UConn shapes the built and natural environments on campus and across the state through research, policy engagement, and sustainable campus practices. Faculty and students work across disciplines to address climate resilience, clean energy, and coast adaptation, translating scientific findings into actionable strategies for communities. UConn leads by example on campus, holding the University to high standards in building design and construction.

Featured Efforts

View of the Long Island Sound cost from the Avery Point campus

Connecticut Institute for Resilience & Climate Adaptation (CIRCA)

The Connecticut Institute for Resilience & Climate Adaptation (CIRCA) is a multi-disciplinary research center bringing together experts in the fields of natural sciences, engineering, economics, political science, finance, and law to create practical solutions to climate change challenges. CIRCA collaborates with local, regional, and national partners to translate research into real-world action that protects lives, property, and natural environments.

About CIRCA

Classical building with "The Hartford Times" sign and UConn banners, with blurred car motion in front.

Research on Resilient Cities, Racism, and Equity (RRCRE)

The Research on Resilient Cities, Racism, and Equity (RRCRE) initiative, headquartered at UConn's downtown Hartford campus, connects scholars, researchers, students, and community partners to address challenges faced by urban communities. RRCRE's academic work spans several themes, including healthy cities, the built environment, social-ecological systems, and people and the city, and community outreach and engagement efforts seek to connect UConn's resources directly to the communities it serves.

About RRCRE

Exterior view of the Science 1 building on the UConn Storrs campus on a sunny day.

Sustainable Buildings & Construction

Our Building Operations webpage highlights UConn's commitment to furthering sustainability goals in building design and construction. UConn adopted the Sustainable Design and Construction Policy in 2016 mandating that all new construction projects (estimated at >$5 million) must design and construct in pursuance of at least a LEED Gold rating. UConn currently features more than 20 LEED certified buildings, 9 of which have achieved LEED Gold - including Science 1 (pictured above) which was completed in 2022 and certified in 2023. 

 

About Building Sustainability

Recent Articles

Recent Articles

Click the boxes below to learn more about UConn's contributions to each of the SDGs.