In an effort to encourage campus community members to reduce their environmental impact, Elon University has initiated a Sustainability Pledge, which asks those who sign it to make at least three positive changes in their daily lives.
Pledge takers also have the opportunity to identify the steps they are already taking to reduce their impact on the environment.
The Sustainability Pledge acknowledges the power of individual actions and their ability to contribute to a more sustainable society, said Elaine Durr, the university’s sustainability coordinator. Individual commitment to sustainability through everyday actions influences others to do the same.
The pledge content was created by the Student Sustainability Council in coordination with Durr. It is divided into categories: Energy, Waste, Transportation, Food and Water, Purchasing and Get Involved.
With 6,800 community members, Durr said, Elon University can make a difference.
“The categories illustrate that sustainability should be weaved throughout our lives not just in turning out the lights or recycling a plastic bottle,” Durr said.
Action items range from ‘Print on both sides of paper’ to ‘Use at least two reusable bags each time I shop.’ Items in the pledge are not the only things people can do to lighten their impact but rather serve as a good beginning or reminder for all of us on how we can reduce our environmental impact.
To take the Sustainability Pledge, click on the ‘Sustainability Pledge’ link on the right of this page.