Sustainability

The sustainability minor will launch in the fall of 2011. This multi-disciplinary minor will provide a broad exploration of the topic and include faculty from art, biology, chemistry, and economics. Here’s what the proposed minor includes:

TWO CORE COURSES

  • Interdisciplinary introductory course
  • A 400-level interdisciplinary project course

FOUR ELECTIVES—ONE FROM EACH OF THE FOLLOWING CLUSTERS:

  • Ethics, Culture, and Human Behavior
  • Economics and Policy
  • Production Systems and the Built Environment
  • Ecology and Environmental Stewardship

COMMUNITY SERVICE
 

The Principia College Center for Sustainability

Officially launched in spring of 2009, the Center has a twofold mission: “to promote and coordinate campus greening efforts” and “to inspire Principia’s students, faculty, and staff to become more responsible local and global environmental citizens.” Whenever possible, the Center treats its projects as teachable moments, reflecting the College’s commitment to experiential learning. For example, plans are in place for the Center’s office to be a test site for sustainable design ideas ranging from LED lights to furniture made from renewable sources.

The Center also works with campus partners (such as Facilities and Dining Services) to assess Principia’s environmental performance and incorporate sustainability into its planning process. In addition, current students are active both in the Center and on the Sustainability Council, which is the Center’s governing board.