University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
EN-2: Student Orientation

Campus sustainability programs and opportunities are promoted to all new students through the Three Zeros Environmental Initiative during each of the major orientation events –

• The two main orientation programs for new students at UNC are the First Year Orientation for Students and Parents, which is required for all first-year students, and the Transfer Student Orientation. At each session, 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 the University. Tables focused on Greening the Campus are staffed at informational events. Historically, students have been able to take a Carolina Green Pledge and earn a Carolina Green water bottle. Interactive games focused on sustainable behaviors, primarily recycling and composting. 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 Three Zeros Environmental Initiative and are highlighted as such in the WOW Guide and event calendar. These included an EcoRep Recruiting Fair, a Sustainability Social, and orientations to the bus system and recycling program. The Sustainability Social highlights academic opportunities, sustainability programs run by campus departments, and internship and extracurricular opportunities for students. The event profiles local food, composting, and zero waste

• 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.

The Graduate and Professional Student Federation hosts an information fair for graduate students. The Sustainability Office regularly hosts a table at this event. In addition to University goals and practices and desired student behaviors, this table emphasizes the Green Labs program at UNC because many incoming graduate and professional students work in a lab environment.

For students unable to attend these events, or seeking reinforcement, an orientation video was produced that highlights university goals and practices as well as the sustainable behaviors expected of Tar Heels. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdVpYICUGWcJtLMqRLYJw0w