Liam Saranich| News Editor
As climate issues increase, college students nationwide are experiencing "climate anxiety". Climate anxiety is a heightened level of worry about the planet’s future. This sense of urgency creates a wave of sustainability initiatives across college campuses, as students find ways to address environmental concerns and push for institutional change. Climate anxiety, sometimes called “eco-anxiety,” is the emotional toll many feel when faced with the current and potential impacts of climate change. This concern is greater for college students, as they will live through some of the most significant effects of global warming.
College students are not only seeking emotional support but are also taking active steps toward sustainability on their campuses. Many students are advocating for green policies, including reducing waste, implementing sustainable energy sources, and decreasing the carbon footprint of campus operations. For instance, many student-led organizations are conducting recycling drives, food recovery programs, and educational workshops on environmental stewardship.
One popular initiative on campuses is the push for renewable energy. Many students are calling for colleges to invest in solar panels, wind energy, and geothermal systems to power their facilities sustainably. These efforts are already paying off, with institutions like the University of California pledging to become carbon-neutral by 2025. Beyond energy, students are also focusing on sustainable food practices. Campus dining services are increasingly partnering with local farms to provide organic, low-impact food options, which not only reduce emissions but also support local agriculture. Many student groups are leading “Meatless Monday” initiatives or organizing community gardens, where students grow their food and learn about sustainable farming practices. Transportation is another area where students are pushing for change. Bicycle-sharing programs, electric scooter rentals, and discounted public transit passes are becoming common on campuses. In cities like Portland and Austin, student-led campaigns have successfully increased access to eco-friendly commuting options, reducing the number of cars on the road and cutting down emissions.
On our campus Eastern Connecticut State University is committed to climate action, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050. Their initiatives include energy-efficient buildings, solar power, sustainable landscaping, and reducing food waste. EV charging stations support green transportation, and student programs emphasize sustainability-focused degrees. Through the "Institute for Sustainability," ECSU actively participates in climate-focused organizations like Second Nature and the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education, extending their environmental efforts beyond campus to contribute to state and national climate goals. As colleges adapt to student demands, sustainability is becoming more integrated into campus policies and culture. Some institutions are even making environmental studies courses a graduation requirement, ensuring that all students leave with a foundational understanding of sustainability. For students, this represents hope for a greener future and a tangible way to channel their climate anxiety into meaningful action. The students realize that their generation does not have time. They need to create campuses that respect the environment, paving the way for others to contribute to a sustainable future.
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