Sustainable Buffs

3 reasons to attend the Campus Sustainability Summit on April 15

Kyra Raye Loch — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:35:35 +0000

3 reasons to attend the Campus Sustainability Summit on April 15 Kyra Raye Loch Thu, 04/02/2026 - 14:35

Environmental Center

For 33 years, the Campus Sustainability Summit has brought together students, faculty and staff who care about making a difference. This year’s summit takes place on April 15th in the University Memorial Center (UMC) and offers a full day of learning, connection and action around sustainability at CU 91��Ҹ�.

Whether sustainability is central to your studies or work, or it’s something you’re just beginning to explore, the summit offers practical ideas, inspiring perspectives and opportunities to get involved. Here are few reasons to attend this year.

1. Explore how sustainability connects to your interests

Sustainability shows up across disciplines, roles and everyday decisions. Through interactive workshops, panels and presentations, attendees can explore how sustainability connects to academics, research, campus operations, creative work and student life.

Here are some topics that will be covered:

Decarbonization

Environmental impacts of AI

The future of sustainable transportation at CU

Composting updates

Sustainability career panel

Sustainability research collider (lightning talks)

You’ll leave with new insights and ideas you can apply in your own classes, work, or projects.

2. Connect with your campus community

The summit brings together sustainability‑minded students, faculty, staff and campus leaders from across CU 91��Ҹ�. It’s a chance to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and learn from people working on sustainability efforts throughout the university. Whether you’re looking to meet collaborators or simply listen and learn, the summit creates a space for meaningful connection.

3. Find ways to get involved and take action

From student organizations and research projects to campus programs and community initiatives, the summit highlights many ways to take action. The Sustainability Expo Hall showcases projects and programs led by students, faculty and staff, offering inspiration and next steps for getting involved. You can also participate in the Fashion Swap running throughout the day.

Review the event schedule and register to join fellow Buffs on April 15 to learn, connect and be part of a tradition focused on building a more sustainable future together.

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Coping with climate anxiety

Zoe Bryant — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 13:51:27 +0000

Coping with climate anxiety Zoe Bryant Thu, 04/02/2026 - 07:51

Counseling & Psychiatric Services

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Climate change is connected to more frequent and intense weather events like floods, fires, droughts and storms. Living through or witnessing these events, or hearing about them constantly, can bring up worry, sadness and stress. If you’re feeling affected, you’re not alone.

Climate anxiety (sometimes called eco‑anxiety) describes emotional distress related to climate change and its impacts. Common emotional responses can include grief or sadness, anger, frustration or hopelessness. These feelings often come from uncertainty about the future, concerns about safety or well‑being and a sense of limited control over large, ongoing issues. Because climate change is widespread and long‑term, it can feel especially heavy.

Learning ways to cope can help you process these feelings, avoid burnout and stay connected to everyday life—while still caring about the future. Here are some strategies to try.

Focus on what’s within your control

Climate change is complex and no single person or group can solve it alone. While that can feel discouraging, it can also be grounding to focus on day-to-day habits and actions that are within your reach.

Examples include:

Getting involved in climate or sustainability initiatives—check out events at the Environmental Center to get started, like From Anxiety to Action: Create Lasting Climate Solutions on April 7.

Signing up for a free EcoVisit to learn about how you can make your residence more sustainable.

Contacting elected officials about issues you care about.

Building sustainable habits (energy use, composting, recycling, mindful consumption).

Making food choices with lower environmental impact, like plant-based options.

Exploring alternative ways to commute.

Talking with friends or family about climate issues, or connecting with Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS).

Donating time or money to organizations you trust.

Small choices aren’t about perfection—they’re about practicing habits that support a more sustainable future.

Get involved on campus:
The Environmental Center supports students in building knowledge, leadership skills and community around environmental and climate justice at CU and beyond. Learn about upcoming events, including the 33rd Annual Campus Sustainability Summit on April 15.

