUBE, UNC’s social innovation incubator, and can receive up to $5,000 in seed funding. There are eight different tracks: environment, health, education, socio-economic development, technology, sports, arts, and food. A kickoff informational event will be held on Wednesday, October 7 from 6-7:30pm in the Campus Y, and will include an opportunity to meet this years mentors-in residence and receive feedback on your idea. Applications for the Challenge are due by December 27, 2015.
Read more »
Free Online Course in Sustainable Business
UNC and the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore (IIMB), a top business school in India, are co-recipients of a 3-year grant to advance sustainability education in the US and India. As part of the collaboration, Professor PD Jose is offering a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) “Strategy and the Sustainable Enterprise,” which includes short videos about social entrepreneurship from UNC Professor Carol Hee’s BUSI 507 class. “Strategy and the Sustainable Enterprise” is packed with insightful lectures, case studies, interviews, and peer-group discussions to provide a competitive advantage. The free online course began September 29 but there is an option for late enrollment.
Read more »
Students for Zero Waste Conference
The Post-Landfill Action Network (PLAN) is hosting an upcoming conference for sustainability-minded students implementing waste reduction programs on their college and university campuses across the country. The Students for Zero Waste Conference will be held October 9-10 at the University of New Hampshire. Travel scholarships are available. Read more »
Apply Now to Work with Green Corps
Recent graduates receive hands-on experience while working to solve urgent environmental problems with Green Corps' year-long paid program. Green Corps connects graduates with environmental and progressive groups to help build their organizations, create social change, and protect the environment. The early application closes on October 11th.
Read more »
Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Consider trying out a Meatless Monday. Eating less meat – even omitting it from one meal per week – can have a positive impact on your health and the environment. When you do choose to buy meat, look for labels that specify local, organic, and humanely raised.
Read more »
New Rankings Showcase UNC's Commitment to Sustainability
Colleges and universities across the state are making sustainability a top priority. In the Sierra Club’s “Cool Schools” rankings, five NC institutions are among the top 65 greenest colleges and universities nationally. Carolina leads the way at No. 15 out of over 150 participating colleges, followed by Appalachian State at No. 23, Duke at No. 27, Warren Wilson College at No. 54, and UNC Greensboro at No. 63. UNC-Chapel Hill and Appalachian State University also both hold a gold rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) Sustainability Tracking, Assessment, and Rating System (STARS). UNC-Chapel Hill’s ranking recognizes the long-term success of its many sustainability initiatives. Carolina has reduced water use by 60% per square foot since 2000 and energy use by 31% per square foot since 2003.
Read more »
Share Your Pilot Project Ideas for Campus Sustainability
Gathering input to inform the University’s new Strategic Sustainability Plan began in Spring 2015. Throughout the summer, six working groups identified UNC’s sustainability goals and priorities. An overview of their suggestions is available here. To learn more, please come out to Polk Place from 11:30am-2:30pm on Tuesday, September 15. Rain location is the Carolina Union Aquarium Lounge. We’re also hosting a Carolina Green Pledge Drive for reusable bags. Take the pledge in advance at Carolinagreen.unc.edu to grab your bag and avoid the line. Join via facebook and invite your friends.
What Pilot Projects would you like to see emerge from the plan? Please submit your ideas here.
Carolina Dining Services Wins Grand Prize for Excellence in Sustainability
Carolina Dining Services earned a Gold Medal from the National Association of College and University Food Services (NACUFS) for outstanding performance in sustainability outreach and education. In addition, CDS won the overall Grand Prize for Excellence in Sustainability for its Feeding the 5,000 event that demonstrated how frequently unused food products can feed thousands of hungry people. (The second annual, free-of-charge Feeding the 5,000 event will occur Tuesday, September 29, from 11-2 in the Pit and Top of Lenoir.) The NACUFS Sustainability Awards recognize and honor institutions that have demonstrated outstanding leadership in environmental sustainability. Carolina Dining Services offers sustainable menu items daily, including, but not limited to, “Meat ‘Less' Mondays,” grass-fed beef, organic yogurt, humane chicken and cage-free eggs, and healthy, delicious and nutritious vegan and vegetarian offerings.
Read more »
Learn to Lead Staff Sustainability Efforts
“Making the Workplace More Sustainable,” an interactive staff sustainability workshop, helps participants identify, measure and promote sustainable change opportunities in their work areas. Participants learn about sustainability goals and initiatives at UNC, become “green events” certified, and learn how to conduct a Workplace Sustainability Assessment. The upcoming, two-day training will be held Tuesday, September 29, and Thursday, October 1, from 8:30 am - 12:30 pm, at the Administrative Office Building on Airport Drive. Register soon through Connect Carolina for “Workplace Sustainability 1,” space is limited. Read more »
UNC System Avoids Over $900 Million in Utility Costs
More than 425 clean energy advocates, including students, faculty, campus operations leaders, and university executives attended the 2015 Appalachian Energy Summit this past summer in Boone, North Carolina. The fourth annual summit recognized the efforts of the UNC System to cumulatively avoid over $749 million in energy costs and over $158 million in water costs since 2003. The University of North Carolina system aims to avoid $2 billion in utility costs by 2025.
