Some classes change your perspective in unexpected ways. For former UVA basketball player Justice Bartley, an environmental science class sparked a long-term interest in the environment and sustainability.

Sustainability is about finding "win-win-win" solutions that are good for the planet, people, and the bottom line. As the coronavirus pandemic has swept through and challenged the typical modes of operation for our University, extra emphasis has been placed on keeping people safe and reducing costs. Fortunately, many environmentally green solutions can also save some "green" and help us be good stewards of UVA's resources during this tough time.

The ISO has gone above and beyond to incorporate sustainability into each aspect of its work, including completing the Green Workplace Program.

Second-hand stores offer a sustainable, fun, and often more affordable way to shop while mitigating waste and promoting a circular economy. If you're in the market for school supplies, clothes, furniture, home goods, vintage items, accessories and masks, outdoor gear, and more, check out Charlottesville's many second-hand stores!

The Green Labs program, started in 2016, helped lead efforts to improve lab sustainability at UVA. The subsequent success and expansion of the program has created new opportunities for students to contribute to Green Labs initiatives around Grounds, including positions for two Green Lab interns.

Getting crafty during quarantine? During the last two weeks of April, UVA Sustainability student employees hosted the Waste Reimagined art competition. The competition encouraged students to think differently about the waste around them; participants had to use recycled, repurposed or forgotten items as a main component of their piece. See some of our top submissions below:

The Facilities Management Sustainability Council is excited to recognize Vinnie Vawter & Doug Rush from the Health System Physical Plant as our next Sustainability Champions. 

At UVA, students, faculty and staff are pursuing initiatives to promote sustainability on grounds and around the world.