Avoid overload and burnout

Trying to engage with everything can quickly become exhausting. Instead, consider narrowing your focus on the issues that matter most to you.

You don’t have to say yes to every opportunity. Choosing where to put your energy can help you reduce stress, maintain balance and stay engaged over the long term.

Practice self‑compassion

Caring deeply about climate change can come with high expectations—for yourself and others. When possible, approach your efforts with kindness rather than self‑criticism.

You might find it helpful to:

Notice and name your emotions (like “I’m feeling frustrated” or “I’m feeling sad”).

Allow space for mixed or uncomfortable feelings without judgment.

Remind yourself that caring for your mental health is part of sustainable action.

Helpful reminders:

It’s okay to feel stressed or worried about climate change.

Change takes time, and no one can do everything.

Taking breaks can help you stay engaged in ways that are healthy.

Take breaks from climate news

Constant exposure to climate‑related news or social media can intensify distress. Stepping away (temporarily) doesn’t mean you don’t care. It means you’re protecting your capacity to cope.

Taking a break might look like:

Muting news or social accounts for a while

Spending time on hobbies or creative activities

Connecting with friends or family without discussing climate issues

Spending time outdoors

Prioritizing rest and self‑care

Remember, the information will still be there when you’re ready to re‑engage.

Stay connected with others

It’s easy to focus on worst‑case scenarios, but many people are working toward solutions and meaningful change. Connecting with others who share your concerns can help you feel supported, grounded and hopeful.

One option is the Good Grief Network, which offers peer‑to‑peer support groups focused on processing climate‑related emotions and turning them into meaningful action.

Talk to someone about how you’re feeling

Climate anxiety is real and you don’t have to handle it alone. If these feelings start to interfere with daily life, reaching out for support can help.

Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS) offers workshops, drop-in hours, screening appointments and referrals to help students address mental health concerns.

By taking care of yourself and connecting with others, you can sustain your commitment to climate action while fostering resilience and hope.

Climate anxiety (sometimes called eco‑anxiety) describes emotional distress related to climate change and its impacts. These feelings often come from uncertainty about the future, concerns about safety or well‑being and a sense of limited control over large, ongoing issues. Learning ways to cope can help you process these feelings, avoid burnout and stay connected to everyday life—while still caring about the future. Here are some strategies to try.

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Moving out? Here’s what to do with your stuff

Emily Sampl — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Moving out? Here’s what to do with your stuff Emily Sampl Mon, 03/30/2026 - 00:00

Whether you’re moving out of a residence hall or your place off campus, figuring out what to keep, donate or toss doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little planning, you can save time and do your part to keep reusable items out of landfills. Here’s a guide to your main options and how to make the most of them.

Donate items you don’t want to keep

Donating helps your community and cuts down on waste.

On-campus residents: Give and Go Donation Drive

If you live on campus, take part in the Give and Go Donation Drive from April 27-May 1. You can donate:

Clothing and shoes

Usable home goods

Unopened, non‑perishable food

Books and school supplies

Toiletries, hygiene products and cleaning supplies

Items not accepted:

Bedding, pillows or towels

Broken items

Off-campus residents: Drop-off locations on The Hill

If you live off campus, use drop‑off sites on The Hill to get rid of hard‑to‑recycle items like furniture, mattresses and electronics. This program is a partnership between the Environmental Center, Off-Campus Life and the city of 91��Ҹ�.

2026 drop-off dates will be May 4-5. Students can also use this form to request a pickup of unwanted items from your property between the dates of April 20 and April 24.

Drop-off locations:

11th St. & Pennsylvania Ave.

13th St. & Euclid Ave.

15th St. & Euclid Ave.

10th St. & College Ave.

Aurora Ave. & 12th St.

There are also donation centers around 91��Ҹ� that accept usable items in good condition.

Looking to donate your bike? Unwanted bikes can be donated at the TLC and UMC bike stations, where they will be refurbished and sold at the annual fall bike sale.