Read more »
Carolina Installs New Solar Features
The FPG Student Union is now outfitted with a 19.8 kw solar array, donated by Strata Solar, North Carolina’s largest utility scale solar installer. Funding to install the panels was provided by the Renewable Energy Special Projects Committee (RESPC), which allocates the $4 per student per semester green energy fee. You can see the panels from the top floors of Davis Library. A monitor will soon be installed in the Student Union to track the output of the photovoltaic panels.
Also new to campus are Powersol solar umbrellas installed near the Pit and at other spots around campus, including several residence halls. Affixed atop the umbrellas, solar panels power a charging station that offers three USB ports at each table. Take a seat and catch a quick charge on your electronic device. This project was also funded by the RESPC, as well as Carolina Dining Services and Student Stores. Read more »
BigBelly solar trash compactors were recently installed in high-traffic areas on campus including around the Pit, on Polk Place, and at the Medical School. These solar-powered, compacting trash cans and recycling bins increase the efficiency of trash collection. Each BigBelly station sends Grounds Services an email to let them know when the bins are full. Read more »
City of Raleigh Recognized for National Sustainability Excellence
Raleigh is the first community in North Carolina to achieve a 4-STAR Community Rating for national excellence in sustainability. “The City of Raleigh has a long commitment to sustainability with a focus not only on environmental stewardship but also on economic strength and social equity,” said Mayor McFarlane. “The 4-STAR Community Rating for national excellence is a culmination of the hard work and innovative ideas of staff and the community in not only promoting sustainable ideas but recognizing sustainable programs as a cornerstone of Raleigh’s future.” STAR is a sustainability rating system for cities, towns, and counties. Nearly 100 communities are actively using the STAR Community Rating System, with more than 60 engaged in the certification process.
Read more »
Clean Energy Forum
North Carolina policy-makers have been considering significant changes to the state’s clean energy policies during the 2015 legislative session. The Clean Energy Forum intends to put these discussions into context by providing an update on clean energy policies, outlining impacts of solar projects, and examining industry trends. Speakers at the Forum will include leading industry representatives, solar developers, state agency officials, and university experts. The forum will be held Friday, September 25, from 1-4pm at the NC Botanical Garden in Chapel Hill. Attendance is free, but registration is required. Please RSVP to swall@email.unc.edu and include Clean Energy Forum in the subject line. The event is sponsored by the UNC Institute for the Environment, the NCSU Institute for Emerging Issues, and the NC Clean Energy Technology Center.
Saving Pollinators at the NC Botanical Garden
Flowering plants, food, and our natural habitat rely on pollinators. The Saving Our Pollinators exhibition features 29 events, including workshops, exhibits, talks, and tours that highlight the acute plight of pollinators, including bees, birds, bats, and butterflies. Discover the importance of our pollinators as the NC Botanical Garden illustrates challenges and offers solutions to stabilize and secure their future. Events will take place from now until October 3rd.
Read more »
UNC Students Open a Waterless Car Wash
Students from UNC-Chapel Hill have started a business selling waterless car washes. "It saves 45 gallons or more per car wash, and most people don't realize how much water is wasted at a car wash," says Austin Helms, a student at the UNC Kenan Flagler Business School. Waterless Buddys will be opening to the public at University Place in Chapel Hill this fall. In the meantime, you can request an onsite car wash by going to their website.
Read more »
Local Sustainable Coffee Business Expands
For twenty years, Counter Culture Coffee of Durham has implemented practices of direct and fair trade with farmers, while selling wholesale to restaurants and specialty stores across the Triangle. The company, co-founded by Brett Smith, a graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill’s Kenan-Flagler business school, chose to build and leverage relationships with farmers to implement sustainable and transparent practices that yield a better tasting bean. Counter Culture Coffee recently announced it will expand to the west coast.
Read more »
Friday, May 8, 2015
Green Tip
Carolina Serves “Food for All” as Next Campus Theme
All areas of campus will come together at a common table to examine food and food studies as the 2015-2017 university-wide academic theme. “Food for All: Local and Global Perspectives” will examine wide-ranging topics including food cultures and nutrition, food security, world hunger, agricultural economics, resource management, sustainable development, climate change and international trade. “‘Food for All’ is the perfect successor to the ‘Water in Our World’ theme,” said Chancellor Carol L. Folt. “With alliances like UNC’s College of Arts and Sciences, the Global Research Institute and the UNC Nutrition Research Institute, Carolina can leverage its world-class resources to guide our focus on food over the next two years. Through this initiative, we can bring our community together to address this global issue that plays a critical role across many facets of our society.”
