UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN SUSTAINABILITY GUIDE 2014–2015

“Sustainability is central to U-M’s mission.

Imagine the impact that 80,000 students, faculty,

and staff can have in deepening the culture

of sustainability both on campus

and across the globe.” Donald Scavia, Special Counsel to the U-M President for Sustainability

2GREEN

MARKET

area retailers,restaurants, & recreation

12CLIMATE ACTION

energy savers& sustainable transportation

16WASTE

PREVENTION

reduce, reuse,recycle

20HEALTHY

ENVIRONMENTS

sustainable food & water

quality

22COMMUNITY AWARENESS

U-M opportunities & initiatives

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P lanet Blue starts with you. It is the

collective sustainability effort of students,

faculty, and staff at the University of

Michigan representing a unified commitment to

living sustainably. It encompasses the breadth of

sustainability education, research, and operations

work taking place on our campus and beyond. We are committed to solving sustainability challenges on local-to-global scales by creating, teaching, and

practicing innovative approaches that improve the

health of the planet and enhance the quality of life for

present and future generations.

Together, we are working to fulfill campus

sustainability goals in the areas of climate action,

waste prevention, healthy environments, and

community awareness.

That’s where you—and this fifth annual U-M

Sustainability Guide—come into play. This booklet is designed to guide you on a path to living on Planet Blue. We cannot reach our goals without living them

every day and encouraging our friends and family to do

the same. We hope you use this guide as a reference

for information, insights, and inspiration.

green market

Whether you’re in the market for a new bike or a pair of jeans, planning a dinner

out, or looking for something to do over the weekend, this Green Market Guide is packed with environmentally responsible shops, restaurants, and organizations. Where you spend your time and money matters. Be sure to ask about discounts available by showing your U-M ID card!

3L E A R N M O R E AT W W W. S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y. U M I C H . E D U

BIKE SHOPSLooking for a new (or new-to-you) set of wheels? Here are some locally

owned shops that can help you get in gear. Want to rent a bike instead?

Check out the bikeshare and bike rental programs on page 14.

Campus Student Bike Shop336 Maynard St.

(734) 327-6949 www.campusstudentbikeshop.com

Great Lakes Cycling & Fitness2270 W. Stadium Blvd.

(734) 668-6484

www.greatlakescycling.com

Midwest Bike and Tandems1691 Plymouth Rd.

(734) 213-7744 www.midwesttandems.com

Sic Transit Cycles1033 Broadway

(734) 327-6900

www.sictransitcycles.com

Transition Rack217 S 4th Ave.

(734) 214-9700

www.transitionrack.com

Two Wheel Tango3162 Packard St.

(734) 528-3030

AND

4765 Jackson Rd.

(734) 769-8401 www.twowheeltango.com

Wheels in Motion3400 Washtenaw Ave.

(734) 971-2121 www.wheelsinmotion.us

Just need a tune-up? Check with your local bike shop about their services

and fees. You can also check out Common Cycle, a donation-run, local

organization whose mission is to get more people on their bikes. They

teach basic repair, maintenance, and riding skills. You can find their

mobile repair station at locations around town. www.commoncycle.org

4 L E A R N M O R E AT W W W. S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y. U M I C H . E D U

REUSE STORES

Buying previously owned merchandise and/or donating unwanted items

to thrift stores is an easy way to help reduce waste, as well as to keep

money in the local economy. Here are some of the many reuse outlets in

Ann Arbor (for items such as clothing, décor, electronics, furniture, and

much more).

A2Up, Upcycle Project1115 South University, Ste C.

www.a2up.com

Ann Arbor PTO Thrift Shop2280 S. Industrial Hwy.

(734) 996-9155

www.a2ptothriftshop.org

Dear Golden Vintage 211 S. Fourth Ave.

(734) 369-3010

http://deargolden.blogspot.com

The Getup Vintage215 S. State St.

(734) 327-4300

www.thegetup.com

Habitat for Humanity ReStore170 Aprill Dr. (north side of building)

(734) 822-1530

www.h4h.org

Kiwanis Thrift Sale200 S. First St.

(734) 665-0450

www.kiwanissale.com

U-M Property Disposition3241 Baxter Rd.

(734) 764-2470

www.umich.edu/~ofa/PropDisp

Ragstock337 E. Liberty St.

(734) 994-4646

www.ragstock.com/stores/ann-arbor

The ReUse Center2420 S. Industrial Hwy.

(734) 222-7880

www.recycleannarbor.org

Salvation Army1621 S. State St.

(734) 332-3474

www.sawashtenaw.org

St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store1001 Broadway St.

(734) 761-1400

www.svdpaa.org

The Scrapbox581 State Cir.

(734) 994-0012

www.scrapbox.com

Treasure Mart529 Detroit St.