Store items for next year

If you plan to keep and use your items again next year, storage is a great option.

Summer storage

If you’re looking for convenient storage solutions, check out our preferred storage partners in the area. The UPS Store at CU 91��Ҹ� offers packing, shipping and storage services to help make your move easy, and there are several other local storage providers available for your needs.

Store your bike on campus

The CU Bike Program offers secure, covered bike storage for the entire summer for $20. Bikes left on outdoor racks are often stolen, and abandoned bikes may be impounded—summer storage is a safer option.

When: April 27- May 1, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Where: CU Bicycle Warehouse (southwest corner of 3100 Marine St.) or the TLC bike station

Cost: $20 (credit/debit only)

How it works: No reservations—bikes are accepted first‑come, first‑served

If you wish to keep your bike for all of finals week, email bicycle@colorado.edu to discuss later drop-off options.

Dispose of items that can’t be donated

Some items need special handling and should not go in the trash.

Medications: Use the take‑back box in the lobby of the Parking Services and Police Department building.

Vapes and hazardous tobacco products: Dispose of them at designated locations in the UMC and Village Center.

Electronics: In Colorado, it’s illegal to throw electronics in the trash.

Donate usable electronics to thrift stores.

Recycle broken electronics at Eco‑Cycle’s Center for Hard‑to‑Recycle Materials, Staples or Best Buy.

Household hazardous waste: Learn how to dispose of hazardous waste items like fluorescent bulbs, cleaning products, motor oil, antifreeze, paint and yard care products.

Other hard‑to‑recycle items: Visit the Environmental Center website for guidance on disposing of batteries, cell phones and toner cartridges.

For more sustainability tips and resources on recycling and beyond, connect with the Environmental Center.

Whether you’re moving out of a residence hall or your place off campus, figuring out what to keep, donate or toss doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s a guide to your main options and how to make the most of them.

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Plant-based dining center hacks

Kyra Raye Loch — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 22:34:42 +0000

Plant-based dining center hacks Kyra Raye Loch Thu, 11/06/2025 - 15:34

Campus Dining & Hospitality

Are you curious about incorporating more plant-based meals and snacks into your diet? Maybe you want to start participating in Meatless Mondays or avoid eating meat or dairy at lunch. There is no right or wrong way to explore plant-based eating.

Fortunately for Buffs, CU 91��Ҹ� was named No. 1 for plant-based dining and sustainability this year with more than 50% plant-based menu offerings. Check out these tips and ideas to try more plant-based options at campus dining centers.

For all dining centers

Vegan options rotate daily on a three-week cycle, and you may need to visit two stations to build a full meal. Use the Nutrislice app with the vegan filter to plan and find your best options.

You can also look for the “V” on the food labels. Every station is required to label all their items with “V" if the item is vegan.

Breakfast options

Campus dining centers offer vegan bread, bagels, peanut butter packets and vegan Smart Balance butter! Top toast or a bagel with avocado, or peanut butter and fruit from the yogurt bar for a filling breakfast.

At the C4C Dining Center, you can visit the Latin station and top a vegan tortilla with chorizo tofu, pinto beans, home fries, avocado and vegan salsa.

The Toast Station at Village Center Dining offers a tofu scramble, plant-based chorizo, sautéed veggies and rotating sides like tater bucks, mini potato triangles and potato pancakes.

Build your own tofu veggie scramble with toppings like jalapeños, spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes and peppers at Sewall Dining.

Lunch and dinner ideas

At the C4C Dining Center:

Explore the Plant Powered Protein Station near the salad bar area.

Hummus is always available in the deli bar area and it’s perfect for dipping veggies or spreading on a deli sandwich.

The Latin station always offers a vegan protein option like chipotle tofu, plant-based chorizo or taco seitan—perfect with rice, beans, veggies and tajín fruit.