A multidisciplinary committee including faculty, staff, students, and community partners will motivate conversation and research about food-focused scholarship and public engagement. The committee will also encourage and support food-related activities, such as new courses, digital humanities projects, film and documentary work, speaker series, scholar and artist-in-residence programs, performing arts events and local and regional service projects. The committee will be led by co-chairs Alice Ammerman and Marcie Cohen Ferris, both UNC-Chapel Hill faculty members with diverse experience and deep-rooted interest in food issues and food studies.
Read more »
Don’t Ditch It — Donate It During Student Move-Out
As you prepare to move out of your residence hall or apartment, you may discover items you don’t want or need to take with you. Consider donating used items to local non-profits. The Department of Housing and Residential Education (DHRE), Office of Waste Reduction and Recycling (OWRR), and Triangle Residential Options for Substance Abusers (TROSA) are partnering to collect usable items from donation stations in campus residential communities. TROSA will use the donations within their furnished residences and will sell surplus items to benefit their non-profit comprehensive treatment and work training programs. Check out the “zero-waste” move-out guide for more information.
Off-campus students can recycle many items at the Orange County Solid Waste Recycling Center on Eubanks Road, or contact Orange County Solid Waste Management to set up a collection area in your community. And for a list of organizations that accept household donations, click here. Donations support local non-profits, reduce your carbon footprint, strengthen the reuse economy, and preserve resources.
Learn more about local resources for recycling and waste reduction »
Learn to Lead Staff Sustainability Efforts
“Making the Workplace More Sustainable,” an interactive staff sustainability workshop, helps participants identify, measure, and promote sustainable change opportunities in their work areas. Participants learn about sustainability goals and initiatives at UNC, become “green events” certified, and learn how to conduct a Workplace Sustainability Assessment. The upcoming, two-day training will be held Tuesday, May 19, and Thursday, May 21, from 8:30AM – 12:30PM, at the Administrative Office Building on Airport Drive. Register soon through Connect Carolina for “Workplace Sustainability 1,” space is limited.
Read more »
Carolina Recognized as "Green College" by Princeton Review
"The Princeton Review’s Guide to 322 Green Colleges: 2015 Edition" recognizes Carolina as a national leader in campus sustainability. The free downloadable guide, published in partnership with the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), profiles campus commitments to sustainability based on academic offerings, career preparation, policies, initiatives, and activities. UNC-Chapel Hill (#31) and Warren Wilson College (#17) are the only North Carolina schools to make the top 50. Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Oregon ranked 1st. Read more »
New “Climate Stories” Multimedia Site from the Institute for the Environment
Climate Stories NC, a new multimedia storytelling project, documents stories from North Carolinians about the ways in which their property, business, favorite activities, or way of life is affected by climate change. The project raises awareness about the changing climate. Read more »
Carolina Supports the Northside Neighborhood Initiative
Carolina is making a $3 million, 10-year, no-interest loan to help stabilize the Northside neighborhood. Located north of Rosemary and west of Columbia streets, Northside has historically been the largest African-American community in Chapel Hill. The initiative is a partnership between the University, the town and two nonprofits, Self-Help and the Jackson Center. Self-Help, a Durham-based community developer, will manage the $3 million loan to achieve shared goals of helping longtime residents stay in their homes, attracting new residents from diverse backgrounds, and increasing the availability of housing and financing options for neighborhood properties. Read more »
Colorado State University Earns First-Ever STARS Platinum Rating
Colorado State University is the first campus to achieve platinum status, the highest possible achievement, under the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education’s (AASHE) Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS). “This STARS rating reaffirms that CSU is a national leader in building a sustainable, environmentally responsible campus community,” said President Tony Frank. Carolina submitted its second STARS report in summer 2014 and received a gold rating.
Read more »
Apply to Attend the Appalachian Energy Summit, July 13-15
The 2015 Appalachian Energy Summit (AES) is the fourth annual gathering for the University of North Carolina Energy Leadership Challenge. Campus leaders from North Carolina’s 17 public institutions, six private university partners, and select leaders from other states will gather at Appalachian State. North Carolina students from all disciplines and majors are encouraged to apply. Read more »
Carolina in The News
Check out the recent media mentions of sustainability-related programs, practices, and people at UNC:
The Characteristics of a Comprehensive Wellness Program
There are many health and business benefits to a comprehensive corporate wellness program. Only 7% of companies surveyed in a nationally representative study offer what Laura Linnan, a professor of public health at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill and head of the CDC-funded Workplace Health Research Network, calls a “comprehensive program.” Linnan, who is developing a new national survey of the corporate wellness landscape, identifies five practices that define a wellness program: programs are practical and accessible, the work environment is health-conscious, wellness is integrated into the company’s structure, wellness is linked to existing support programs, and health screenings and education are offered. “You have to have an understanding of what your work force’s health needs are,” said Linnan. Read more »
Thanks to UNC News Services for finding these great stories! You can find more UNC media coverage and stories online at uncnews.unc.edu.