(734) 662-1363

www.treasuremart.com

Value World345 N. Maple Rd.

(734) 728-4610

5

SHARINGAnn Arbor has several organizations and opportunities that are part of

what’s known as the sharing, peer, or collaborative economy. This sector

includes housing and food co-ops, farmers’ and artisan markets, hacker

and maker spaces, bike kitchens, tool libraries, and time banks, to name

a few. Making use of shared resources—whether it’s time, talent, or

tangible assets—not only reduces our collective environmental impact,

but also builds community and keeps more money in the local economy.

Below are a number of ways to plug into the local sharing economy. For a

complete list, visit www.a2share.org.

A2rCreditsA community organization working

to create democratically controlled

local currency for the Ann Arbor area

www.facebook.com/A2rcredits

A2TimeBankAllows members to “buy” and

“sell” skills using their own time

and talents as currency

www.a2timebank.org

All Hands ActiveThe AHA! Shop is a makerspace in

downtown Ann Arbor.

www.allhandsactive.com

Ann Arbor District LibraryLibraries are the original sharing

platform! Ours boasts not just

books, music, and movies, but also

art, musical instruments, tools,

telescopes, energy and air quality

meters, and much more.

www.aadl.org

Ann Arbor Free SkoolAn all-volunteer nonhierarchical

collective working to create free

classes, workshops, and skillshares

in and around Ann Arbor

annarborfreeskool.blogspot.com

Ann Arbor ReskillingA community group that aims to

help people learn skills for resilient,

low-energy living

www.a2reskilling.com

Ann Arbor SOUPA crowdfunding dinner celebrat-

ing creative projects in Ann Arbor

www.annarborsoup.com

Inter-Cooperative Council Student housing governed by co-

operative practices such as shared

work, democratic decision-making,

and pooling of resources

www.icc.coop

MHacksThe nation’s largest student-run

hackathon, where students from

all over the country come together

to build software applications and

hardware devices

www.mhacks.org

Project Grow Community GardensProvides Ann Arbor area residents

with the resources to grow their

own fresh, organic food

www.projectgrowgardens.org

Selma CaféA monthly all-volunteer local foods

breakfast served in Sunward Co-

housing’s common house kitchen

www.selmacafe.org

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6 L E A R N M O R E AT W W W. S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y. U M I C H . E D U

RESTAURANTS AND CAFÉS

These local eateries support local and/or sustainable food practices.

Help support a greener marketplace by supporting businesses that

“walk the talk”.

KEY

t

Vegetarian Options

s Vegan Options

n Locally Sourced

l Organic Purchasing

$ Less than $10/meal

$$ $10–$20/meal

$$$ More than $20/meal

t s n l $$

Arbor Brewing Company114 E. Washington St.

(734) 213-1393 www.arborbrewing.com

t s n l $$

Babo403 E. Washington St.

(734) 997-8495

www.baboannarbor.com

t s n $

Beanster’s Michigan League (734) 764-3586AND

Pierpont Commons (734) 763-6673www.uunions.umich.edu/ pierpont/food/restaurants/ beansters

t s n $

Bert’s Café Shapiro Undergraduate Library (734) 647-6237 www.uunions.umich.edu/berts

s n $

Big City Small World Bakery500 Miller Ave. (734) 668-7688

t s n l $

Café Verde216 N. Fourth Ave.

(734) 994-9174

www.peoplesfood.coop/store/cafe.php

t s n $$

Cardamom1739 Plymouth Rd. (734) 662-2877 www.cardamoma2.com

t s n l $$

EAT1906 Packard St.

(734) 213-7011 www.eatannarbor.com

t s l $

Earthen Jar Vegetarian Cuisine311 S. Fifth Ave. (734) 327-9464 www.earthenjar.com

t n l $

Espresso Royale214 S. Main St.(734) 668-1838AND

324 State St.(734) 662-2770AND

1101 S. University St.(734) 327-0740www.espressoroyale.com

t s n $

Fireside CafePierpont Commonswww.uunions.umich.edu/pierpont/food/

t n $

Frita Batidos117 W. Washington St.

(734) 761-2882

www.fritabatidos.com

t s n $

Glassbox Coffee & Juice1335 S. University Ave. AND

3010 Washtenaw Ave. (734) 276-1918www.glassboxcoffee.com

t s n l $

Glass House CaféPalmer Commons (734) 647-3777 www.glasshousecafe.net

7L E A R N M O R E AT W W W. S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y. U M I C H . E D U

t s n l $$$

Grange Kitchen & Bar118 W. Liberty St.

(734) 995-2107

www.grangekitchenandbar.com t s n $

Hut-K3022 Packard Rd. (734) 786-8312Also at Mark’s Carts!211 W. Washington St. www.hut-k.com

t s n l $

Jazzy Veggie108 S. Main St.

