Sustainability at NC State happens every day in offices, classrooms, laboratories, meetings and across campus. As a faculty or staff member, there are plenty of ways to make a difference, whether you’re looking for one simple action or want to get your whole workplace involved.

Start where you are. Pick an action that works for you and build from there.

1. Save Energy and Resources

Small changes to how we use energy and resources can add up across campus.

Help to Sustain Our Pack and:

• Turn off lights and electronics when they aren’t needed.
• Power down computers and monitors at the end of the day.
• Reduce unnecessary printing and print double-sided when possible.
• Share equipment and supplies rather than buying duplicates.
• Choose reusable products when possible.

2. Strive for Zero Waste

Help keep useful materials out of the landfill by reducing, reusing and recycling.

• Know what to throw into recycling, compost and landfill bins.
• Choose reusable cups, bottles, dishes and utensils.
• Reuse office supplies and furniture.
• Reduce paper use and unnecessary printing.
• Learn more through NC State’s Zero Waste, Recycling 101 and Composting 101 courses on REPORTER.

3. Rethink Your Commute

Getting around campus doesn’t always require a car. Consider:

• Walking or biking to campus and between meetings.
• Taking the Wolfline.
• Carpooling with colleagues.
• Using virtual meetings when travel isn’t necessary.
• Sharing transportation options with your department or team.

Even changing one trip a week can be a good place to start.

4. Make Your Events More Sustainable

Planning a meeting, workshop, reception or conference? Build sustainability into your event from the start.

Think about:

• Borrowing instead of buying new.
• Going digital for promotions.
• Providing recycling and composting.
• Using reusable serviceware.
• Choosing sustainable food options.
• Ordering the right amount of food to minimize waste.
• Making your event accessible by walking, biking or public transportation.

Take it a step further: NC State’s Sustainable Event Certification recognizes events that incorporate sustainable practices.

5. Make Your Workplace Sustainable

Ready to get your colleagues involved?

Sustainable Workplace Certification gives departments and offices a framework for making sustainability part of everyday operations. Workplaces can earn Contributor, Steward or Champion certification based on their sustainability efforts.

It’s a chance to turn individual actions into a shared effort to save resources and build a culture of sustainability.

6. Learn, Connect and Take Action

You don’t have to figure it out alone. The University Sustainability Office offers resources, training and opportunities to help faculty and staff bring sustainability into their work.

Request a presentation for your department, team or employee group to learn more about sustainability topics relevant to your workplace.

You can also explore REPORTER sustainability courses and find upcoming sustainability events and programs.

Start Small. Think Bigger.

Whether you turn off your monitor, take the Wolfline, host a more sustainable event or help your department become certified, your everyday choices can help move NC State forward.

Find an action that works for you and get started.