What is Sustainability?
The most widely accepted and used definition of sustainability is meeting the needs
of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their
own needs.
Sustainability is about more than increasing recycling. It is about finding a balance
that allows us to foster environmental, social and economic sustainability in a way
that will preserve natural resources and enhance communities around the world for
generations to come.
While many of our campus programs focus on environmental stewardship, we also strive
to promote values such as community service and engagement, support our local economy
with our purchasing choices, provide sustainable compensation to our employees, and
ensure that inclusive engagement is a priority, not only on our campus, but in our
community as a whole.
Discover a few of the ways MSU is advancing environmental, social and economic sustainability:
- The Geography and Sustainability Major, a program that provides students with hands-on experience working with sustainability
in the field, through labs, and with Geospatial technology.
- The Sustainability Minor, an interdisciplinary program that allows students to expand their knowledge on sustainability
topics and compete in this growing field.
- The Student Sustainability Fund, which provides nearly $150,000 dedicated to sustainability projects on campus.
- The MSU Campus Garden, which is managed by students and provides all-natural produce to students, faculty,
staff and community members.
- The Hydration Stations located across campus, which have collectively saved over 3 million water bottles
from being used and sent to the landfill.
- Recycling locations all over campus.

Check out our Sustainability Brochure for more information about our sustainability programs and initiatives on campus.
Transportation accounts for roughly 30% of the carbon footprint for Americans! It
is estimated that you can lower your environmental footprint by 20% by not owning
or driving a car! Learn how to reduce your transportation footprint on campus.
Sustainability literacy is essential to a sustainable future. Sustainability is everyone’s
responsibility: both in our personal and professional lives. Become a sustainable
citizen by expanding your knowledge with these sustainability education programs.
In 2009, students voted to implement a $2 per semester fee to go towards sustainability
initiatives on campus. These funds are then matched by the University up to $75,000
each academic year. The Student Sustainability fund is to be used solely by students
for students.
Do you have a Sustainability Team in your Office?
The Sustainability Teams program gives Missouri State University employees an opportunity
to reduce the environmental footprint of their office or department and the campus
as a whole. Learn more about the Sustainability Teams program, see a list of existing Sustainability Teams or find out how to create a team.
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Donate
Show Your Support by making a Tax-Deductible Donation to the MSU Fund for Sustainability