(734) 222-0203

www.jazzyveggie.com

t s n l $$

Jolly Pumpkin311 S. Main St.

(734) 913-2730

www.jollypumpkin.com

t s $

Jerusalem Garden307 S. Fifth Ave.

(734) 995-5060

www.jerusalemgarden.net

s n l $

The Lunch Room407 N. Fifth Ave.

(734) 224-8859

www.thelunchrooma2.tumblr.com

t s n l $

Mark’s Carts211 W. Washington St. www.markscartsannarbor.com

t s n $

Mujo’s Duderstadt Center(734) 615-4325www.uunions.umich.edu/pierpont/food/restaurants/mujo

t s n l $$$

Ravens Club207 S. Main St.

(734) 214-0400

www.theravensclub.com

t s $

Revive619 E. University St.

(734) 332-3366

www.revive-replenish.com

t s n l $$

Sava’s216 S. State St.

(734) 623-2233

www.savasrestaurant.com

t s l $$

Seva Restaurant2541 Jackson Ave.

(734) 662-1111

www.sevarestaurant.com

t s n l $$

Silvio’s Organic Pizza715 N. University St.

(734) 214-6666

www.silviosorganicpizza.com

t s $$$

Zingerman’s Deli422 Detroit St. (734) 663-DELI (3354) www.zingermansdeli.com

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GROCERS

These local grocers provide organic, bulk, or locally-grown options.

Ann Arbor Farmer’s Market315 Detroit St.

(734) 794-6255

www.a2gov.org/market

May–DecemberSaturdays & Wednesdays:

7 am–3 pm

June–OctoberWednesday Evening Market,

4 pm–8 pm

January–AprilSaturdays, 8 am–3 pm

Arbor Farms Market2103 W. Stadium Blvd.

(734) 996-8111

www.arborfarms.com

Cobblestone Farm Market 2781 Packard Rd.

(734) 794-6230

www.cobblestonefarmmarket.org

May-NovemberTuesdays 4–7 pm

Babo Market403 E. Washington St.

(734) 997-8495

www.baboannarbor.com

By the Pound615 S. Main St.

(734) 665-8884

Lucky’s Market Coming 20151919 S. Industrial Hwy.

(303) 530-0782

www.luckysmarket.com

MFarmers’ MarketHeld on Central and North

campuses in the fall. See

dates and locations at www.

sustainability.umich.edu/events.

People’s Food Co-op216 N. Fourth Ave.

(734) 994-9174

www.peoplesfood.coop

Plum MarketMaple Village Plaza

375 N. Maple Rd.

(734) 827-5000

www.plummarket.com

The Produce Station1629 S. State St.

(734) 663-7848

www.producestation.com

Replenish619 E. University St.

(734) 332-3355

www.revive-replenish.com

Sparrow Market415 N. Fifth Ave, 1st Floor

(734) 761-8175

www.sparrowmarket.com

Trader Joe’s2398 E. Stadium Blvd.

(734) 975-2455

www.traderjoes.com

U-go’sMichigan Union, Michigan League,

Pierpont Commons

www.uunions.umich.edu/ugos

Whole Foods Market990 W. Eisenhower Pkwy.

(734) 997-7500AND

3135 Washtenaw Ave.

(734) 975-4500

www.wholefoodsmarket.com

Search the guide at www.realtimefarms.com (a local start-up!) for other places to eat or buy locally sourced foods.

BGreen Today2111 Packard St.

(734) 214-3000

www.bgreentoday.com

Crazy Wisdom114 S Main St.

(734) 665-2757

www.crazywisdom.net

Downtown Home and Garden 210 S. Ashley St.

(734) 662-8122

www.downtownhomeandgarden.

com

Himalayan Bazaar218 S. Main St.

(734) 997-7229

www.thehimalayanbazaar.com

Kerrytown Market & Shops415 N. Fifth Ave.

(734) 662-5008

www.kerrytown.com

Maggie’s Organics Online Store, based in Ann ArborProducts can also be found at

retailers like People’s Food Co-op

and Whole Foods!

www.maggiesorganics.com

Middle Earth Gifts1209 S. University St.

(734) 769-1488

www.middleearthgifts.com

Perpetua Boutique Organique209 S. Fourth Ave, Suite 1A

(734) 222-9270

www.perpetuaboutique.com

Sunday Artisan Market315 Detroit St.

(734) 913-9622

www.artisanmarket.org

April–DecemberSundays, 11 am–4 pm

Ten Thousand Villages303 S. Main St.

(734) 332-1270

www.annarbor.tenthousand

villages.com

Want more? Check out

http://thinklocalfirst.net for a listing

of unique Ann Arbor businesses to

support!

SHOPS

Find environmentally and socially responsible goods at these local retailers.

