campus-wide efforts
Explore the specific policies, decisions, actions, and strategies we use to make a tangible difference in University sustainability practices.
Recycling, Composting, and Waste
Butler University has a goal to be zero waste by 2030. This goal requires a campus-wide commitment to drastically decrease consumption, establish innovative methods for reusing hard-to-recycle materials, and increase community education on proper waste management practices.
Sustainable Grounds
We’re shifting perspectives on how a college campus should look. From landscaping to habitat protection, we lead by example, starting with our physical location.
Holcomb Gardens Initiatives
Discover how sustainability efforts enhance Butler’s historic Holcomb Gardens.
Blue’s Closet
Blue’s Closet, Butler’s thrift store, reduces the environmental impact of fast fashion and provides access to inexpensive clothing to the Butler community through donations of gently used clothing and convenient second-hand shopping.
Sustainable Transportation
In addition to promoting a walkable campus, we seek to minimize the use of vehicles through bike, bus, and ride-share programs.
Food & Dining
Butler is committed to sustainable, local, and ethically-sourced food. Learn more about some of our most notable efforts toward making our campus dining as green as possible.
Energy & Green Buildings
Butler prioritizes building and managing campus infrastructure for reduced energy and environmental impacts. Seven Butler buildings have earned Gold certification by the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), and Silver is the minimum standard for new projects.
Well-being
By acknowledging and addressing solastalgia, eco-anxiety, and eco-grief, Butler aims to create a resilient and supportive community that collectively works towards a sustainable future.
Purchasing
Two of Butler’s purchasing policies are designed specifically to uphold the University’s commitment to sustainable procurement. Purchases are made with both sustainability and diversity in mind.
Technology
Through the implementation of new technology strategies, Butler is decreasing computing energy use through smart systems management.
Water Use & Management
We’re reducing water consumption and managing stormwater runoff through the installation of water-saving devices, restroom renovations, and a green infrastructure project in partnership with the City of Indianapolis.
Responsible Investment
We’re reimagining our investment portfolio for transparency and global impact. In 2023, Butler University leadership approved the Responsible Investing Task Force to advise on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues when making investment decisions.