On Thursday, October 20, 2016, thirty Green Ambassadors gathered to discuss the newly approved Comprehensive Sustainability Strategy. The strategy, which focuses on the six key areas of (1) energy and emissions, (2) water, (3) building and construction, (4) waste, (5) procurement, licensing and food sourcing, and (6) education, research, and community outreach, encompasses broader long-term goals and 5-year action plans than the previous strategy.
Ambassadors were given the chance to discuss the new ‘living document’ – what they were excited about, what they felt were the greatest challenges, what they could do personally, and what else they hoped to see accomplished in the coming years.
Overall, Ambassadors expressed the most enthusiasm for the renewed focus on community outreach, education initiatives, and food waste reduction. While they expressed some hesitation in regard to such issues as generational differences and cost, the Ambassadors were optimistic that a greater deliberation toward sustainability on campus and in the community is possible. “Today's luncheon meeting was the most informative and productive the Green Ambassadors have ever experienced,” said Dave Teske, Culinary Service Manager, North Dining Hall.
If you are a staff member interested in becoming a Green Ambassador, or would like more information, please email us at green@nd.edu.