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10 L E A R N M O R E AT W W W. S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y. U M I C H . E D U

ACTIVITIES & RECREATION

Here’s a list of just some of the

many recreational opportunities

in the Ann Arbor area, including

outdoor outfitters and local parks.

OUTDOOR OUTFITTERSArgo Canoe Livery 1055 Longshore Dr.

(734) 794-6241

www.a2gov.org/canoe

Offers kayak and canoe rentals. Take a trip down the Argo Cascades on the Huron River with a rental or your own tube, kayak, or canoe.

Bivouac Ann Arbor Gear Rentals336 S. State St.

(734) 761-6207

www.bivouacannarbor.com

Outdoor equipment retailers and gear rental

Gallup Canoe Livery3000 Fuller Rd.

(734) 794-6240

www.a2gov.org/canoe

Offers canoe, kayak, paddleboat, and rowboat rentals and is surrounded by park trails and playgrounds

Moosejaw327 S. Main St.

(734) 769-1590

www.moosejaw.com

Outdoor gear and equipment

11L E A R N M O R E AT W W W. S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y. U M I C H . E D U

MRockIntramural Sports Building

606 E. Hoover Ave.

(734) 764-7625

www.recsports.umich.edu/

outdooradv/climbing

The Outdoor Adventures climbing wall. Lots of bouldering and rock-climbing gear included in the $5 fee.

Planet Rock Climbing Gym82 Aprill Dr.

(734) 827-2680

www.planet-rock.com

Indoor climbing wall for all skill levels with gear available to rent

Outdoor Adventures336 Hill St.

(734) 764-3967 www.recsports.umich.edu/outdooradv

University of Michigan Department of Recreational Sports outdoor trips and gear rental program

REI970 W. Eisenhower Pkwy.

(734) 827-1938www.rei.com

Outdoor gear and equipment for rental or purchase

PARKSMatthaei Botanical GardensThe Gardens are home to a set of fun trail loops, the U-M Campus Farm, and plenty of community activities. 1800 N. Dixboro Rd.

(734) 647-7600

www.mbgna.umich.edu

Nichols Arboretum Escape campus (without going too far) in U-M’s own park on the Huron River. James D. Reader Center

1610 Washington Hts.

(734) 647-7600

www.mbgna.umich.edu

Leslie Science & Nature CenterBoasts about 50 acres of parkland, a critter house, raptor enclosures, and many opportunities for volunteering 1831 Traver Rd.

(734) 997-1553

www.lesliesnc.org

Huron-Clinton MetroParkswww.metroparks.com

A regional parks system in Metro Park with 13 parks totaling 24,000 acres with fishing, canoeing, hiking trails and more

Pinckney Recreation AreaA nearby state park with lakes, trails, and campgrounds 8555 Silver Hill Rd.

Pinckney, MI 48169

(734) 426-4913

www.dnr.state.mi.us/parksandtrails

Waterloo Recreation Area16345 McClure Rd. Chelsea, MI 48118

(734) 475-8307

www.dnr.state.mi.us/parksandtrails

Another great nearby state park

City of Ann Arbor ParksA2 is home to 157 city parks. Find park locations and features atwww.a2gov.org/parks

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climate action

U-M GOALS

Reduce greenhouse gas emissions 25%(from 2006 levels) by 2025.

Decrease carbon intensity of passenger trips on U-M transportation options 30%

(from 2006 levels) by 2025.

L E A R N M O R E AT W W W. S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y. U M I C H . E D U 13

SIMPLE WAYS TO CONSERVE ENERGY●

• Unplug all electrical appliances and chargers when not in use. Even when electronics, chargers, and appliances are switched off or

not in use, they can still draw “vampire” power.

• Keep your fridge stocked. Refrigerators and freezers are most

efficient when they are full.

• Dress appropriately for the season. Wearing your favorite sweater

in cooler weather means you won’t have to turn up the thermostat.

• Keep thermostats set at 68º during cold months and 76º during warm seasons.

• Remember to close windows when heating or cooling systems are on.

• During winter days, open blinds and curtains to allow sunlight in

for solar heat gain. Close up in the evening to keep in the warmth.

• Avoid the use of portable electric space heaters, which are notorious

“energy hogs.”

• Use hot water sparingly. Wash clothes in cold water.

• Dim room lights when working on a computer or use desk lamps

(“task lighting”) to avoid turning up the brightness level on the monitor.

• Whetheryourentorown,check out www.a2energy.org for more

energy conservation tips for home.

U-M RESOURCE: Regional Energy Managers work across campus to

improve energy efficiency. If you are in a U-M building and there is a

heating/cooling, lighting, or other energy issue email energyconservation

@umich.edu. You can also see your building’s utility usage at

www.energymanagement.umich.edu/buildings.

