Published: Feb. 7, 2018 By

Chip Water Bottle Both Boulder and the University of Colorado are well-known for their efforts around sustainability. I knew this when I moved here, but a few details caught me by surprise.

CU and Sustainability

The University of Colorado has been a leader in sustainability, climate and energy research, and 鈥済reen鈥 practices; this is apparent through our Sustainability programs and university operations. 听

The MBA program offers a Graduate Energy Certificate, RASEI, to graduates who complete sustainability-focused electives. These classes are offered through the business school, the law school, and the environmental studies schools. 听The Sustainability Program features well-connected professors and growing in-state interest, which is creating more support and awareness for the program and around sustainability practices in our communities. 听

CU Mascot, Chip, with his re-usable Nalgene bottle. It鈥檚 rare to see students on campus without a re-usable bottle.

Boulder Life

-Did you know Boulder has a ? As of 2012, if you forget your reusable bags at the grocery store, each plastic bag will cost you $0.10!

-Trash Services: Recycling seems to be offered everywhere; including with residential trash services. At our 鈥淢BA House鈥 we have three separate bins for trash, recycling, and compost.

-Rental Properties: Speaking of renting, Boulder has enacted for all licensed rental housing. Our landlord has installed LED lighting, low-flow toilets, and showerheads to be in compliance. These little things can add up when it comes to your utility bills, and obviously are good for the planet!

-Alternative Transportation: The Denver area is consistently ranked in the top ten in terms of 听鈥渉ealthiest metro areas.鈥 Boulder is typically lumped into this. Not only do we have more than 300 miles of dedicated bike paths, Boulder also offers a bike share system in addition to a comprehensive bus system that is great for getting around Boulder, quick access to Denver, and also the airport. Uber and Lyft are both present as well. Needless to say, it鈥檚 pretty easy to get around without a car!

Chip Bus Pass

Chip bike

CU Mascot, Chip, demonstrating some of the more environmentally friendly ways to get around Boulder

Photos courtesy of Alex Hoots, CU Athletic Operations Intern focused on Sustainability