If you’re passionate about sustainability, the University of Minnesota is the place for you.

Turning goals into actions 

At the University of Minnesota, sustainability isn't just a goal—it's integrated into every aspect of campus life, research, and operations. Central to the University’s mission is the comprehensive Climate Action Plan, introduced in 2023, which sets ambitious targets for achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. By reducing energy consumption, significantly increasing renewable energy production, and eliminating emissions from purchased electricity by 2033, the UMN is taking substantial steps toward a sustainable future.

In addition to its ambitious Climate Action Plan, the UMN unveiled a Climate Resilience Plan in 2024, designed to prepare the campus community, infrastructure, and environment for emerging climate challenges. Currently, about 5% of the university's total energy use is powered by renewable resources, including solar energy and biofuels. With nine solar arrays already generating roughly 2.4 million kilowatt-hours annually—enough to power nearly 200 Minnesota homes—the university aims to triple on-campus renewable energy production by 2033 and increase it sixfold by 2050.

Energy efficiency is another critical pillar of the UMN’s sustainability strategy. In 2024 alone, the Twin Cities campus reduced its electricity usage by nearly 10 million kilowatt-hours, equivalent to powering 1,100 average homes in Minnesota for a year. These efforts helped prevent 7.6 million pounds of CO₂ emissions, demonstrating a tangible environmental impact.

Waste reduction initiatives are equally robust. The university aims to divert 90% of its waste from landfills. More than 75% of campus buildings already participate in composting programs, and the university’s ReUse Program ensures surplus items like office furniture and equipment are repurposed rather than discarded.

Choose a sustainability-focused major or minor

You can apply a sustainability lens to any degree program in CFANS, and your academic advisor can help you find classes that meet your requirements and explore your passion for sustainability. Here are a few majors and minors that you might be interested in. 

Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering

Innovate for a better world with Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering (BBE), where engineering meets sustainability. Design eco-friendly materials, food, and energy systems using renewable resources. This program equips students with the technical and creative tools to engineer solutions that are as smart as they are sustainable.

Environmental Sciences, Policy, and Management

Shape the future of our environment through science, policy, and management (ESPM). ESPM is an interdisciplinary major for changemakers, combining rigorous coursework with hands-on learning in labs and the field. Prepare to tackle today’s most urgent environmental issues from every angle.

Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology 

Whether you’re passionate about protecting ecosystems or managing wildlife populations, FWCB grounds students in the science behind conservation. Courses provide a strong foundation in biology and ecology while preparing for a career dedicated to preserving the planet’s biodiversity.

Sustainability Minor

The Sustainability Studies Minor immerses students in real-world problem-solving across various academic disciplines. This minor challenges students to explore environmental, social, and economic issues from multiple perspectives, arming students with the knowledge and skills to make a lasting impact now and for future generations.

Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems 

Explore how food systems shape our world, from urban farms to global supply chains. This major empowers students to tackle pressing challenges in agriculture using innovative, sustainable solutions. Courses dive into real-world projects and reimagine how we grow, distribute, and consume food.

Sustainable Systems Management

Want to drive change at the intersection of business and sustainability? SSM combines environmental problem-solving with economic and global development. With hands-on experience and interdisciplinary coursework, students are prepared to lead sustainable transformations across industries and cultures.

Learn more about sustainability-4elated degree programs and courses.

More ways students can get involved 

Students at the UMN actively engage in sustainability through various organizations and campus initiatives, empowering them to contribute meaningfully to combating climate change and fostering environmental stewardship. The University of Minnesota provides the perfect platform for anyone passionate about sustainability to make a significant and lasting impact.

BBE/SSM ambassadors

BBE/SSM Ambassadors is a student-led organization that fosters connection and outreach for Sustainable Systems Management (SSM) and Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering (BBE) students. They spend time with fellow students and volunteer to get prospective students interested in sustainability, STEM, bio-based products, environmental/ecological engineering, and systems thinking!

• For more information, contact the BBE/SSM Ambassadors' staff advisor, Erik Joerres.

Sustainability advocates program

Students can volunteer as Sustainability Advocates, becoming zero-waste experts within their residence halls or apartments. In this role, advocates educate peers on sustainable practices, organize zero-waste community events, and gain hands-on leadership experience. This initiative is a collaboration between the Office of Sustainability, Housing & Residential Life, and UMN Recycling. 

IonE opportunities

The Institute on the Environment (IonE) provides several programs for student engagement.

• Sustainability Corps: A summer program offering undergraduates internships focused on IonE's impact goals, such as energy transition, clean water, and sustainable land use. Participants receive professional development training and contribute to meaningful sustainability projects.
  
  
• Undergraduate Leaders Program: This program helps emerging leaders become real-world change-makers committed to sustainability and equity. Participants work on team projects with community partners and receive a stipend.
  
  
• SUST 4096: Sustainability Internship Course: Offered each Fall and Spring semester, this course allows students to earn credit while engaging in sustainability-focused internships.
  • The Ecolab Scholarship provides financial support for students interested in unpaid internships related to sustainability. Eligible undergraduates must be registered full-time on the Twin Cities campus and enrolled in the SUST 4096 course.

Recycling and waste management initiatives

Students can also engage with UMN Recycling through the ReUse Program to promote waste reduction and recycling on campus. Following UMN Recycling on Instagram (@recycle_umn) is a great way to stay updated on events and initiatives.​ By participating, UMN students can actively contribute to the university's sustainability efforts, gain valuable experience, and positively impact the campus and broader community.