ENERGY-SMART COMPUTING

• Turn your computer off at night or when you are away.

• Do not plug in your printer until you are ready to print. Printers

consume energy even while they are idling. Better yet, use shared

printers in Community Learning Centers or U-M computing sites.

• Take advantage of power-efficiency settings in system preferences.

Make sure your computer goes to sleep when not used for more

than 15 minutes (even less is better!).

L E A R N M O R E AT W W W. S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y. U M I C H . E D U14

• Think before you print! Use a smaller

font, decrease line spacing, choose

narrower margins, and use double-sided

printing. If you can, read and review on

the screen instead of printing.

• Always buy and use recycled-content paper. Look for paper with 50-100%

post-consumer waste that is non-chlo-

rine bleached.

• Buy vegetable or non-petroleum-based inks. These printer inks are made from

renewable resources, require fewer

hazardous solvents, and, in many cases,

produce brighter, cleaner colors.

• Recycle your printer cartridges. U-M

buildings can contact Mikan Corporation

at (734) 944-9447. They will provide

collection boxes and pick them up from

your building when filled.

U-M RESOURCE: Check out our

Sustainable Computing site at

sustainablecomputing.umich.edu for more

information and how-to’s on saving energy

when computing. Also check out the Print

Smart Program for your workplace to save

on printing costs and resources at finance.

umich.edu/procurement/printsmart.

TRANSPORTATION

BY FOOTThe campus area is completely accessible

for walking. The State Street and South

University areas border Central Campus and

are full of restaurants and shops. On North

Campus, there are plenty of footpaths (keep

an eye out for deer!).

BY BIKEIn March 2012, U-M was designated as a

Bicycle Friendly University by the League of

American Bicyclists. Bicycling is an easy al-

ternative to walking (just be sure to remem-

ber your helmet!), with bike parking available

near all class buildings and along many side-

walks. A map of Ann Arbor bike paths can be

found at www.a2gov.org/bike and U-M bike

maps at www.pts.umich.edu/maps.

ARBORBIKE: *NEW* You can check out and

return a bike at any of the fourteen stations

located on campus and downtown through

Ann Arbor’s bikeshare program. Daily, week-

ly, or annual memberships available. www.

arborbike.org.

PLANET BLUE BIKE RENTAL PROGRAM: Through Outdoor Adventures, part of U-M’s

Department of Recreational Sports, you can

rent a “Blue Bike” for a day, a weekend, or

even a full semester. 336 Hill St. (734) 764-

3967 http://recsports.umich.edu/bluebikes;

Email: outdooradventures@gmail.com.

In addition to bike rental, there are several

supporting bicycle amenities on campus,

including two public air pump stations (North

Quad and Pierpont Commons), and a “fix it”

station near the Central Campus Transit Cen-

ter where cyclists can access several tools

for quick fixes. Cyclists also have the option

of renting a space in the enclosed bike-stor-

age facility located on the south side of the

Thompson Street parking structure. The se-

cured facility contains 50 spaces for bicycles

and an air compressor.

BY BUSBLUE BUS LINE: The fleet of Michigan buses

now includes multiple hybrid buses, so you

can feel even better about using this mode

of public transportation. Hitch a free ride to

any of our Ann Arbor campuses, including

north, central, south, and medical. Details at

www.pts.umich.edu. NOTE: Want to know

exactly when your bus is coming? Magic Bus

provides a real-time view of each Michigan

bus at www.mbus.pts.umich.edu.

wattage wisdom

Most electronics still use power even when turned off. Up to 10 percent of an electricity bill is sucked up by electronics that have been turned

off! Unplug whatever you are not using to save money

and energy.

15L E A R N M O R E AT W W W. S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y. U M I C H . E D U

THE ANN ARBOR AREA TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (AAATA): The Ride: This bus sys-

tem travels throughout the City of Ann Arbor

and to Ypsilanti. With a U-M ID you can ride

FREE. Pick up a route schedule and guide on

the bus, or visit www.theride.org.

THE DETROIT CONNECTOR: *NEW*

U-M’s Detroit Center sponsors a free bus

for MCard holders and their guests to

and from Ann Arbor and Detroit. For

schedules and to reserve your spot go to

www.detroitcenter.umich.edu/mdcc.

GREYHOUND: The Ann Arbor Greyhound

station is located downtown at 116 W Huron

St. and provides busing services nationwide.

Greyhound’s Student Advantage Card can

save you 20% off standard fares. More infor-

mation at www.greyhound.com.

MEGABUS: Megabus is a low-cost,

express bus service offering trips to

Chicago. The Ann Arbor stop is located at

2694 S. State St. Find schedules and rates

at www.megabus.com.

