Changing consumption and production patterns requires both cultural shifts and institutional commitments. UConn's efforts target both - across campus operations, dining, academic programming, and student life, UConn works to reduce waste, minimize environmental impact, and encourage students to cultivate sustainable habits.

Featured Efforts

Students browsing through racks of clothes in the Thrift Den

UConn Thrift Den

The Thrift Den is a circular initiative on campus designed to be an accessible, welcoming place for students to engage in sustainable fashion. All clothing donations come from the UConn community, primarily through donation bins located in residential areas. Members of the UConn community can then “shop” for one free item per week. To help extend the life of clothing items, the Thrift Den also hosts sewing workshops and sewing hours to give students the skills and resources to steward their clothing. 

 

About the Thrift Den

Photo of the UConn School of Business title on the Business building, through some fall foliage

Master's in Social Responsibility & Impact in Business (MSSRIB)

The Master's in Social Responsibility & Impact in Business (MSSRIB) program, offered by the School of Business, aims to equip students with the knowledge and experience to create sustainable business solutions and embrace socially responsible business practices, especially in alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Coursework takes 'a holistic approach, shaping individuals into leaders capable of contributing to both the growth of a company and the betterment of society.' The SRIB program is available as an MS, Accelerated MS, and Graduate Certificate.

 

About MSSRIB

Fall foliage shows in front of the Wilbur Cross cupola on Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025

President's Committee on Corporate Social Responsibility

The President's Committee on Corporate Social Responsibility oversees UConn's commitment to ethical and sustainable procurement practices and supports the University's interest in working with vendors that demonstrate a shared commitment the values outlined in the Vendor Code of Conduct. The Code of Conduct sets clear minimum standards for suppliers regarding labor and wage standards, international human rights, environmental sustainability, workplace safety, etc., as well as preferential expectations for chosen vendors.

 

About the Committee

Sustainability in Dining

UConn Dining Services is actively committed to sustainability in dining through several initiatives designed to reduce environmental impact. Efforts include sourcing local and organic foods; transforming food waste and distributing unused food through partnerships with Quantum Organics and Community Outreach, respectively; and promoting reusable containers and mugs in place of single-use plastics across campus.

 

About Sustainability in Dining

Recent Articles

Recent Articles

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