American University (AU) has set a bold target: achieving zero waste by 2030. To support this mission, students and staff are taking practical steps towards making sustainability part of their daily lives.
The gardening class is a prime example of this commitment. It helps students learn sustainable practices while getting their hands dirty. Sky Chaus, a senior and teaching assistant for the course, emphasizes the importance of connecting with the Earth. “Starting a garden is the best way to nurture your relationship with nature,” they say.
This course offers real-world experience that redefines how students perceive sustainability. “They come in excited about their plants,” Chaus explains. “They’re sharing knowledge, building community, and thinking differently about sustainability.”
Topics in class range from composting to waste management. “We explain what can and can’t be composted,” Chaus notes. “Understanding these nuances brings the idea of zero waste to life.”
Every week, students cultivate edible and medicinal plants, learn about seed preservation, and focus on soil health. They also discuss food security and foraging, connecting agriculture back to the community. Chaus points out, “The garden represents resilience. It helps students rediscover food and the hard work involved in growing it.”
AU’s sustainability efforts can also be seen in places like The Bridge Cafe. “All of our cups and straws are compostable,” says Dalvin Perez, a senior and assistant manager there. “We even compost our coffee grounds and hibiscus from our drinks.”
Yet, not everyone is aware of AU’s zero-waste goal. Perez learned about it through a nutrition class. “Students not enrolled in sustainability courses might never hear about this,” he adds. He believes faculty involvement is key to spreading awareness. Perez praises AU’s Green Teaching Program, which recognizes professors who prioritize sustainability in their teaching. “More teachers should adopt similar practices,” he suggests. “It integrates sustainability into learning.”
Both Chaus and Perez agree that achieving long-term sustainability requires cultural change. “Accessibility to information and funding is crucial,” Chaus says. “It’s tough for students to choose eco-friendly options when they’re more expensive or when information is missing. Classes like ours bridge that gap and make sustainability real.”
In fact, studies show that educational programs focused on sustainability can significantly increase students’ awareness and engagement. According to a recent survey, 70% of students who participated in such programs reported making more environmentally conscious choices in their everyday lives. This illustrates the tangible impact education can have in fostering a sustainable mindset.
As AU strives for its zero-waste objective, the passion and initiatives from students and staff are essential. They show that sustainability is not just a goal but a journey that starts with informed choices and community collaboration.