AIRRIDE: A great option for getting to the

Detroit Metro Airport is AirRide, a partner-

ship between The Ride and the Michigan

Flyer (also provides transportation to East

Lansing).

Make a

reservation, or

just walk on. More

information can be found on the AirRide

website at: www.myairride.com.

BY TRAINAMTRAK: Travel from Ann Arbor toward

Chicago or Detroit with the Amtrak train.

Details and tickets at www.amtrak.com.

BY CARCARPOOL: When traveling outside of Ann

Arbor for an event or trip, plan to carpool and

take the most fuel- efficient car available to

you. GreenRide Connect, an online rideshare

application, can help match you with people

whose destinations are similar and can be

accessed at www.isharearide.org/u-m. U-M

also supports a vanpool program for com-

muting faculty and staff.

ZIPCAR: If you need a car temporarily for

an errand or excursion and are at least 18,

you can rent a Zipcar. Your low reservation

rate includes gas & insurance. U-M sign

up, including specific membership and

reservation rates, can be found at

www.zipcar.com/umich.

road rageAccording to the U.S. Department

of Transportation, about 140 million motor vehicles in the U.S. are driven

nearly 4 billion miles per day, using more than 200 million

gallons of gasoline.

16 L E A R N M O R E AT W W W. S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y. U M I C H . E D U

waste prevention

U-M GOALReduce waste sent to landfills by 40%

(from 2006 levels) by 2025through recycling, reducing, reusing,

and composting.

L E A R N M O R E AT W W W. S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y. U M I C H . E D U 17

1. REDUCE FIRST

• Buy only what you need and use all of what you buy.

• Choose products with minimal packaging. No packaging, or

reusable, is best. If not, go for packaging that can be readily recycled

and, even better, is made from recycled material.

• Bepreparedandgetinthehabitofcarryingareusable travel mug, water bottle, fork, and shopping bag.

• Ask for electronic receipts and statements. If just 20% of

Americans switched to electronic bill receipt and payment, we could

save almost 2 million trees and 100 million gallons of gasoline a year.

U-M RESOURCE: Procurement Services provides green purchasing guide-

lines and a list of green products and suppliers through their “Make Blue

Green” initiative for U-M departments.

2. REUSE• Give away what you no longer want or use; a friend can probably

put the item to good use. Or check out the many reuse outlets on

page 4. You can also give items away for free by posting them online

at www.freecycle.org, or buy and sell your unwanted products on

www.craigslist.org.

• Whenyouneedtopurchasesomething,check yard sales, charitable outlets, and resale stores first.

• Ifyouhavetousedisposables(likeplasticcups,utensils,and

food storage bags) don’t throw them away! Wash and reuse disposables.

• Repair items when they break instead of replacing them.

• Hold a yard sale and ask your neighbors to join in too.

• Insteadofusingpapertowelsforcleaning,invest in a few good dishcloths.

U-M RESOURCE: U-M departments & units can use MBay, an open

internal online forum, to coordinate the trading of free items between

departments or units. Property Disposition handles the SALE of any

surplus U-M supplies (computers, office furniture, etc.).

https://www31.med.umich.edu/hos/mbay/index.cfm.

L E A R N M O R E AT W W W. S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y. U M I C H . E D U18

3. RECYCLE

Only after reducing and/or reusing your goods do you recycle what is left

over! Fortunately, U-M makes it extremely easy to recycle, with recy-

cling bins available throughout the Ann Arbor campus—including every

residence hall room! See the opposite page for what can go in the bin.

Check www.recycle.umich.edu for how to recycle other items such as

batteries, Styrofoam, DVDs, and more. If you live in U-M Housing, ask at

your Community Center for additional options. Be careful NOT to throw trash, including paper coffee cups, in the designated recycling bins.

HOW ABOUT COMPOSTING? Check www.recycle.umich.edu/grounds/recycle/composting

for info on how to compost at your event. U-M’s Ross School of

Business currently provides composting in their buildings. The City of

Ann Arbor provides seasonal composting for yard and food waste to

residents. Check out www.a2gov.org/compost.

can doEnergy saved from one recycled aluminum can could operate a TV set

for three hours.

call for canteens!If every U-M freshman used the reusable Planet Blue water bottle

they receive, we’d stop nearly one million plastic bottles

from going to a landfill every year!

rags to richesDuring move-out week 2014, more than 10 tons of clothing,

household goods, bedding, food, and other items were collected

and donated to local non-profit organizations.

L E A R N M O R E AT W W W. S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y. U M I C H . E D U 19

and muchmore!

WHAT CAN YOU RECYCLE?Here’s a sampling of what can go in your recycling bin.

WWW.RECYCLE.UMICH.EDUVisit the Waste Reduction and Recycling Office’s webpage for more information.

Please remember paper coffee cups, plastic bags, straws, and lids are not recyclable at the University of Michigan.