Wednesday, May 6, 2015
Tuesday, March 17, 2015
Majora Carter Announced as Earth Day Keynote Speaker
Majora Carter, urban revitalization strategist and social-enterprise pioneer, will deliver the Campus Earth Week Keynote Address on Wednesday, April 15, at 6pm, in Carroll Hall, room 111. Carter has redefined the field of environmental equality. She started in the South Bronx at the turn of the century and is now a leader in the local economic development movement across the United States. She is a visionary voice in city planning who views urban renewal through an environmental lens and with a focus on historically underserved and minority populations. Carter's confidence, energy and intensely emotional delivery make her talks themselves a force of nature. This event is free and open to the public. Registration is required. Read more »
Make Your Voice Heard: Provide Input to UNC’s Strategic Sustainability Plan
To maintain its role as a national and international leader in sustainability, UNC-Chapel Hill is developing a Strategic Sustainability Plan to build upon the University’s many successful initiatives to date. The goal is to create a cohesive vision for embedding sustainability into the full range of campus activities, including teaching, research, operations, and engagement. The campus community is invited to participate in Town Hall meetings to provide input on current sustainability initiatives and aspirations for the future. Mark your calendar for an opportunity to participate:
- Tuesday, March 31: Campus Sustainability Town Hall, 12:30-2:00pm @ Toy Lounge, Dey Hall
- Tuesday, March 31: Student Sustainability Town Hall, 6:00-7:30pm @ Student Union, Room 3411
- Wednesday, April 1: Staff Town Hall, 9:30-11:00am @ Toy Lounge, Dey Hall
- Wednesday, April 1: Faculty Town Hall, 12:30-2:00pm @ Toy Lounge, Dey Hall
- Town Halls for a mix of students, faculty, and staff interested in specific themes will be held on Tuesday, April 21, from 12:30-2:00 and 3:30-5:00 at a location to be determined and Wednesday, April 22, Earth Day, from 2:30-4:00pm @ Student Union, Room 3206A/B.
- An open Earth Day Town Hall for all members of the campus community will be held on Wednesday, April 22, from 11:30am-1:00pm @ Student Union, Room 3206A/B.
Volunteer opportunities with our world-class consultants are available for students. Two to three students are needed to help with:
- Documentation of Sustainability Advisory Committee meeting, on March 18, 3:30-4:30pm in Graham Memorial 035. Photograph the Sustainability Advisory Committee working sessions and outcomes for inclusion in future Sustainability Strategic Plan-related updates and publications.
- Participate with consultant team conducting on-campus “intercept interviews,” March 18-19 Shadow consultant team during initial “intercept interviews” gathering student opinion on sustainability at UNC, and be trained to conduct additional interviews independently between 3/19 and 3/31.
Interested students should contact Amelia Aboff at amelia.aboff@burohappold.com or via text at 917-696-8677. Additional opportunities for involvement will be available in the coming months – for more information as these come up, please contact Cindy Shea at the UNC Sustainability Office at cpshea@email.unc.edu.
To find out the latest on the Strategic Sustainability Plan and upcoming events, read more »
To find out the latest on the Strategic Sustainability Plan and upcoming events, read more »
What’s the Big Idea: Food for Thought
The UNC Friday Center presents four lectures on food history, culture, sustainability, and regulation as part of the next What’s the Big Idea? series. UNC-Chapel Hill researchers Marcie Cohen Ferris, Alice Ammerman, and Barry M. Popkin will present research findings, and a special session with UNC-Chapel Hill Chancellor Carol Folt will conclude the series with a preview of the new pan-campus theme, “Feeding a Hungry World.” The talks run from April 9-30, from 7-8:30pm at the Friday Center. Each session is $10 or attend the entire series for $30. Read more »
Learn to Lead Staff Sustainability Efforts
“Making the Workplace More Sustainable,” an interactive staff sustainability workshop, helps participants identify, measure and promote sustainable change opportunities in their work areas. Participants learn about sustainability goals and initiatives at UNC, become “green events” certified, and learn how to conduct a Workplace Sustainability Assessment. The upcoming, two-day training will be held Tuesday, May 19, and Thursday, May 21, from 8:30AM – 12:30PM, at the Administrative Office Building on Airport Drive. Register soon through Connect Carolina for “Workplace Sustainability 1,” space is limited. Read more »
Sustainable Speaker Series at CCCC Pittsboro Campus
Students for Sustainability at the CCCC Pittsboro Campus work on environmental conservation and educational events. Learn about the economic and ecological benefits of the Haw River at “The Haw River is Our Home,” on Wednesday at 7 pm, on the Chatham County Campus in Pittsboro. On March 25, learn how NC Waste Awareness and Reduction educates and engages the public on clean energy at “Building People Power for Climate and Energy Justice,” also at 7pm, at the Chatham Community Library Mary Hayes Holmes Conference Room. Read more »
Bill Introduced to Legalize Third-Party Electricity Sales in North Carolina
North Carolina is one of only 5 states that prohibits third-party sales of electricity. Rep. John Szoka, R-Cumberland, has introduced a bill that would allow renewable-energy developers to sell power directly to customers in North Carolina, bypassing the state's utilities. The “Energy Freedom Act” could enhance competition and consumer choice, increase development of renewable energy projects, and make the state an even more attractive place to work and live by contributing to a clean and healthy environment. The bill would take effect July 1. Read more »
North Carolina Wins 9 Good Food Awards
The Good Food Awards honors companies that create delicious and sustainable local food economies. Out of 1,462 entries, 14 different North Carolina products made it into the final round and nine were awarded the top honor. Picklers, cheese-makers, chocolatiers, distillers, brewers, butchers, coffee roasters and farmers across the state work together to make some of the highest quality food products in the nation.
