Sustainability at Mines

The mission of the Colorado School of Mines is education and research in engineering and science to solve the world’s challenges related to the earth, energy, and environment.

Academics and Research

Learn about how Mines is working toward a greener future through cutting-edge research and novel curricula.

Operations

Learn about how Mines is working to be a steward of the environment through campus-wide initiatives and green operations.

Get Involved

Learn how Mines is working to build a sustainable campus culture that will help students live in a more environmentally-friendly way.

Campus Initiatives

Learn what initiatives Mines is pledging to in order to champion a more sustainable future for the campus.

Sustainability News

Mines Earth Fair 2020

Join Mines Sustainability and the Mines Green Team for a virtual Earth Fair 2020!

April 22nd, 2020 marks the 50th anniversary of Earth Day! And, although we must all stay home during this trying time, we can still show our support for the Earth by educating ourselves on what Earth Day has stood for and where it’s going!

We hope you’ll join us as we take time to learn, discuss, and plan for a more sustainable future!

Mines Solar Challenge

Put your imagination, passion and knowledge to use creating a solar idea with the potential to be installed on campus! Up to three winners will be chosen during Earth Week to win a prize up to $500. Individual and group submissions are welcome.

See here for more details!

Mines 2019 Energy & Sustainability Report

Over the past year, Mines Sustainability and McKinstry have been hard at work making Mines a more sustainable place to learn and live!

To see what has been accomplished and where Mines is looking to go next, check out the Mines 2019 Energy & Sustainability Report! In this report, you’ll find information ranging from new sustainable construction to waste diversion metrics to sustainable research happening right here on campus. Check it out!

Shut the Sash!

In Colorado, a single open fume hood can consume as much energy as one home! The high energy use is due to fresh, conditioned air constantly being exhausted through them to the outdoors. An easy way to reduce the energy consumption of a fume hood is to SHUT THE SASH when not in use.

More details.

A Word From the President

At Mines, our sustainability efforts are focused in three main areas: teaching, research, and facilities. Students from nearly every discipline have opportunities to take courses that relate environmental issues to society, culture, engineering, and applied sciences.

Mines faculty are engaged in a broad spectrum of sustainability-related research projects, ranging from water purification research to the development of photovoltaic technologies.

Our facilities team is changing the way our campus runs and operates, emphasizing efficiency and cost-savings, in addition to conservation.