#greencampus

Minnesota State University, Mankato has many things that make it a great campus. It has a student organization for almost everything, intramural sports, help centers, an awesome student union, and an engaging faculty. However, one thing that doesn’t get as much recognition is how eco-friendly and green the campus is. A recent study by Minnesota State University, Mankato’s Environmental Committee shows that the University reduced its carbon footprint by 6.8 percent over a five-year period (from the academic year 2011-2012 through 2015-2016). That’s pretty awesome! The study attributed the decrease in the University’s carbon footprint to two reasons; the Public Buildings Enhanced Energy Efficiency Program and students walking more to campus instead of driving.

Some of the things that the University does to help reduce its carbon footprint are actually pretty fascinating! Trash from the residence communities on campus is sorted, processed, and turned into pellets that are burned to create energy for over 50,000 homes. Less than 2% of residence community trash ends up in landfills! There are also numerous water bottle fillers that help reduce how much plastic is being used. Water bottle fillers in the residence halls have already save over 20,000 plastic bottles each month. Of course, this can only keep happening if people use them, so use them! Motion sensing lights are also in use in the common areas of Crawford, Julia Sears, McElroy and Preska, as well in educational buildings.

Minnesota State University, Mankato is also a bee-friendly campus! There has been a lot of talk in the news recently about how the population of bees are diminishing. We all know the importance of bees, even though they might not be our favorite insects, and a recent project from the Zoology Club aims to make Minnesota State Mankato a sanctuary for bees. This is being done by limiting pesticides, introducing hives, creating gardens, and using bee-friendly landscapes. 

One of the cooler things that the University has, and something that bicyclists will appreciate, are bike pump and repair stands. These stands are equipped with air pumps and various bike tools to help with deflated tires and loose chains.

There are four locations on campus that have these bike stands:

1.      Armstrong Hall (southwest corner)

2.      Otto Rec (north entrance)

3.      Preska / Carkoski Commons

4.      Wissink Center (west side entrance)

For more information about the Environmental Committee and the Green Campus Initiative, visit: https://www.mnsu.edu/greencampus/

🏆 Proud Moment for GS University! 🌿

We are thrilled to share that GS Ayurveda Medical College & Hospital (under GS University, Hapur/Pilkhuwa) has been honored with the prestigious "Platinum Sustainable Campus Partner" Award!

The recognition was presented by the Research Heights Foundation (RHF) during the Sustainable Campus Impact Summit and Awards 2026.

This award is a testament to our continuous excellence in:

Environment Conservation & Green Campus Development

Energy & Water Conservation

Plastic-Free Campus Initiatives

Regular Plantation Drives by the Dravyaguna Department

5-Star Rated Green Campus Business Schools for Future MBA Entrepreneurs

Green campus means building an environment that supports sustainability, student well-being, and environmental learning.

Here’s what a green campus includes:

🌿 Renewable energy sources 💧 Water recycling & rainwater harvesting ♻ Waste management & recycling programs 🚲 Eco-friendly transportation on campus 🏫 Sustainable building designs 📚 Environmental awareness activities

Green campuses benefit students by promoting a healthier environment and enhancing their connection to nature. Students learn sustainability by doing — planting trees, composting, conserving energy, and participating in environmental clubs.

Green campuses also reduce energy consumption and utility costs and support community awareness about global climate issues.

Let’s come together to celebrate the beauty of our planet and renew our commitment to protect it for future generations.