Sustainability Tips

If you are interested in learning more about sustainability at CU Boulder or would like to get involved with sustainability programs, visit the Environmental Center for more information on how to get started.

Energy
  • Turn off lights when not in use and unplug unused appliances
  • Turn your mini-fridge thermostat up to 38掳F (level 3) which keeps your food nice and fresh, and saves energy
  • Use CFLs versus incandescent light bulbs (they use 75% less energy)
Water
  • Fill up your reusable water bottle at refill stations in the residence halls and all dining operations
  • Wash only full loads of laundry and use cold water
  • Turn off the water when brushing your teeth and consider taking shorter showers
  • Report water and energy waste (leaky faucets, etc.) through 
Resources
  • Bring reusable bags when shopping locally and avoid plastic disposable bags whenever possible 
  • Avoid purchasing products with excessive or unsustainable packaging
  • Purchase items that are reusable or repurposed, and donate unwanted items to thrift stores and community assistance partners to minimize items going into landfills
  • Visit the  for tons more tips and information
Food
  • Bring your own travel mug or water bottle for your beverages in the dining centers and grab-n-gos
  • When visiting the Alferd Packer Grill at the UMC, use the available reusable to-go containers and bring a reusable bag for your food
  • In the dining centers, use only the plates, cups, and utensils you need鈥攖hat cuts down on water usage in the dish room
  • Recycle. It's easy鈥搕here are recycling receptacles all over campus and Boulder! Check out the 
Landfill
  • Bring your own travel mug or water bottle for your beverages in the dining centers and grab-n-gos
  • When visiting the Alferd Packer Grill at the UMC, use the available reusable to-go containers and bring a reusable bag for your food
  • In the dining centers, use only the plates, cups, and utensils you need鈥攖hat cuts down on water usage in the dish room
  • Recycle. It's easy鈥搕here are recycling receptacles all over campus and Boulder! Check out the