Sustainability

Colgate’s commitment to sustainability permeates both the university’s academic mission and its operations.

Our Commitment

In April 2019 Colgate became the first institution of higher education in the State of New York to achieve carbon neutrality. For over a decade the university has focused on and invested in efforts to weave sustainability into the academic curriculum, and to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions.

The continued success of the university in its sustainability mission requires the ongoing and active commitment of students, faculty, staff, and alumni.

100%
Carbon neutral
Gold
AASHE STARS Ranking, 2022
>50%
Gross campus carbon footprint reduction, 2009–Present

Explore Current Initiatives

Sign with flipcards that read Our Pathway to: Carbon Neutrality
Climate Action Planning

Colgate's ongoing effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change

Grace Littlefield, Colgate Class of 2016, photographed at the Colgate Community Garden, located on Route 12B in Hamilton, N.Y., during one of the monthly summer work parties.
Community Garden

A welcoming community space to explore local and organic food production along with regularly planned activities and events

Skillet of vegetables
Food & Dining

Colgate's Dining Services is committed to sustainable, local, and ethically sourced food procurement

The entrance to Benton Hall a LEED Platinum-certified building on campus
Energy & Green Buildings

Colgate's commitment to green building practices

Scenic view of Colgate campus buildings on the hillside amidst the trees
Land & Forest Stewardship

Caring for Colgate's forests and campus trees for long-term sustainable management

Recycle symbol
Waste Minimization & Recycling

Source reduction and waste diversion programs on campus

Photo of campus trees changing color in fall.
Green Revolving Loan Fund

Investing in campus projects that reduce operating costs and Colgate's carbon footprint

Student locking a bike to a bike rack.
Sustainable Transportation

Electric vehicle charging, the Green Bikes Program, and more

Colgate contributes research, fosters innovation, and models environmental sustainability to the community and beyond... Colgate must continue to mitigate its impact on the climate and to strive to be a model of environmental responsibility.

Colgate University The Third-Century Plan

Sustainability News

Campus hillside blooms in spring (photo by Mark DiOrio)
Colgate Sustainability Launches Online Dashboard
Students help to prepare Colgate's Community Garden for a new season during 13 Days of Green. Photo by Mark DiOrio.
Colgate Celebrates 15th Annual 13 Days of Green Celebration
View of Colgate in autumn
Colgate University Ranks Fourth in 2024 Sustainable Campus Index

Campus Map

View the full Sustainability map.