Persia offers daily vegan options like vegetable kabobs, a variety of stews, two types of rice and toppings like nuts and herb salads.

Snacks

Stock up on vegan snacks like fruit and edamame, or grab a Greens, Tomato and Quinoa Salad from grab-and-go spots like CU on the Run and The Alley @ Farrand! This is a great way to use Munch Money and Campus Cash.

Are you curious about incorporating more plant-based meals and snacks into your diet? Fortunately for Buffs, CU 91��Ҹ� was named No. 1 for plant-based dining and sustainability this year with more than 50% plant-based menu offerings. Check out these tips and ideas to try more plant-based options at campus dining centers.

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Easy ways you can save money and live sustainably

Anonymous — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 19:10:23 +0000

Easy ways you can save money and live sustainably Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 10/08/2025 - 13:10

Environmental Center

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Looking for simple ways to help the environment and save money while you’re at CU 91��Ҹ�? Energy conservation is a great place to start.

Making a few easy changes in your daily routine can help you support sustainability on campus and beyond. Here are a few practical tips to try this semester.

Book an EcoVisit

Want to see how you can save energy in your campus housing or off-campus apartment? The Environmental Center (E-Center) offers free EcoVisits for CU 91��Ҹ� students. During your EcoVisit, a student team member will show you how to use less energy—like switching to LED bulbs, unplugging electronics when you’re not using them and taking shorter showers. These small steps can add up to big savings over time.

Get ready for cooler weather

When temperatures drop, heating costs can rise. Start by wearing more layers and warm clothing—if you need items for winter, check out our Swap Shop event on Nov. 20. In your home, try adding thick curtains or using window insulation kits to keep the heat in your room or apartment. Set your thermostat to 68°F in winter, and if you have a smart thermostat, use it to schedule lower temperatures when you’re out. Always check with your landlord before making any big changes if you’re renting.

Choose sustainable transportation

91��Ҹ� is made for easy, eco-friendly travel. Walk or bike to class using the city’s network of paths, catch a Buff Bus or use your Buff OneCard for RTD public transit. If you have a bike, register it with the E-Center for free maintenance help. Interested in e-bikes? Take advantage of a free membership to 91��Ҹ� BCycle, an e-bike sharing program with lots of stations near campus. And if you drive, check out CU 91��Ҹ�’s electric vehicle charging stations.

If you don’t have a personal vehicle on campus, car sharing is a convenient way to access a car when you need one. CU students are eligible for discounted memberships and some waived fees to Colorado CarShare and Zipcar. Learn more about how to access carshare programs on campus and in 91��Ҹ�.

Learn more about sustainability at CU 91��Ҹ�

Curious about how to get involved? Start your journey with the Sustainable Buffs guide. If you are looking for something more in-depth, check out the E-Center's micro-credentials.

Find support and get involved

The E-Center is here to help you on your sustainability journey. You can volunteer, find a campus job or attend sustainability-focused events—learn more about getting involved.

Whether you’re making small tweaks or taking on bigger projects, your efforts directly support CU 91��Ҹ�’s Climate Action Plan and ongoing campus sustainability initiatives. By taking action, you’re helping our university reach its environmental goals and build a more sustainable future for the entire campus community.

Looking for simple ways to help the environment and save money while you’re at CU 91��Ҹ�? Energy conservation is a great place to start. Making a few easy changes in your daily routine can help you support sustainability on campus and beyond. Here are a few practical tips to try this semester.

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Ride smart: Tips for safe and sustainable campus cycling

Anonymous — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 16:05:02 +0000

Ride smart: Tips for safe and sustainable campus cycling Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 08/18/2025 - 10:05

Environmental Center

Listen to this article

Biking is one of the most popular ways to navigate campus and 91��Ҹ�. Here are some tips to help you maintain and protect your bike for a convenient and sustainable way to get around.