Read more »
I-40 Pedestrian Bridge Good for Health and Business
Recent completion of the I-40 bike and pedestrian bridge joined the northern and southern sections of the American Tobacco Trail. Cyclists can now travel the full 21 miles from downtown Durham to Apex without having to share the road with cars. NC State’s Institute for Transportation Research and Education recently found that the trail’s completion contributed to a 133% increase in use. Many people use the trail to get to restaurants, grocery, and retail stores. Though the trail is primarily used for recreation and fitness, it could become an important transportation corridor as Durham grows. Read more »
Trial Treatment of Invasive Plant Proposed in Hillsborough
Hydrilla, an invasive aquatic plant that originally came to the US from Asia as an aquarium accessory, has been an issue for Orange County’s watershed. Hydrilla has several ramifications for ecosystems, including a disease that can infect water fowl. It also out-competes native vegetation, which endangers the habitats of many organisms and water quality. A statewide task force to combat Hydrilla found a chemical solution, which will be tested in a two-year trial with close monitoring before applying it to the rest of the watershed. The N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources is reviewing an environmental assessment for toxicity and the effects on humans, plants, and animals.
Read more »
The Guardian Launches Climate Change Series
In an effort to find a new narrative for climate change, the UK-based Guardian newspaper has launched a series of podcasts, images, films, and reporting to bring attention to climate change issues and engage and inform the public. The Guardian’s editor-in-chief, Alan Rusbridger, explains how climate change is the most important story in the world and challenges journalists to engage readers in a new way. Read more »
Register Now for Environmental LCA Workshop
Environmental life cycle analysis (LCA) is used in industry and commerce for gauging the environmental impact of a service or product. A hands-on workshop at NC State will provide attendees with an overview of LCA, and students will learn methodologies and commercial software. The workshop will be held from August 3-7, and registration is $1900. Space is limited. Read more »
Carolina in the News
Check out the recent media mentions of sustainability-related programs, practices, and people at UNC:
Startup Led by UNC Grad Brings Solar Services to Rooftops
A California startup co-founded by UNC-Chapel Hill graduate Alec Guettel is expanding to North Carolina. Sungevity is launching solar services for residential homeowners in partnership with Lowe's. The company offers solar equipment and related services, including proprietary estimating technology. Sungevity is a venture capital-backed startup and raised $125 million from investors in 2013. Read more »
New Discovery Could Change Sea Level Rise Predictions
Dr. Mike Willis of the Department of Geological Sciences at UNC-Chapel Hill noticed something surprising while combing through satellite and GPS data: a hole twice the size of Central Park in a small Greenland ice cap. Willis and his colleagues determined that meltwater had been collecting in a subglacial lake until the whole thing blew out, sending the water out to sea and causing the ice above it to slump downward. The discovery suggests that water does not flow quickly between ice and rock and out to sea. Instead, it pauses on its rush to the ocean and heats the ice. This process could be important in understanding how Greenland will respond to climate change and contribute to the already 8 inches of global sea level rise since 1900. Greenland holds enough ice to raise global sea levels by 24 feet and its glaciers melt could affect projections of future sea level rise. Read more »
Study Suggests that Dense Development Would Harm Air in NC’s Triangle
New research from UNC-Chapel Hill challenges the idea that dense urban development is better for the health of residents. The study, published in the December issue of Risk Analysis, found that denser development would slightly reduce the Triangle’s air pollution on a regional level, but at a more local level, it would expose a greater number of citizens to “hotspots” of particulate matter, a harmful pollutant. “Our suggestion is not necessarily that density is wrong,” said Daniel Rodriguez, a professor at UNC’s department of city and regional planning and a coauthor of the study, “but that in itself, in isolation, it’s probably not going to be beneficial for people.” Theodore Mansfield, the study’s lead author and a Ph.D. student at UNC, discussed the costs and benefits of city living. “There are a lot of great things that cities do,” he said. “But at the same time, the concentration of all those activities in a small space can have some negative health impacts.” Read more »
Lawsuits Challenge Agricultural Pollution
Federal lawsuits, supported by studies that link hog farming with air and water pollution, are challenging the livestock industry to change its ways. "Pork is cheap and cheap to produce in large factories because they don't pay for cleaning up water supply, and they don't pay for the asthma neighbors get. They don't pay for polluting downstream water that used to be potable, and they don't pay for the loss of property values," said Steve Wing, a UNC-Chapel Hill epidemiologist. In North Carolina, 10 million hogs produce as much fecal waste in a day as 100 million people, and Duplin County is the nation's top county for hog production.
