UCCS is working to maintain their status as one of the greenest universities in Colorado with their monthly Make n’ Take sustainability events centered around the 50th anniversary of Earth Day this year.
The Office of Sustainability, headed by Interim Director of Sustainability Kimberly Reeves, has already held an event to promote environmental consciousness and plans to hold two others to get more students involved as Earth Day nears. Each of these DIY workshops focus on how students can sustainably make their own personal hygiene products.
On March 2, sustainability assistant Aeris Michaelson led the toothpaste-making event, in which students made their own toothpaste from simple ingredients.
According to Reeves, “[Michaelson] use[s] this workshop as an opportunity to discuss other ways to reduce single-use plastics.” While there was a small group in attendance, the workshop was hands on and informational about day-to-day sustainability.
At the March 30 event, students made their own lotion bars. At the final Make n’ Take event on April 27, students will learn how to make their own deodorant. These events are co-sponsored by Student Life.
According to their information page, during these sessions, students will get to “discuss the benefits, costs, and processes of DIY in a fun and educational manner.” The office asks that each participant bring with them one reusable container such as a mason jar, tin or old deodorant container.
For those interested in attending the final workshop, RSVP and sign a safety waiver before participating. The event will take place in the Student Life Lounge starting at 1 p.m.
For other ways to get involved with the Office of Sustainability beyond these Earth Day events, there are many options available. Reeves said that the office’s sustainability internships can “provide experiential learning opportunities to help you determine career goals.”
Additionally, committees like the Green Action Fund, the Sustainability Committee and the Bicycle Advocacy are dedicated to staying green both on and off campus.
“The University is also very close to adopting its third Sustainability Strategic Plan since 2007,” Reeves said. “Our 2030 plan will help the campus community continue to reduce our carbon footprint, increase efforts in intersectional environmental justice and support our campus community.”
Given that the first Make n’ Take event was postponed due to weather conditions, the Sustainability Office offers a newsletter to keep students up to date on events and activities. Much of the 2030 UCCS Sustainability Strategic Plan will also be documented in the newsletter.