Register your bike

If you bring a bike to campus, register it with the Environmental Center. Registering your bike includes free maintenance assistance at two campus bike stations. It also helps police track down your bike if it’s ever stolen.

Park on campus

Bicycles must be parked in bicycle parking racks or secure bike shelters. 96% of bikes stolen on campus had a cable lock or no lock. Instead, park your bike using a high-quality U-lock to keep it safe. Ensure the lock goes through your bike's frame and not the front wheel. Thieves can easily remove a front wheel and take the rest of your bike.

If you don’t have a U-lock, you can trade in your cable lock at one of the bike stations during business hours for a free U-lock.

Know the rules

As a cyclist, you have responsibilities similar to those of motorists. Practice safety tips and follow the rules to avoid a citation.

Always stay on the right side of bike paths and bike lanes.

Yield to pedestrians when riding your bike.

Don’t wear headphones or ear buds when riding—this is illegal for cyclists.

Pay attention to signage on bike paths and throughout campus for dismount zones, where bike riding is prohibited.

Ride slowly around pedestrians and give them space. Pass on the left and ring your bell or say, “on your left.”

Signal your turns, just as you do when driving a car. A left arm straight out signals a left turn, and a right arm straight out signals a right turn.

Ensure you have a mounted front light and rear red reflector—this is required when riding between dusk and dawn.

Don’t drink and ride. Colorado’s DUI statute includes bicycles under its definition of “vehicle.” You can get a DUI for biking under the influence.

Wear a helmet

Wear a helmet anytime you ride to protect your head from serious injury. If you’ve been in an accident, replace your helmet as soon as possible. While you may not be able to see any visible damage, impacts can cause internal damage to the foam cushioning in most helmets, leaving you more vulnerable in the future.

There is no such thing as a concussion-proof helmet. If you hit your head while biking, schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider to check for a concussion. Learn more about concussion care and symptoms from Medical Services.

Prepare for your bike ride

If you notice issues with your bike, have a bike mechanic check it out. Students with registered bikes can visit our bike mechanics at the TLC and Folsom bike stations.

To learn even more about bike repair and maintenance, sign up for our online Bike Mechanics 101 class or explore this slide show about basic bike anatomy.

Have a backup plan

While we do our best to prepare for the unexpected, it’s good to have a backup plan if you get a flat tire or caught in bad weather. Here are a few options:

Ride RTD buses and light rails with a bike and your Buff OneCard.

Download the CU NightRide app for free late-night transportation within 91��Ҹ� city limits.

Use a ride-share service or ask someone to pick you up.

Check out events and resources

Discover a variety of biking events and resources as you navigate campus life on two wheels:

CU Bike Fest
Sept. 4 | 2-5 p.m. | Farrand Field

Enjoy free food, games and giveaways while becoming part of the CU 91��Ҹ� bike community. There will also be a used bike sale!

Semester bike rentals
Students have the option to rent a bike for a semester at a low price through the Environmental Center.

91��Ҹ� BCycle
Students can sign up with BCycle for a free CU 91��Ҹ� Student Pass, with access to unlimited e-bike rides for an entire year.

Classes and clinics
The Environmental Center offers a variety of bicycle classes and clinics to improve your skills and knowledge of bikes and bike riding.

Sustainable Buffs
Join the Sustainable Buffs Community! Get involved with sustainability and climate action at CU 91��Ҹ� and learn how you can add more sustainable actions to every day.

Biking is one of the most popular ways to navigate campus and 91��Ҹ�. Here are some tips to help you maintain and protect your bike for a convenient and sustainable way to get around.

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Before you leave town: End-of-year reminders

Lynia Herrington — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 20:59:06 +0000

Before you leave town: End-of-year reminders Lynia Herrington Mon, 04/21/2025 - 14:59

With many students planning to leave campus and 91��Ҹ� at the end of the semester, here are some tips and general reminders.

Donate items you no longer need

As you prepare for your move, consider donating items you cannot store or take with you. This reduces what may end up in a landfill and gives your items a second life.

