University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
ER-3: Sustainability in New Student Orientation

Campus sustainability programs and opportunities are promoted to all new students through the “Carolina Green” Initiative during each of the major orientation events –

• The two main orientation programs for new students at UNC are CTOPS (Carolina Testing & Orientation Program Sessions), which is required for all first-year students, and TSOP (Transfer Student Orientation Program). At each session of CTOPS and TSOP, students are given a binder with information about student life at UNC. One section of this guide highlights sustainability at UNC and how to implement sustainable practices into student life while at UNC. Tables focused on Greening the Campus are staffed at both the informational and lunch events. In addition, sustainability tips can be found in the “Move In” section of the guide.

• Week of Welcome (WOW) is a multiday series of events for new students at UNC. Several WOW events partner with the Carolina Green Initiative, and are highlighted as such in the WOW Guide and event calendar.

• FallFest is a huge event two nights before the first day of classes that welcomes new and returning students and promotes student involvement on campus. Student organizations, activity clubs, and recreational sports teams set up booths to recruit new members. Free food, games, and performances attract thousands of students. The Sustainability Office and the Office of Waste Reduction and Recycling are regular participants as are student organizations focused on sustainability related topics.