Stanford University
EN-2: Student Orientation

Prior to arriving on campus, all incoming and transfer students are introduced to campus sustainability through a series of articles in New Student Orientation’s weekly e-newsletter. Articles include campus sustainability information and digital resources, such as the "Student Sustainable Living Guide” and “Sustainable Living Video." These resources provide a helpful overview of Stanford's sustainability programs and practical advice on how to save energy and water and reduce waste on campus. The guide and video include remarks from university leadership describing why Stanford considers sustainability to be a key component of the university’s mission and the overall Stanford experience. Blog posts from current students and student sustainability groups also offer the student body perspective.

Upon arriving to campus, volunteers stationed at the residence dumpster enclosures helped new residents sort their waste and offered quick information about the four-stream system on campus. A sustainability open house with representatives from Sustainable Stanford welcomed new students to learn about the diverse opportunities to engage with campus sustainability programs.

Partnerships with multiple student affairs organizations allow sustainability to be included in other campus events during New Student Orientation as well. Sustainability interns participate in the student activities’ informational panel. A tour of the new Central Energy Facility and the Stanford Recycling Center is offered to all incoming graduate students, and sustainability staff and student organizations have informational tables at New Graduate Student Orientation. Residential Living displays sustainability signage throughout their staff training locations, and representatives from the Office of Sustainability participate in a Community Associate training to showcase sustainable event protocols and opportunities to partner with the office for residential events.

Sustainability is even further integrated into New Student Orientation through green event practices at all events. Vegetarian and vegan dishes are included in all meals. Plastic water bottles are avoided by using compostable cups and the distribution of reusable cups. Recycling bins, compost bins, and compostable service ware are provided for all campus-sponsored events during the week. In addition, orientation staff are trained to help the incoming students sort their waste during the entire week of orientation.