How we engage where we live and beyond is important to our impacts on student learning, practical experience, and sustainability outcomes. While the majority of our programs take place on campus or locally, we also engage regionally and nationally for change.

UMACS Conference attendees in the Weitz Center
UMACS Sustainability Conference attendees in the Weitz Center

Sustainability Action in Northfield

Our office has supported the development of Northfield’s Climate Action Plan, participated in local energy and resilience decision making and outreach, and led local, regional, and national sustainability and climate action workshops. We collaborate with many organizations on campus and in Northfield to support climate action week and Northfield’s Earth Day.

Sustainability Office collaborations with the City of Northfield and local partners include:

  • Zero Waste. The Sustainability Office, CCCE, and other campus partners contribute to Northfield’s Zero Waste efforts through hosting Zero Waste Events, supporting resale, and mending. CCCE’s annual Lighten Up sale reduces waste and generates funds and resources for Northfield Union of Youth, Project Friendship, Special Olympics, Growing Up Healthy and Operation Backpack. Carleton also helps coordinate and lead community education for the Master Recycler & Composter Program with the City of Northfield, Riverbend, and a MN Green Corps member.
  • Cannon River Community Science and Environmental Justice. We monitor water quality in the context of engaging equitable and just decisions in riverfront planning. We collaborate on campus and local partner events to engage our community in water, climate, and resilience along the riverfront and upstream.
  • Local Food Systems and the Student Farm. The Sustainability Office collaborates with Bon Appétit on food choice and waste related interventions. We also host the student farm and plan to strengthen volunteer opportunities, outreach, and collaboration with classes, campus offices, and local partners.
  • Transportation. We collaborate with offices across campus and in the community to develop solutions and to engage our state for broader change.

Professional Memberships