What does it mean for a school to be 'sustainable'?

I've been looking into colleges, and under some of the strengths of certain schools, 'sustainability' is listed. It's pretty enough on paper, but what does it actually mean for a college to be sustainable? How does it impact student life there?

When we talk about a college being 'sustainable', we're referring to how it integrates practices that promote environmental health, economic vitality, and social equity into its operations and academic programs. Simply put, a sustainable college is one that strives to promote environmental conservation, social responsibility, and economic prosperity.

In practice, a sustainable college might have initiatives such as recycling programs, solar panels, energy-efficient buildings, composting stations, and teaching organic farming or other sustainability skills. They may also prioritize purchasing from local or ethical sources, minimizes waste, and encourages the use of public transportation or cycling over cars. In terms of curriculum, there could be an emphasis on courses or majors focused on environmental sciences, sustainability, or a related field.

As for how it impacts student life, it varies from college to college. Students at a sustainable college might have the opportunity to live in green buildings, enjoy local and organic food in the cafeteria, and engage in student-led sustainability projects. They might participate in clubs and organizations centered around environmental stewardship or even have the opportunity to conduct sustainability-related research.

Overall, the goal is to provide students with a holistic understanding of sustainability that prepares them not just to survive in the world of tomorrow, but to lead it. It also provides an environment in which students can learn to value the environment and understand their role in its preservation. As such, if you're passionate about environmental responsibility and wish to live in a community that shares that dedication, attending a sustainable college might be right for you.