Donation locations for on-campus residents will be available at the residence halls to collect clothing, unopened non-perishable foods, books, personal care products and more.

If you live off campus, come to the CU in the Neighborhood: Hill Move Out drop-off locations to get rid of hard-to-recycle items like furniture, mattresses, electronics and more. This is a partnership between the E-Center, Off Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations and the city of 91��Ҹ�.

Drop-off dates: May 11-14
Drop-off locations:
- 11th Street and Pennsylvania Ave.
- 13th Street and Euclid Ave.
- 15th Street and Euclid Ave.
- 10th Street and College Ave.
- Aurora Ave. and 12th Street

There are also various locations in 91��Ҹ� where you can donate usable items in good condition.

The Folsom and TLC bike stations will accept bike donations. Donated bikes will be refurbished and sold at the annual Bike Sale in the fall.

Store items

Summer storage is available for students at the campus UPS Stores.
The CU Bike Program can store your bike for $20 over the summer.

Reminders for on-campus residents

All resident contracts expire on May 8 at 10 a.m. for residence halls, Bear Creek and Weber Hall. You must complete a summer housing application to be eligible for summer housing.
Students should return their room to the original move-in condition before moving out. Follow the steps outlined in the cleaning checklist to minimize any damage charges.
Dispose of all recycling and trash in the appropriate receptacles outside your hall.
Check out summer storage options.
Return your mailbox key to your assigned UPS Store location.
Learn more about on-campus move-out information.

Reminders for off-campus residents

If you are moving out, remember to properly dispose of any items you are getting rid of. Large items will not be picked up with regular trash, and disposing of electronics in a landfill is illegal.
Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations (OCHNR) and the Environmental Center have resources on how to recycle or donate electronics, mattresses, clothing, small appliances and other hard-to-dispose-of materials.
If you are leaving 91��Ҹ� for the summer, post your sublet or create a roommate profile on Ralphie’s List, CU’s rental database.
Sublease agreements are available from OCHNR. If you have legal concerns about subleasing, you can schedule an appointment with an attorney through OCHNR for free legal advice. Student Legal Services (SLS) also provides free lease reviews. SLS can be reached by visiting UMC 311 or calling 303-492-6813.
If you will be gone for an extended period, ask a friend or neighbor to watch your property and consider putting your mail on hold while you are away. Consider setting your lights on a timer, lock all doors and windows and make sure your valuables are not visible from the outside.
Protect your property from a possible flooding situation. If you live in a flood-prone area or a basement apartment, remember to remove items from the floor before you leave. Get flood safety information.
91��Ҹ� has enacted a bear ordinance requiring all residents west of Broadway to keep their trash secured in bear-resistant containers or enclosed areas. If you are subletting this summer, properly secure your trash.
If you are still looking for fall housing, search Ralphie’s List or connect with OCHNR for a list of property management companies and apartment complexes.

With many students planning to leave campus and 91��Ҹ� at the end of the semester, here are some tips and general reminders.

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Advice from Sustainable Buffs on being a conscious consumer

Anonymous — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 00:04:20 +0000

Advice from Sustainable Buffs on being a conscious consumer Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 02/28/2025 - 17:04

Environmental Center

Sustainability starts with making the most of what you already have. Before buying something new, ask yourself: Can I repurpose something? Can I borrow it? Can I go without? The goal isn’t just to consume “better” but to consume less whenever possible. Still, when you do need to buy something, there are ways to make choices that are better for the planet.

