Get Involved!

Student Involvement

Although you, the students, do not have the authority on the final decisions for these proposed plans, much can be done. By becoming aware with what potential changes are to come to campus, students can contribute by letting the university know what amenities you would like to see. The campus planners, who do have authority positions, have consultation and discussion meetings with stakeholders of the university, which includes the students. So through these opportunities the student body can be a part of the ongoing changes.

One great way to become involved is to join the United States Green Buildings Council (USGBC). This group specifically studies about environmentally sustainable building. The mission of the club is “To transform the way buildings and communities are designed, built and operated, enabling an environmentally and socially responsible, healthy, and prosperous environment that improves the quality of life” (USGBC). Specifically the UMD chapter organizes field trips to local LEED Certified buildings in order to give students a first-hand look at how to implement sustainable technologies, hosts lectures on sustainability by influential figures in the industry, and volunteers for sustainable efforts around campus, complete projects aimed at raising awareness of sustainable practices and technologies (USGBC). To join the student group, click here.

If not interested in this group there are a plethora of other groups and activities that you as students can join to become more involved with the campus changes and help spread the word to your peers, here. From this you will not just learn more about being green, but be a direct reason for an increase in sustainability, money saved, and many other changes around campus.