Sustainability On Campus

 

Sustainability is embedded in the way we manage our campus — from conserving energy and promoting local food initiatives to providing high-performance, energy-efficient and healthful facilities. We strive to reduce our environmental impact, support long-term resilience and partner with faculty and staff to prepare graduates who are ready to lead the social, environmental and economic changes needed to build a better future while positively contributing to the local economy.

How We Go Green

We are actively working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality on campus. Our efforts include monitoring emissions, promoting alternative transportation options, and engaging the campus community in climate-focused initiatives.

Sustainable construction and maintenance are a priority at UNCP. We implement green building practices, utilize eco-conscious materials, and manage landscaping in ways that conserve water and protect native ecosystems.

Help us conserve energy and meet reduction goals by turning off unused lights, unplug unneeded phantom plug loads such as cell phone chargers, use ENERGY STAR appliances and EPEAT electronics, set thermostats to 70 degrees in the winter and 75 in the summer, limit water use, etc. For more information, click here.

Reducing energy and water consumption is vital to our sustainability goals. UNCP upgrades infrastructure with energy-efficient technologies, monitors usage to identify improvements, and promotes conservation behaviors across campus.

UNCP promotes sustainable dining through local food sourcing, plant-based menu options, and food waste reduction programs. These initiatives support regional agriculture and promote healthy, eco-conscious choices for students.

UNCP is committed to minimizing waste through robust recycling programs, composting, and education. We continue to explore innovative solutions to reduce landfill use and promote a circular economy on campus.
Brave Health building at UNC Pembroke, surrounded by green grass, trees, and a clear blue sky. The structure features large windows, bike racks, and shaded pathways, showcasing sustainable landscaping and architecture.
2017 - Braves Health Center: certified Two Green Globes

Sustainability at UNCP

A group of eight people stands smiling in front of a “Tree Campus USA” banner on a university campus near a small pond. The individuals, including students and faculty, are gathered around a newly planted tree wrapped with a gold and black bow.

UNC Pembroke earned national recognition as a Tree Campus USA school for 2025

A group of eight people stands smiling in front of a “Tree Campus USA” banner on a university campus near a small pond. The individuals, including students and faculty, are gathered around a newly planted tree wrapped with a gold and black bow.

UNC Pembroke received the "Green Business" award by Sustainable Sandhills - 2016

Get Involved

mum sale agriculture UNCP

Agriculture Club

The Agriculture Club connects students with hands-on experiences and events in farming, agribusiness, and sustainability.
campus garden flower

Campus Garden & Apiary

The Campus Garden & Apiary is a place of community as well as a way to relax and connect with nature. Volunteers are welcomed as well as those who choose to just attend events.
person planting plants

Greener Coalition Student Club

The Greener Coalition's mission is to preserve and promote the conservation of the environment at UNCP.

Charging Stations

The BRAVESTATION at UNC Pembroke, featuring the entrance to the campus bookstore with large bold signage above the doors. In front, several tables and chairs are arranged for outdoor seating, including a solar-powered charging table with a curved canopy, providing students with a sustainable way to charge electronic devices while enjoying the space.

Clean Energy

UNCP is embracing clean energy with electric vehicle (EV) charging stations conveniently located on campus — making it easier for students, faculty and visitors to drive green. While you're here, stop by the solar smart table near the bookstore! It's a shaded, solar-powered charging hub where you can recharge your mobile devices using 100% renewable energy — no emissions, just sunshine.

EV car charging UNCP