Sustainable Stanford
Sustainable Stanford
Sustainable Stanford is a university-wide effort to reduce our environmental impact, preserve resources and show sustainability in action. We’re determined to lead in researching, teaching and practicing environmental sustainability. Our vision: create a healthier environment now and richer possibilities for generations to come.
Dedication to outreach and a culture of innovation have been central to Stanford’s mission since its founding in 1891, when Jane and Leland Stanford exhorted university leaders to “promote the public welfare by exercising an influence on behalf of humanity and civilization.” That sense of purpose drives our commitment to incorporating sustainability practices and thinking into every aspect of campus life.
Crucial knowledge and direction for this effort comes from the Sustainability Working Group and Sustainability Working Teams as well as our professional sustainability staff.
The Working Group, founded in 2006, is composed of senior leaders from a cross section of academic, administrative and student organizations. It takes a broad view of sustainability and how all parts of the university can work together to advance sustainability goals. The Working Group advises and supports sustainability staff and Working Teams, and carries policy and funding initiatives forward to senior campus leadership.
The Sustainability Working Teams, assembled in 2008, are composed of campus operational managers, faculty with subject expertise and interested students. They develop long-term visions and plans for achieving sustainability in key areas. Members lead the execution of these plans with existing resources when they can and submit recommendations for major initiatives to the Working Group.
More information: