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The Hidden Costs of AI
Generative AI (artificial intelligence) tools such as ChatGPT and other Large Language Models have had a significant impact in almost every facet of society, but in education and university settings especially, generative AI is transforming the way that students and professors conduct their everyday work. With 24/7 access to streamlined information, students now rely heavily on AI technology in all areas of education. A 2024 study from the Digital Education Council found that 86% of students use AI in their studies and that ChatGPT is the most used AI tool among students. WashU has even launched its own version of ChatGPT, further signifying the prominent role that AI now plays in academia. More>>
Focal Pointe wins MCE Award
Last month, WashU's Grounds Service contractor, Focal Pointe Outdoor Solutions, was awarded the Ralph Wafer Environmentally Sustainable Business Award at the Missouri Coalition for the Environment luncheon. More>>
Active Transportation Month
October is Active Transportation Month, hosted by Parking & Transportation Services and the Office of Sustainability. Join the Commuter Challenge, participate in Mystery Shuttle Week, and get a free bike tune-up! More>>
Leave the Leaves
It's that time of year when we can expect to soon see leaves littered across the ground. Many insects and invertebrates rely on fallen leaves for protection and habitat in anticipation of the colder months. More>>
MCS accepting Workshop Proposals
Save the date for the Midwest Climate Summit in Madison, Wisconsin from April 30 to May 2 for a chance to engage with professionals working in related fields. A call for workshop proposals for the summit is open until October 25. More>>
Climate Supercharging Wildflowers
A Living Earth Collaborative study found that local flowers are blooming up to several weeks longer than in past decades. Researchers studied data going back more than a century to identify the reason: climate change. More>>
Startup Spotlight: Sustain-a-Plate 
In this Skandalaris Startup Spotlight, learn about Sustain-a-Plate, a venture founded by Olin MBA student, Franklin Taylor. Taylor's company aims to cut food waste by recovering food close to its sell-by date. More>>
Harvest Festival
Oct. 17, 11 am - 1 pm, UHSP Quad (WUSM)
Celebrate local and sustainable food at the annual Harvest Festival where farmers market vendors will have special offerings. There will be a cider press demonstration, apple cider samples, cookie decorating, and prizes. More>>
WUSM Farmers Market
Thursdays, 10 am - 2 pm, UHSP Quad (WUSM)
Stop by WashU's weekly farmers market for fresh seasonal produce from HOSCO, WashU's Community Supported Agriculture partner, purchase wholesome artisan baked goods, farm fresh mushrooms and much more. More>>
Net Impact Career Expo
Oct. 15, 3 - 5 pm, Virtual
The Virtual Net Impact Career Expo allows students to connect with employers that make a direct and positive impact on people and planet. This is a collaboration between Net Impact and the Center for Career Engagement. More>>
Gender-inclusive Clothing Swap
Oct. 18, 10 am - 4 pm, DUC 276
Donate old clothes and grab something new! This annual event is hosted by WashU Pride Alliance and Transcending Gender. Drop off clothes beforehand in the donation bin in the Center for Diversity & Inclusion office. More>>
Alumni Climate Change Community
Oct. 22, 6 - 7 pm, Virtual
The WashU Climate Change Community is hosting a special virtual event discussing climate action efforts across generations, featuring Lawrence MacDonald, author of Am I Too Old to Save the Planet? Registration required. More>>
 
Capturing Nature Exhibit
Now through Dec. 15, Olin Library
Visit the John M. Olin Library's Thomas Gallery to view botanical artifacts across diverse media. This exhibition combines a broad range of materials created over centuries to examine how humans interact with plants. More>>
Dark Sky Missouri Festival
Oct. 25 - 26, Van Buren, MO
Bird migratory season is upon us once again. Reduce risks for birds by closing blinds at night and assessing outdoor lighting. Check out the Dark Sky Missouri Festival to learn more about light pollution and stargaze. More>>
OneSTL Sustainability Lab
Oct. 29, 3:45 pm, T-REX or Zoom
Meet our local Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers (TCTACs) that provide training, assistance, and capacity building on writing grants for communities with EJ concerns. More>>
Endangered Wolf Center Volunteers
The Endangered Wolf Center is seeking volunteers for their 2024 wolf breeding observation project. If you are interested in volunteering,  check out the FAQs and please contact Lindsey Olimpio. More>>
Dept. of Physics Science Writer
WashU's Department of Physics is seeking a Science Writer who will work with faculty on grant applications, write grant reports, and publish manuscripts. Time-limited up to two years. More>>
Pumpkin Composting
Earthday365 will again be accepting seasonal decorative pumpkins for composting at two locations in St. Louis starting Nov. 1. Pumpkins must be free of paint and wax before disposal. More>>
Citizens Climate Lobby Internships
Fellowships and internships with the Citizens Climate Lobby are enriching learning experiences for college students and recent graduates. Remote positions. Apply by Oct. 15. More>>
 
Do you have a sustainability story to tell from your office or department? Are you an alum working in sustainability and willing to share? Contact us to be featured as a guest author in the OOS newsletter.
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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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