Make everyday choices more sustainable

The way we shop and use resources impacts the world around us. Here’s how to make mindful choices:

Avoid single-use items. This goes beyond plastic—compostable and recyclable single-use items still require resources to produce and break down. Instead, invest in reusables: water bottles, food containers, shopping bags and even refillable toiletries.
Use secondhand first. 91��Ҹ� has plenty of thrift stores, and online groups (like CU Surplus, Buy Nothing groups or Facebook Marketplace) make it easy to borrow or find free items. When you're done with something, donate or resell instead of tossing it.
Eat locally, reduce waste and add more plants to your plate. Shop farmers markets, plan meals to avoid food waste and opt for more plant-based meals to lower your environmental impact.
Buy less, but better. Fast fashion and cheaply made products don’t last. Investing in durable, high-quality items saves money in the long run and keeps waste out of landfills.

Be a smart and informed consumer

Not every product labeled “green” is. Here’s how to cut through the noise:

Watch out for greenwashing. Some brands market themselves as eco-friendly without real action. Look for transparency in their sustainability claims.
Do a quick background check. Read reviews, check a company’s values and look for clear sustainability goals and actions.
Support brands that do it right. Companies that pay fair wages, minimize waste and use ethical sourcing are worth backing.

Get involved and take action

Want to go beyond your own shopping habits? The Environmental Center offers workshops, events and a community of Sustainable Buffs working toward a better future. Join us and be part of the movement!

Sustainability starts with making the most of what you already have. When you do need to buy something, there are ways to make choices that are better for the planet.

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Simple ways to be more sustainable

Anonymous — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 17:43:26 +0000

Simple ways to be more sustainable Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 02/18/2025 - 10:43

Environmental Center

At CU 91��Ҹ�, sustainability is not just a buzzword—it's a lifestyle. Our campus has a long history of student-led sustainability efforts, starting with the founding of the Environmental Center in 1970.

Looking to be more sustainable this year? Join the Sustainable Buffs Community to get tips and connect with like-minded students. Here are some ways to get started and opportunities to get involved.

Limit food waste

About a third of all food in the U.S. is wasted. When eating at dining centers, take only what you plan to eat. At home, prioritize eating perishable food and plan meals around what you have. Apps like Mealime or Paprika can help you with meal planning.

Eat more plant-based meals

Even one day a week of plant-based meals makes a difference! Check out Meatless Monday recipes for affordable and healthy ideas. CU 91��Ҹ� has also been recognized as No. 1 for plant-based dining and sustainability—use Nutrislice to find vegetarian/vegan options in dining centers.

Recycle and compost

CU 91��Ҹ� makes recycling and composting easy with bins and guides around campus. Learn what items to recycle or compost and follow your neighborhood's guidelines if you live off campus.

Reduce plastic use

Switch to reusable items like water bottles, travel mugs and shopping bags to keep plastic out of landfills. Look for quality items that you enjoy using daily, like a bamboo toothbrush instead of a plastic one.

Get involved

CU 91��Ҹ� is a place where you can live and connect in a community of like-minded individuals striving to create a better world. Here are a few ways you can get more involved this semester:

Take the Sustainable Buff Pledge and join fellow students dedicated to sustainable choices.

Check out upcoming events at the Environmental Center.

Consider joining the Applied Sustainability Learning Hub.

Participate in the Student Ideas Showcase as part of the Campus Sustainability Summit this April 22nd & 23rd, 2025.

Volunteer with Ralphie’s Green Stampede and other opportunities through the E-Center.

Looking to be more sustainable this year? Join the Sustainable Buffs Community to get tips and connect with like-minded students. Here are some ways to get started and opportunities to get involved.

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5 tips to make winter biking a breeze

Emily Sampl — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 07:00:00 +0000

5 tips to make winter biking a breeze Emily Sampl Mon, 01/27/2025 - 00:00

Environmental Center

Biking to campus is a great way to stay active and be eco-friendly, even in winter. Whether you’re a student, faculty or staff member, you can join the 91��Ҹ� community for Winter Bike to Work Day on Feb. 14 and ride to campus. Stop by the Rec Center Plaza from 7-9 a.m. for hot beverages, snacks and swag.

Whether you participate in Winter Bike to Work Day or not, here are tips for biking this winter.