20 L E A R N M O R E AT W W W. S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y. U M I C H . E D U

U-M GOAL

Protect Huron River quality by reducing runoff from impervious surfaces and reducing the volume

of land management chemicals on campus by 40% (from 2006 levels) by 2025.

Purchase 20% of U-M food in accordance with U-M Sustainable Food Purchasing

Guidelines by 2025.

healthy environments

L E A R N M O R E AT W W W. S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y. U M I C H . E D U 21

healthy environments

WATER CONSERVATION • Use reusable water bottles instead of plastic. It takes three to five liters of water

to manufacture a single 1-liter plastic disposable bottle. When refilling your reusable water bottle, choose one of the more than 100 Refill Stations on campus.

• Shorten your shower by a minute or two per day, and you’ll save up to 150 gallons of water per month.

• Turn off the water while you brush your teeth, wash your hands, and shave.

• Use a dishwasher if you have one! They use significantly less water than washing dishes by hand. Only run when full and on cool water settings.

WATER QUALITY AND STORMWATERUnlike wastewater, which is treated at a wastewater treat-ment plant, stormwater receives no treatment before being discharged to surface waters. Learn more at www.oseh.umich.edu/environment/storm.shtml. You can do your part to protect our watershed by following the practices below:

• Do NOT dump waste in storm drains! They flow directly to the Huron River. Make sure no litter (such as plastic party cups) or hazardous liquids (such as oils or soapy water), fertilizers, or other debris enters a storm drain.

• Maintain your car. Fix any oil, antifreeze, transmission fluid, or brake fluid leaks immediately to keep these toxic liquids out of our waterways. Inquire at your automotive shop about proper disposal methods.

• Practice sustainable lawn maintenance by watering less, growing native plants, using phosphorus-free fertilizers, allowing buffer zones between waterways and maintained lawns, and avoiding the use of fertilizers and pesticides.

• Don’t flush your extra medications! When drugs go down the drain, traces of the flushed chemicals can reach our waterways even after the wastewater treatment process. Check out www.dontflushdrugs.com for more information and proper disposal methods.

• Usegreencleanersandpersonalcareproducts. Similarly, chemicals in household cleaners and personal care products end up in our waterways. Use more environ-mentally friendly options. Never pour excess household cleaners or oil-based paints down the drain.

LOCAL AND SUSTAINABLE FOOD • Eat Organic! Organic farms don’t use harmful conventional pesticides.

• Eat Local! Know your farmer, ask them about their practices, and visit local farms. Communities benefit economically from small farms, and you get fresher food!

• Eat in Season. The average U.S. carrot travels 1,838 miles from where it is grown to where it reaches your plate. To find out what is in season in Michigan, check out NRDC’s site: www.simplesteps.org/eat-local/state/michigan.

• Eat More Veggies. It takes 110 gallons of water to produce a quarter-pound beef patty, while producing one apple takes only 18 gallons.

• Grow Your Own. According to the USDA, the average home gardener can grow $25 worth of produce for every dollar spent on supplies.

• Bulk up. Buy nonperishable food (e.g. beans, grains, flour) in bulk. Bring your own containers and you will save money and reduce packaging waste!

L E A R N M O R E AT W W W. S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y. U M I C H . E D U

Become part of the sustainability solution by getting involved in Planet Blue here

at the University! Here are some of the many ways you can live on Planet Blue at U-M.

community awareness

L E A R N M O R E AT W W W. S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y. U M I C H . E D U 23

BECOME A PLANET BLUE AMBASSADORAny faculty, staff, or student who completes the online

Planet Blue Ambassador training program can become certified

and engaged in campus sustainability opportunities. Learn more

at www.sustainability.umich.edu/pba.

TAKE A SUSTAINABILITY COURSECourses with sustainability content

or a sustainability focus are available

in most majors. Check out the

sustainability course database at

graham.umich.edu/course-search.

Staff can submit campus sustain-

ability research or project ideas

to students in courses such as

ENVIRON 211: Social Sciences &

Environmental Problems and ENVIRON 391: Sustainability &

the Campus (where this guide was originally developed!).

CERTIFY YOUR WORKPLACEStaff and faculty can pursue a Sustainable Workplace Certification

through the Office of Campus Sustainability. Employees who work in a

lab should also look into the Sustainable Lab Recognition Program. Start

at www.ocs.umich.edu.

BECOME A PLANET BLUE STUDENT LEADER IN U-M HOUSINGApply to this leadership training program and serve as an “eco rep” in

your University Housing community. As a Student Leader, you’ll connect

students living in campus housing with opportunities and resources

to live more sustainably. Visit www.sustainability.umich.edu/pbsl. Any

Housing student can also certify their

dorm room as a Planet Blue Room at

sustainability.umich.edu/planet-blue-room.