Read more »
Thanks to UNC News Services for finding these great stories! You can find more UNC media coverage and stories online at uncnews.unc.edu.
Green Tip
Spring is just around the corner! Consider starting it green. Mix your own natural cleaning products from water, vinegar, tea tree oil, and lavender oil. Plant the garden you’ve always wanted. Or start a compost bin for organic waste. Learn how at the Composting Workshop at the Carolina Campus Community Garden on March 18 (more details in the news section).
Read more green tips »
Sustainability Office Internships for Summer 2015
The Sustainability Office at UNC-Chapel Hill works with the campus community to catalyze the development and implementation of sustainable policies, practices, curricula, and behaviors. Interns will become familiar with the many sustainability practices and policies at UNC while receiving hands-on experience developing communication tools, supporting initiatives, and assessing sustainable practices. There are four internship positions available and all require an in-person interview. Apply by Monday, March 30. Read more »
Conserve Water and Energy on Campus, Win a Solar Umbrella
Throughout March, UNC’s residential communities will compete in a Utility War to reduce energy and water consumption. The community to reduce the most will win a solar umbrella charging station that can be used to charge personal electronics while sitting outside. The contest is sponsored by the Renewable Energy Special Projects Committee and the Residence Hall Association. Read more »
Composting Workshop, Wednesday, March 18
A free composting workshop will be held on Wednesday, March 18th from 3 - 4:30pm at the Carolina Campus Community Garden. Muriel Williman, Orange County waste management educator, will cover composting basics and how to start vermicomposting with worms. The class will be held rain or shine and parking is available across from the garden. Read more »
Innovation Lab Offers Design Thinking Workshop, Thursday, March 19
ABAN, Ten Thousand Villages, and Tech Talent South will share insight and methodologies for business solutions on Thursday, March 19, from 6-8pm, at the 1789 Venture Lab on Franklin Street. The hands-on, interactive event is open to all.
Monday, February 9, 2015
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 9, 2015
CCCC will host
Sustainable Speaker Series
PITTSBORO — The
Central Carolina Community College Sustainable Speaker Series this spring
includes the programs “Building People Power for Climate and Energy Justice”
and “The Haw River Is Our Home.” In addition, there will be a screening of the
movie, “Growing Cities.”
CCCC’s Students for
Sustainability sponsors the series, which is free and open to the public.
Laura Lauffer,
Sustainability Coordinator and Lead Instructor for CCCC’s Sustainable
Technologies programs, says the Students for Sustainability are engaged in what
is happening in the community — sustainability beyond the classroom.
“These topics are
important to them. It is great that we have so many talented speakers who can
help increase awareness about the challenges and opportunities in energy and
the environment and our agricultural resources,” said Lauffer.
“Building People
Power for Climate and Energy Justice” will be presented at 7 p.m. Feb.
18 at the Chatham Community Library Mary Hayes Holmes Conference Room on
the CCCC Chatham County Campus in Pittsboro. NC Waste Awareness and Reduction
(NC WARN) will present the program.
“The Haw River is Our
Home” will be presented at 7 p.m. March 18 on the Chatham County
Campus in Pittsboro. Join Joe Jacobs of the Haw River Canoe and Kayak Company
and Elaine Chiosso of the Haw River Assembly as they share the story of one of
Chatham County’s beauties.
A film screening of
“Growing Cities” will be presented at 7 p.m. April 15 on the Chatham
County Campus in Pittsboro. This documentary film examines the role of urban
farming in America. After the film, join a discussion with CCCC faculty and
students to learn about growing your own food in any space available.
Calvin Megginson is
one of the students who organized the event. “I believe that the Sustainable Speaker
Series is important because it provides an avenue for the community to come and
be involved and educated in sustainability,” he said. “This type of two-way
communication is vital for creating a feedback loop so that we stay on the
cutting edge of technology and industry.”
“These speakers are
looking at the frontiers of these major changes — they inform and they
inspire,” said student Danielle DuClos. “There is so much we can do together.
An informed and inspired community is a great starting point for that. Students
for Sustainability and the Sustainable Speakers Series can be a bridge to
sharing this knowledge with the larger community and connecting our motivation
so we can unite forces to bring great and much needed transformation locally
and globally.”
DuClos added, “If we
don't change the way we relate to the world, the world won't end — it will keep
changing. What we are talking about with sustainability isn't saving the planet
— it's keeping it habitable for us and for other living creatures.”
For those who would
like dinner before the Sustainable Speaker Series programs, the college’s
Natural Chef Café will be open from 6 to 7 p.m. on the Chatham County
Campus. All dinners are $14. The Natural Chef Café features sustainable meals
prepared by students enrolled in the CCCC Culinary Arts Continuing Education
and Curriculum programs. Reservations are encouraged. For reservations, please
call 919-545-8076.
