St. John's University has demonstrated its unwavering dedication to sustainability, eco-friendliness, and food security through a series of impactful events held on and off its Queens, New York campus in October. From volunteer work to conservation campaigns, the university community has embraced its Vincentian heritage and taken tangible steps to create a more sustainable and equitable world.

Empowering Change: St. John's University's Sustainability Initiatives

Fostering a Culture of Sustainability

At St. John's University, sustainability is not just a buzzword, but a core tenet that permeates every aspect of campus life. The university's commitment to environmental stewardship is evident in the numerous initiatives and programs that engage students, faculty, and staff in meaningful ways. From the student-managed Organic Garden to the "Cup Conscious" campaign, the university community is actively working to reduce its carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices.Professor April M. Merenda, who teaches a course in sustainability and ecotourism, emphasizes the importance of incorporating sustainability into the classroom and campus experience. "Our students receive an in-depth understanding of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, which carry an urgent call for action by all. What better way to learn together what can be done to promote sustainability?" she says, highlighting the university's holistic approach to sustainability education.

Driving Renewable Energy Initiatives

St. John's University's dedication to sustainability extends beyond the classroom and into the physical infrastructure of the campus. The recently completed multimillion-dollar green-energy initiative has resulted in significant energy savings, with improvements such as enhanced pipe insulation, boiler upgrades, and classroom redesigns. The university's commitment to renewable energy is further exemplified by the St. Vincent Health Sciences Center, the first building on campus to operate entirely on renewable energy."It is great for the University," says Peter Barker, Associate Director of Environmental and Energy Conservation. "It's a crown jewel for the campus." The university's efforts have not gone unnoticed, as The Princeton Review has recognized St. John's as one of the nation's most environmentally responsible colleges.

Fostering a Greener Campus

Sustainability at St. John's University extends beyond energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives. The university's 65-tree arboretum, located on the western end of the campus, serves as a natural carbon sink, reducing the amount of carbon released into the atmosphere. Additionally, the university's regular sustainability efforts include a strong commitment to composting, energy management, and recycling.These initiatives not only contribute to a greener campus but also serve as a model for the broader community. As McKenzie Crissman, a master's student in Environmental Sustainability and Decision Making, explains, "Sustainability is important because it can bring awareness on campus to climate issues and social justice issues that people might not see in their day-to-day lives."

Empowering Student Engagement

St. John's University's commitment to sustainability is further reflected in the active engagement of its student body. From the Organic Garden to the "Cup Conscious" initiative, students are at the forefront of the university's sustainability efforts. In May, students cleaning out their residence hall rooms collected over 2.5 metric tons of food, clothing, and household goods, which were then distributed to support students facing housing insecurity, the St. John's Bread & Life food pantry, and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Long Island.This student-led initiative demonstrates the university's ability to foster a culture of sustainability and social responsibility, empowering students to make a tangible difference in their community.

Addressing Food Security and Social Justice

Sustainability at St. John's University is not just about environmental conservation; it is also deeply rooted in the university's Vincentian heritage and its commitment to social justice. The Organic Garden, for example, not only produces organically grown vegetables for the university community but also donates surplus produce to the St. John's Bread & Life food pantry in Brooklyn, New York, supporting food-insecure families in the city.Lillian Broedel, a senior studying Global Development and Sustainability and an Ozanam Scholar, emphasizes the connection between sustainability and social justice. "St. John's Bread and Life supports the vision of St. Vincent de Paul," she says. "It reminds us that we should always be aware of the less fortunate. That includes those impacted by climate change, which has been shown to have a direct relationship with human health."By addressing food security and social justice through its sustainability initiatives, St. John's University is demonstrating its holistic approach to creating a more equitable and sustainable future.