L E A R N M O R E AT W W W. S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y. U M I C H . E D U24

DECLARE A MINOR IN SUSTAINABILITY The University of Michigan offers a wide range of academic programs

focused on the environment and sustainability, and recently added a

Sustainability Minor offered through the Program in the Environment

(PitE). So, whatever your major, if you have a passion for protecting the

planet, check it out at www.lsa.umich.edu/pite. Brand new this year, PitE

is also offering an interdisciplinary minor in sustainable food systems,

with courses that address issues of food production, consumption, and

policy in relation to human health, equity, and the environment.

EXPLORE THE CAMPUS SUSTAINABILITY MAPThe Campus Sustainability Map is a great tool for learning more about

the sustainability initiatives happening all around you. Check it out at

www.ocs.umich.edu/map.

BECOME A SUSTAINABILITY SCHOLARCurrent sophomores interested in joining a small cohort of sustainabil-

ity-focused peers may apply to be part of the Graham Sustainability

Institute’s Sustainability Scholars Program. Accepted students pursue a

9-credit series of interdisciplinary field-based courses on sustainability

and participate in a variety of leadership and cohort-building activities.

Please visit www.graham.umich.edu/learning/undergraduate-scholars.

JOIN A STUDENT GROUPTo learn about student groups promoting environmental sustainability,

visit www.sustainability.umich.edu/student-life. Working closely with

U-M administration and in partnership with Central Student Government,

the Student Sustainability Initiative (SSI) brings together student

groups working on sustainability with regular roundtables.

sustainability.umich.edu/ssi; Email: ssi-board@umich.edu.

Some of the many student orgs are:

• Environmental Action (EnAct) environmental outreach and

education

• Central Student Government University Sustainability Commission

• Kayak Club

• Kill-a-Watt annual energy-saving competition

• Michigan Birders

• Michigan Sailing Club

• Michigan Student-Athletes for Sustainability (M-SAS)

L E A R N M O R E AT W W W. S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y. U M I C H . E D U 25

• University of Michigan Sustainable Foods Program (UMSFP)

• BLUElab real-world engineering projects

• A2Share promoting the sharing economy

• Solar Car Team

• Student Food Co. sells fresh produce on campus

• Students for Clean Energy

For more information, check out these organizations and more at https://

maizepages.umich.edu/ or at events such as Festifall and Go North! Fest.

VOLUNTEER ON CAMPUS OR IN THE COMMUNITYIf you’re interested in a more hands-on approach to getting involved, con-

sider rolling up your sleeves for one of the campus groups or community

non-profits outlined below.

• The Ginsberg Center provides a network of service-learning organi-

zations to bring about social change. www.ginsberg.umich.edu.

• Circle K International provides various community service opportunities

for helping the environment and those in need. www.umcirclek.org.

• Cultivating Community educates students about sustainable food

systems through hands-on organic gardening and community out-

reach. www.lsa.umich.edu/mbg/learn/cc;

• The Detroit Partnership works on various sustainability projects

in the City of Detroit. www.thedp.org.

• Ecology Center works for clean energy production, healthy

communities, environmental justice, and a sustainable future.

www.ecocenter.org

• Food Gatherers is a local non-profit that exists to alleviate hunger and

eliminate its causes in Washtenaw County. www.foodgatherers.org

• GIVE365 is the City of Ann Arbor’s volunteer program, including op-

portunities at the Farmer’s Market and parks. www.a2gov.org/volunteer.

• Growing Hope’s work includes providing start-up gardening as-

sistance, teaching classes and workshops, and developing training

materials. www.growinghope.net

• The Huron River Watershed Council inspires attitudes, behaviors,

and economies that protect, rehabilitate, and sustain the ecological and

cultural communities of the Huron River ecosystem. www.hrwc.org

• The Huron Valley Sierra Club is a non- profit organization dedicated

to helping people explore, enjoy, and protect the wild places of the

earth. www.michigan.sierraclub.org/huron

• The Michigan League of Conservation Voters is non-partisan with

priorities to secure adequate state funding for environmental protec-

tion and conservation. www.michiganlcv.org

• The National Wildlife Federation’s Great Lakes Regional

Center works to protect wildlife, restore natural habitats and

ecosystems, and educate the public to adopt similar practices.

www.nwf.org/Great-Lakes.aspx

LEARN MORE ... STAY CONNECTED… GET INVOLVED!

For more information and to stay up to date on sustainable news

and events, visit the Planet Blue website at sustainability.umich.edu.

This comprehensive website outlines multiple sustainability-focused

research, education, and operations efforts at the University. It

also includes a searchable database of hundreds of sustainability

courses offered at U-M.

facebook.com/UMSustainability

twitter.com/UMPlanetBlue

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