Commuting for Health | Earth Week

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What a Pandemic Taught Us about Commuting

For many, one of the most drastic changes brought upon day-to-day life by the COVID-19 pandemic has been the shift to working (or schooling!) from home. For busy students and workers, this shift has also been accompanied by the loss of their daily commute, which has traditionally been viewed as an everyday hassle. However, a 2022 study paints commuting in a fascinating new light, noting the positive mental and physical benefits of public and active commuting as an opportunity to create one’s very own “liminal space.” Ultimately, the study found that creating a liminal space during one’s commute not only helps individuals destress and relax after a long day’s work, but also improves performance in the long run. Along with being better for our planet, commuting through sustainable transportation methods plays a crucial role in promoting a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle! But what exactly is a “liminal space,” and how can you create one, you may ask? More>>

Congratulations, WashU! We outcompeted the region's colleges and won the College Transit Challenge! Read more here.

Green Spaces Promote Health

For the second year in a row, USA TODAY has named Forest Park the country's #1 city park. With 89% of the US population projected to live in cities by 2050, urban green spaces are more important now than ever. More>>

Green Cup Results

After an intense three-week competition, a winner has emerged! All residential colleges showed great enthusiasm and energy (or maybe a reduction in energy?) during the annual Green Cup competition this year. More>>

Midwest Climate Summit Recap

The recent Midwest Climate Summit brought together regional leaders tackling climate issues. With over 25 workshops, attendees learned about current work in agriculture, energy, and sustainability. More>>

Carbon Negative Concrete

The cement industry emits more than 3 gigatons of CO2 worldwide. Researchers led by the McKelvey School of Engineering have received a $2 million grant to develop a process to produce carbon negative concrete. More>>

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Earth Week

March 27-April 4, various locations
Check out the various events and programs planned for Earth Week this year. Register to pick up tree saplings, stop by for free snacks at Food for Thought, break bread at an interfaith shabbat iftar, and so much more! More>>

E-waste Recycling, Paper Shredding

March 28, Throop Drive, 8 - 10:30 am
"Anything with a cord" can be recycled at this event, including computers, lawn equipment, power tools, and kitchen appliances. CDs, DVDs, and VHS tapes will also be accepted. There is a two-box limit for shredding. More>>

Active Transportation Month

Throughout April
April is one of WashU's two Active Transportation Months. Check out events planned on the Danforth and Medical Campuses. We will also be hosting a WashU Rides commuter challenge with prizes. More>>

WUSM Earth Day Festival

April 20, Medical Campus
Planning for the annual School of Medicine Earth Day Festival is underway. Any parties interested in having a table or vending at the festival or volunteering to help with the event can contact Heather Craig. More>>

Midwest Student Climate Conference

March 23, 25, virtual
This undergraduate conference brings together students, staff, and faculty from colleges and universities across the Midwest to discuss important environmental problems facing students on campus and beyond. More>>

Gender Inclusive Clothing Swap

March 23, DUC 279, 10 am - 4pm
Support circularity and gender inclusivity at this clothing swap. Drop off clothing before the swap at the Women's Building 301 (Pride Suite). This event is being organized by Transcending Gender Pride Alliance. More>>

ESCC Summer Internships

The environment, sustainability, and climate change internship program has posted summer openings. Learn more about the different positions that are available. Apply by March 31st. More>>

Sustainability Exchange Proposals

Environmental Studies is now accepting proposals for Sustainability Exchange projects for the 2023-2024 academic year. Projects will have a faculty advisor and a client. More>>

Do you have a sustainability story to tell from your office or department? Contact us to be featured as a guest author in the OOS newsletter.

Forward

The Office of Sustainability newsletter is intended as a clearinghouse of sustainability-related news and events at the university, in the region and around the world. Listings in the newsletter do not necessarily represent Office of Sustainability endorsements or views. To submit an event or news item to include in the newsletter, email sustainability@wustl.edu.

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