Campus Sustainability Week begins at Taft October 1. The new initiative features a series of events designed to increase knowledge and awareness around environmental issues and our efforts as a community to promote and support sustainable living across campus.
“Our program is both modeled after and coincides with a statewide, higher education collaboration,” explains Taft’s Director of Environmental Stewardship Carly Borken. “Colleges and universities across Connecticut will host events throughout the week that not only stimulate conversation, but also build connections and inspire action. It is a concept and opportunity that lends itself well to our own community, and to Taft’s commitment to sustainability.”
At the college level, the event is coordinated by the Connecticut Alliance for Campus Sustainability. At Taft, Borken is working closely with student Eco Mons to plan a week that blends fun with learning, while shining a light on campus sustainability. The program will include a Morning Meeting and conversations with Elizabeth Kolbert, author of Taft summer reading selection The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History; a debate around the question, "Can capitalism and the climate ever be friends?; a hike; a silent dance; a waste energy audit competition; and around the issue of food sourcing and sustainability, a meatless Monday lunch, and a screening of the documentary Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret, which explores the impact of animal agriculture on the environment. Members of the Taft community will also be asked to make a pledge on Friday, Energy Reduction Day, to reduce their energy consumption.
“It is easy to take for granted the resources we use to complete the most basic tasks in our day,” notes Borken. “Conscious reduction serves as a good reminder.”
During assembly on Wednesday, teams of students will send original fashion made from trash and other natural materials down the Bingham “runway” during Taft’s first “Trashion Show.”
“It is an opportunity for a little fun and a lot of creativity. It allows us to celebrate art and individuality while embracing thoughtful recycling and sustainability,” says Borken.
Campus Sustainability Week runs through October 8. Follow Taft’s social media channels for news and information about the week’s events.