female college student holds a leaf in her hand

Environmental Well-Being

Environmental well-being includes an awareness of and contribution toward balancing environmental health with equity and economics so current and future generations can thrive. Environmental stewardship involves adopting and advocating for efforts that ensure responsible and efficient resource management while increasing access to clean air and water; nutritious food; and adequate clothing, shelter, and safety in both the built and natural environments at a variety of places and scales (e.g., home, school, work, community, city, country, world).1, 2

5 Tips for Environmental Well-Being

  1. Conserve materials and resources by turning off the lights when you leave a room, composting leftovers, or using resources responsibly. Strive for sustainable consumption and materials diversion by considering the source, durability, usage, and end of life when you buy something.
  2. Make your commute green. Consider active mobility choices like walking or biking.
  3. Eat "real food." Choosing more plant forward and plant-based items is better for your body and the environment.
  4. Engage with your community regarding sustainable practices to learn and develop a more sustainable community.
  5. Get outside to take a walk and immerse yourself in sustainable, pollinator, and native landscapes.

Campus Resources for Environmental Well-Being

412 Food Rescue

412 Food Rescue prevents perfectly food from entering the waste stream by redirecting it to those who are experiencing food insecurity.

Biking at Pitt

Stop by the Pitt Bike Cave to fix up your own bike with their tools, buy a bike, or have your bike fixed up by one of our bike attendants.

Parking, Transportation & Services has a variety of resources and information for biking at Pitt including bike storage, tips and resources, maps, and much more.

Did you know that Pitt students, faculty, and staff can enjoy free unlimited 30-minute rides with POGOH?

Eco-Health Relationship Builder

Explore the relationship between the environment and health with the Eco-Health Relationship Builder.

Pitt Green Guide

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to a culture of sustainability. Pitt defines “sustainability” as balancing equity, environment, and economics so current and future generations can thrive. Keeping this in mind, Pitt is actively involved in sustainability initiatives that span across disciplines, domains, and scales.

The Pitt Green Guide provides a list of resources, information, and much more regarding sustainable practices at the University of Pittsburgh.

Pitt Green Team

The Green Team assists with green-certified events, helps to spread the word about sustainability initiatives  and engages in community service projects and special events across campus. First year students who join the Pitt Green Team receive early move-in privileges to help with Arrival Survival and zero waste events during Welcome Week. Additionally, they assist with recycling and composting events throughout the year.

Pitt Pantry

In partnership with the Bellefield Presbyterian Church (4001 Fifth Ave), members of the Pitt community can visit the Pitt Pantry to select items of need. The Pitt Pantry was created in spring 2015 with the generous support of University of Pittsburgh Housing, Sodexo, and donations from the university staff and greater Pittsburgh community.

The Pitt Pantry is dedicated to ensuring that all students have regular access to a balanced and nutritious diet by hosting regular shopping hours to obtain food and services. It is completely volunteer-run and operates on charitable donations received from individuals and organizations within the community.

Pitt Sustainability

Pitt Sustainability is the hub for all things sustainability including the areas of stewardship, exploration, and community and culture. The Pitt Sustainability Plan identifies 15 impact areas that help focus the University's sustainability goals and key performance indicators.

Browse campus initiatives, learn about the move to zero waste, and get involved in the sustainability community.

Thriftsburgh

The University of Thriftsburgh is a working model of sustainability and encourages students to think about how to reuse and recycle in a whole new light! Buying secondhand clothing reduces textile waste, cuts carbon, and promotes a culture of re-use. Sustainability, social justice, and vintage outfits for all!

Explore Environmental Well-Being Resources at Pitt-Bradford  

Explore Environmental Well-Being Resources at Pitt-Greensburg 

Explore Environmental Well-Being Resources at Pitt-Johnstown

Sources:

1Hettler (1976), Mayol (2012), Mayol et al. (2017), Roscoe (2009), and Swarbrick (2012).

2Pitt Sustainability (n.d.)