Making a Sustainable Difference in College

Making a Sustainable Difference in College
5 Ways to Put UNH's Sustainability Leadership into Practice
November 17, 2025
Author
Emily Kulp

How can I make a difference as a college student? How do I get involved with sustainability in college?

If you are looking to make a difference on campus and in your community and world, then UNH is the perfect place for you. Did you know that UNH has earned the highest national ranking for sustainability? Sustainability is part of all aspects of our campus life, from our transportation system to our reuse of dining hall food waste to our sustainable courses and experiential learning opportunities. Our students are actively making a positive impact on our world and community every day. There are so many ways for you to get involved in sustainability right here as a UNH student â€” let's talk about five ways to make a difference. 

Apply to UNH

UNH students conducting research on Appledore Island

1. Add a sustainability dual major.

Students of any major can add a This path provides an interdisciplinary education that will equip you with the skills necessary to address environmental, social, and economic challenges in your community and world. Plus, eligible students from New England who add a sustainability dual major may qualify for a tuition discount of about $9,000 per year through the New England Tuition Break program.

Organic Garden Club welcoming new members at the University Day picnic

2. Join a sustainable student org.

Sustainable student organizations are a great way to connect with other students on campus who share your values and desire to make the world a better place. There are so many sustainable student organizations at UNH to choose from, including the , where you can grow food at a student-run farm, and , which hosts monthly local vendor markets.

UNH student relaxing in residence hall room

3. Work with Trash 2 Treasure.

Trash 2 Treasure both limits unnecessary landfill waste and makes back-to-school shopping more affordable for college students. The program collects furniture and dorm items from students at the end of each school year to recycle or resell  them at discounted prices the following fall at a move-in sale. To get involved, you can volunteer with the group or apply to become a team member. 

UNH students hanging out outdoors on campus

4. Do a Changemaker Fellowship.

Interested in sustainability, but not sure how you want to make an impact yet? The Changemaker Fellowship is the perfect opportunity for first-year students to connect with peers who share their passion for making a difference. You’ll find real mentorship and community through being paired with a current student Changemaker Coach and connected with a cohort of fellow students. 

Cat Trax campus bike share program

5. Become a Sustainability Intern.

Help the UNH Sustainability Institute achieve its mission of advancing sustainability on campus through a part-time paid internship. Students work in campus areas including our Cat Trax bike share program, pollinator garden, climate and energy, and campus food pantry. 

Make a difference.

Published
November 17, 2025
Author
Emily Kulp