Register and protect your bike

If you bring a bike to campus, register it with the Environmental Center. This includes free maintenance help at two campus bike stations. It also helps police track down your bike if it’s stolen.

On campus, bicycles must be parked in bicycle parking racks or secure bike shelters. 96% of bikes stolen on campus had a cable lock used or no lock. Instead, park your bike using a high-quality U-lock to keep it safe. Ensure the lock goes through your bike's frame, not the front wheel. Thieves can easily remove a front wheel and take the rest of your bike.

If you only have a cable lock, you can swap it for a free U-lock at one of the bike stations during business hours.

Plan for the elements

Colorado weather changes quickly, so check the forecast and consider safety before heading out.

Wear layers and choose reflective or brightly colored clothing to be seen when it’s dark. The city of 91��Ҹ� also requires bikes to have lights on the front and back for night riding. Wear shoes with a good grip on your pedals and always wear a helmet. Learn more winter weather safety tips.

Additionally, make a backup plan for bad weather:

Ride RTD buses and light rails with a bike and your Buff OneCard.
Download the CU NightRide app for free late-night transportation within 91��Ҹ� city limits.
Use a ride-share service or ask someone to pick you up.

CU 91��Ҹ� also offers a guaranteed ride home to staff and faculty who commute by bike and have unexpected changes to their schedule.

Stay up to date

Sign up for the monthly CU Bike News, a newsletter for CU bicyclists. You’ll receive updates on bike programs, events, road upgrades and construction, and tips.

Prepare for your ride

Plan your route by reviewing the 91��Ҹ� County bike map. If you’re riding in snowy weather, be mindful of snow in bike lanes and roads. Often, multi-use paths are cleared first, so consider traveling on the paths and limiting road use on snowy days. Try not to brake on slick or bumpy surfaces—stay focused and relaxed to maintain control of your bike.

If you notice issues with your bike, have a bike mechanic check it out. Students, staff and faculty with registered bikes can visit the bike mechanics at the TLC and Folsom bike stations.

To learn even more about bike repair and maintenance, sign up for the online Bike Mechanics 101 class or explore this slide show about basic bike anatomy.

Know the rules

As a cyclist, you have responsibilities similar to those of motorists. Practice safety tips and follow the rules to avoid a citation.

Always stay on the right side of bike paths and bike lanes.
Yield to pedestrians when riding your bike.
Don’t wear headphones or ear buds when riding—this is illegal for cyclists.
Pay attention to signage on bike paths and throughout campus for dismount zones, where bike riding is prohibited.
Ride slowly around pedestrians and give them space. Pass on the left and ring your bell or say “on your left.”
Signal your turns, just as you do when driving a car. A left arm straight out signals a left turn, and a right arm straight out signals a right turn.
Ensure you have a mounted front light and rear red reflector—this is required when riding between dusk and dawn.
Don’t drink and ride. Colorado’s DUI statute includes bicycles under its definition of “vehicle.” You can get a DUI for biking under the influence.

Find support

Learn more about biking and transportation options to get around campus sustainably.

Semester bike rentals: Students have the option to rent a bike for a semester at a low price through the Environmental Center.
91��Ҹ� BCycle: Students can sign up with BCycle for a free CU 91��Ҹ� Student Pass, with access to unlimited e-bike rides for an entire year.
Classes and clinics: The Environmental Center offers a variety of bicycle classes and clinics to improve your skills and knowledge of bikes and bike riding.
Report a stolen bike: Report stolen bikes to Bike Index and either the CU Police Department or 91��Ҹ� Police for the best chance of recovery.
Sustainable Buffs: Join the Sustainable Buffs Community! Get involved with sustainability and climate action at CU 91��Ҹ� and learn how you can add more sustainable actions to every day.

Biking to campus is a great way to stay active and be eco-friendly, even in winter. Get tips for biking this season.

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Sustainable Buffs

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