University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee

Campus Initiatives Home

Sustainability at UWM can be seen across campus.  From green roofs, to environmentally responsible carpet selections, to recycled computers, to energy efficiency overhauls of major campus buildings.  Changes in campus operations seek to reduce energy, waste, and toxic materials, while increasing recycling, renewable energy, and campus awareness of green practices and procedures. 

The Office of Sustainability is housed within Physical Plant Services.  Energy conservation, recycling, green cleaning, landscaping, surplus, water conservation, and other operations are handled through this department.  However, sustainability reaches across campus, bridging the gap- with Restaurant Operations, the Purchasing Department, University Safety & Assurances, University Information Technology Services, University Housing, and many other committees and staff.

At times, campus sustainability initiatives also connect with Academics.  The School of Architecture, the College of Engineering, and the Conservation and Environmental Science Program have initiated and assisted Physical Plant Services with stormwater management, solar PV panel installation, and roof top gardening.  Connecting student studies with campus initiatives is critical to institutionalizing sustainability at UWM.

	Surplus Repurposing and recycling UWM campus furniture and equipment
	Recycling Managing our waste by recycling, beyond bottles and cans
	Greenroofs & Landscaping Reducing our stormwater runoff and cultivating native species
	Energy, Water, & Buildings Conserving our energy and water, installing renewable energies, and building green
	Green Cleaning Eliminating toxic chemicals to environmentally-friendly standards and saving water
	Transportation Offering alternatives to single-driver commuting to campus
	Food & Purchasing Reducing the carbon footprint through local, green purchasing and food choices