CCCC offers a variety
of spring sustainable program classes, as well as the Sustainable Living
Series. The Series prepares members of the community to live a resource
efficient lifestyle. Local experts will share their skills in green building,
smart home design, and developing a vibrant local economy.
For more information
on CCCC's sustainability programs, visit www.cccc.edu, call Laura Lauffer at 919-545-8032 or
email llauffer@cccc.edu.
--
Laura Lauffer, LEED GA
Sustainability Coordinator & Lead Instructor
Sustainable Technologies Program
Central Carolina Community College
Pittsboro, NC 27312
919 545 8032
Thursday, January 29, 2015
Green Tip
It’s not too late to add a new year’s resolution. Why not make it a green one? Resolve to develop more environmentally-friendly habits: walk or bicycle instead of taking the car to do at least one errand per week; write or call decision makers to let them know how you feel about environmental, social, and economic issues; use biodegradable laundry soap; or compost.
Read more green tips to stay sustainable throughout the year »
Carolina in the News
Check out the recent media mentions of sustainability-related programs, practices, and people at UNC:
UNC Dining Halls Consider Local, Sustainable Suppliers
An ongoing movement toward offering more local, sustainable food options is a priority for Carolina Dining Services (CDS) as it tries to meet the standards of the Real Food Challenge. The challenge encourages universities to serve less food from industrial farms. It was brought to UNC by Fair, Local, Organic Food (FLO), a UNC student organization asking that CDS be more sustainable in its food purchases. “I think CDS continues to show their interest in expanding the amount of real food served,” said FLO member Alexandria Huber.
Read more »
Residential Solar Panels Still a Great Investment
Jordan Kern, post-doctoral researcher at the Institute for the Environment writes about residential solar projects as a viable financial investment opportunity. Currently, for an average household in the Duke Energy Carolinas service area, investing in a 4-kilowatt solar panel system over 25 years can be just as good as investing in a savings bond earning 8.9 percent interest. Duke Energy’s proposed net metering reduction rate would reduce this equivalent interest rate by only about 0.1 percent. A much greater threat to the financial viability of the residential solar market in North Carolina is the expiration of state and federal Investment Tax Credits (ITCs), which collectively allow homeowners to recoup more than 50 percent of the solar panels’ original cost. The state ITC is set to expire at the end of 2015, and the federal ITC is slated to expire at the end of 2016. Expiration of either tax credit, assuming the current costs of solar power stay the same, would make purchasing solar panels a poor financial investment for most homeowners in North Carolina.
Read more »
Thanks to UNC News Services for finding these stories! You can find more UNC media coverage and stories online at uncnews.unc.edu.
Carolina Ranks 12th in the World for Sustainability
The Universitas Indonesia’s annual GreenMetric report rates campus sustainability programs worldwide. Carolina ranked 12th in the world and fifth in the United States out of 360 universities. Campuses were evaluated in six categories: setting and infrastructure; energy and climate change; waste management; water usage; transportation; and education. The University of Nottingham in the United Kingdom ranked first, and four other U.S. universities — University of California Davis, University of Connecticut, University of California Berkeley, and Northeastern — made the top ten list. To see complete rankings and specific scores, Read More »
UNC Kenan-Flagler Prepares Students for the Business of Energy
A new MBA Energy Concentration and Energy Center at the Kenan-Flagler Business School will prepare graduates to assume energy-related leadership roles that power the global economy. In the full-time MBA Energy Concentration, students will explore every aspect of the energy value chain, including oil, gas, and renewables. Courses will focus on day-to-day business and economic challenges in the energy industry. The new Energy Center will examine energy public policy, conduct research, and support students in education and career opportunities. It will also be a forum for finding answers to critical energy questions. Read more »
Sign up for EcoReps Training
EcoReps are Carolina’s trained peer-to-peer sustainability outreach team. Learn about campus sustainability initiatives that advance ecological integrity, economic prosperity, and societal well being. Then learn the skills needed to effectively engage other students. The only full day spring semester training will occur Saturday, January 31, from 10AM – 3PM in Dey Hall, room 208, and counts as a Public Service Scholars Skills Training. Register now »
Learn to Lead Staff Sustainability Efforts
“Making the Workplace More Sustainable,” an interactive staff sustainability workshop, helps participants identify, measure and promote sustainable change opportunities in their work areas. Participants learn about sustainability goals and initiatives at UNC, become “green events” certified, and learn how to conduct a Workplace Sustainability Assessment. The upcoming, two-day training will be held Tuesday, February 24, and Thursday, February 26, from 8:30AM – 12:30PM, at the Administrative Office Building on Airport Drive. Register soon through Connect Carolina for “Workplace Sustainability 1”, space is limited.
