The Sustainability Badge provides an opportunity for staff and faculty to participate in campus sustainability efforts on an individual level. The Sustainability Badge challenges staff and faculty to adopt behaviors that lower their impact both on- and off-campus, in the office or at home. Whether sustainability is already at the forefront of your lifestyle or you are looking to take the first step towards reducing your environmental impact, the Sustainability Badge is for you. Any staff or faculty can earn a badge regardless of their office or department’s participation in the Green Workspace Program.
Upon earning your badge, you will gain access to the SustainableUMD Staff and Faculty Newsletter and become a member of the SustainableUMD Network. The newsletter will allow you to continue learning about current sustainability topics, engage with fellow sustainability-minded colleagues, and discover events and opportunities for staff and faculty on campus. Stay tuned for additional opportunities to connect with others in the Network.
To earn your Sustainability Badge, complete the steps below.
Review the Sustainability Badge actions checklist below. Identify the eight actions you'd like to incorporate into your personal and professional lifestyle and take action!
Complete the submission form to submit which eight actions you have now adopted. We encourage you to try and adopt at least one action from each category, but it is not required.
Upon completing the submission form, an Office of Sustainability staff will follow up to ensure you receive your badge.
Display your hard-earned sustainability badge with pride! Use your badge as a way to encourage fellow staff and faculty to earn their badges too. Just be sure not to place the sticker on any walls, windows, or other university property.
Take a photo with your badge and tag @sustainableUMD or send it to sustainability@umd.edu!
NOTE: Badges will be sent out in batches every Wednesday. If you selected to have your badge delivered through campus mail, please keep an eye out for your badge in your office mailbox. If you selected to receive a digital version of the badge, please look for an email from an Office of Sustainability representative.
Find Ideas for Taking Action:
UMD Farmers Market
The UMD Farmers Market takes place every Wednesday from 11am-3pm at Tawes Plaza from August-November and April-May. Stop by yourself or assemble a group of colleagues to enjoy fresh produce, local goods, and a beautiful campus green space.
Request a Bin
If you or your office is organizing an event or meeting, be sure to request compost and recycling bins. If possible, ask attendees to bring their own reusable mugs, plates, or utensils to reduce the amount of waste.
Find A Bin
The UMD Campus Map offers a layer to find any compost, recycling, battery, or e-waste bin on campus. Use the map feature to find where your closest bin is so you are always prepared for proper waste sorting!
Subscribe to the SustainableUMD Newsletter
Stay in the know by subscribing to the SustainableUMD monthly newsletter below! By earning your sustainability badge, you will also be automatically added to the SustainableUMD Staff & Faculty Newsletter.
Explore UMD's Green Spaces
Did you know the University of Maryland, College Park campus is an accredited arboretum? There are many beautiful green spaces to take advantage of for your next lunch break, walk to campus, or team meeting.