Read more »
UNC-Chapel Hill Hosts Student Research Symposium
The UNC Curriculum for the Environment and Ecology (CEE) invites all students interested in ecology and the environment to present their research work at the annual CEE Student Research Symposium. This inter-institutional event brings together students and faculty from across the Triangle. The Symposium will be held on Saturday, February 21, from 9AM – 2PM at the North Carolina Botanical Garden. Registration is free and open until Friday, January 30. Register now »
Sustainability Investments and the UNC Endowment
In fall 2014, the UNC Board of Trustees unanimously passed a resolution requesting “that UNC Management Company research targeted investments for the University’s endowment assets that advance environmentally friendly clean energy strategies consistent with applicable asset allocation and investment objective policies.” Join Jon King, President and CEO of UNC Management Company, and Matt Fajack, Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, on Monday, February 23, from 2 – 3:30PM, in Toy Lounge of Dey Hall, to learn about the sustainability strategies employed and investments made by the managers of UNC’s $2.1 billion endowment. Read more »
Help Carolina Win the Student Commute Challenge
Help UNC beat Duke, NC State, and Wake Tech by tracking your commutes! The Student Commute Challenge is a friendly student competition to see who can bus, bike, walk or carpool the most by February 20. Each commute earns points, and weekly challenges earn extra points. Track trips for great prizes, including gift cards to UNC Student Stores or an iPad Mini. Sign up and start logging your commutes today!
Note: The website is having trouble working with UNC email addresses. We recommend signing up for the challenge with a non-UNC email address, like Gmail or Yahoo!
Join Carolina’s Environmental Honors Fraternity
Interested in the environment? Love being outdoors and volunteering? Join Epsilon Eta (Ep Eta), the nation's first environmental honors fraternity. Ep Eta is a co-ed fraternity that recognizes outstanding students, creates a social network of friends and support, and offers environmental service and education to the community. Potential applicants must attend three rush events by February 7th. Applications for membership are due by Monday, February 9th.
Read more »
Waste Reduction and Recycling Spotlight: Residential Composting Program Expands!
Morrison and Manning West will join Ehringhaus, Manning East, Ram Village, Hinton James, Connor, and Cobb as communities enrolled in the residential composting program. Residents in these communities may check out a personal compost bin via the Residence Hall Association (RHA) Enhancements program. Residents are responsible for emptying their personal bins into the green community collection cart at the designated outdoor dumpster site. The food scraps are transported to the Carolina Campus Community Garden (CCCG). CCCG volunteers mix it, turn it, and transform it into compost, a nutrient-rich soil amendment used on the garden’s crops. CCCG produce is later distributed to UNC Housekeepers. CCCG hosts volunteer workdays on Sundays and Wednesdays, 3 PM to 5 PM.
Last semester, the six enrolled communities diverted 978 lbs of food waste from the landfill! The residential composting pilot program began in Spring 2014 with four residential communities. The Office of Waste Reduction and Recycling (OWRR) works with RHA and the Department of Housing and Residential Education to incrementally enroll additional communities each semester.
Read more »
Apply Now for Sherpa Fellowship
The Mingma Norbu Sherpa Fellowship provides $1,250 to support study and research at environmental field sites, preferably abroad. Preference will be given to Buckley Public Service Scholars program participants who are majoring in business, environmental or economics disciplines. Apply by February 9th.
Read more »
Sustainability Shorts Film Competition
UNC-Greensboro is accepting short film submissions for its 6th annual Sustainability Film and Discussion Series. Entries will be screened at the Weatherspoon Art Museum on Thursday, April 23, at 6:30PM, and winners will receive a cash prize of up to $300. The competition is open to all. Films must be under 10 minutes and focused on sustainability. Entries are due by March 27th.
Read more »
Compete in the 2015 MIT Clean Energy Prize
The NSTAR MIT Clean Energy Prize (CEP) is the nation's largest student run energy entrepreneurship competition. Over $400K in prizes are available to cutting-edge startups from universities. Winners will receive $35K in funding and all participants are paired with entrepreneurial mentors. Apply by February 8th. Read more »
Vote Now for the SECU Prize for Innovation
The State Employees Credit Union (SECU) Prize for Innovation challenges students to develop new and innovative ways to address North Carolina’s challenges and future economic well-being. Four student groups have made it to the final round in the “Fan Favorite” category. Cast your vote here to help two teams win $10,000. Read more »
Triangle Transportation Requests Proposals
The Triangle Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Program of the Triangle J Council of Governments requests grant applications for projects and programs to reduce traffic and air pollution. The Triangle TDM Program promotes alternative commuting options, such as carpooling, vanpooling, biking, walking, and teleworking. Apply by March 11th.
Read more »
New York Times Covers North Carolina’s Flourishing Food Sisterhood
In a traditionally male-dominated industry, women lead North Carolina’s local-food movement and top-flight restaurants. Women have succeeded by helping one another along the way, stretching beyond restaurants, into pig farming, flour milling and pickling. Women run the state’s pre-eminent pasture-raised meat and organic produce distribution businesses and preside over its farmers’ markets. They influence food policy and lead the state’s academic food studies. And each fall, the state hosts the nation’s only retreat for women in the meat business. Read more »
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
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