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Over 60 UNH Faculty & Staff Tell UNH’s Sustainability Journey in New Book |
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Over 60 authors. More than five dozen case studies. Nearly 300 pages. This is what it took to write the story of UNH’s sustainability journey. So you can imagine the energy, creativity and passion that have gone into the journey itself. Set to be published this spring by the University Press of New England, “The Sustainable Learning Community: One University’s Journey to the Future” was edited by John Aber, faculty in the UNH Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, Tom Kelly, UNH’s chief sustainability officer, and Bruce Mallory, UNH’s provost. Its many chapters highlight examples of how UNH has integrated sustainability across its curriculum, operations, research and engagement in the last 10-plus years. Writes John Aber in the book’s preface, “Sustainability at UNH...is about being clever and creative; about doing many things at once; about finding |
synergistic solutions to a number of issues in all sectors; and mostly, about involving everyone across campus. What you will encounter in the more than five dozen stories that make up the heart of this book is a multiplicity of creative solutions that enhance the quality of the living, working, and learning experience on campus, while reducing our environmental footprint.” “Campuses nationwide are endorsing sustainability initiatives. But there is much more to it than meets the eye,” adds Mitchell Thomashow, president of Unity College, environmental educator and author, and a reviewer of the book. “The University of New Hampshire’s exemplary approach demonstrates how sustainability builds community, raises awareness, remodels infrastructure and transforms the way people think. This comprehensive handbook provides detailed case studies for all aspects of campus sustainability projects. It is deep, integrative, and visionary. It is filled with great ideas for how to bring an entire campus together.” |
Did You Know?Authors of UNH’s new book came from every college and school at the Durham campus, the Institute for the Study of Earth, Oceans and Space, Cooperative Extension, the Carsey Institute, the University Office of Sustainability, Energy & Campus Development, UNH Dining, and more. |
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Ordering “The Sustainable Learning Community: One University’s Journey to the Future” is easy! Just visit the University Press of New England website for secure online ordering at or call them toll free at 800-421-1561. |
April 1 Mark Winne: Closing the Food Gap 4:00 PM UNH MUB Theater II Contact: UNH Discovery Program |
April 17 - 25 UNH Undergraduate Research Conference Come see a wide variety of student sustainability research, including special sessions at the Parent’s Association Symposium on April 24 |
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May 1 Memorial Union Building Strafford Room, UNH Durham Contact: UNH Energy Club |
Many events this spring! “The Growing Divide”: A University-wide Dialogue on Poverty and Opportunity UNH Discovery Program Contact: UNH Discovery Program |
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Sustainable Agriculture Lectures Mondays, 4:00 PM 219 Cole Hall, UNH Durham Open to the publilc |
Thursdays, 4 - 5 PM, unless otherwise noted 240 DeMeritt Hall, UNH Durham Open to the public Contact: NRESS PhD Program website |
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Since 1997, the University Office of Sustainability -- the oldest endowed sustainability program in higher education in the U.S. -- has been transforming UNH into a Sustainable Learning Community: A land grant, sea grant, and space grant university that unites the spirit of discovery with the challenge of sustainability across its curriculum, operations, research and engagement (CORE) through four initiatives designed around four key systems that underpin our ability to define and pursue quality of life -- biodiversity, climate, food, and culture. Discover sustainability at UNH.UNH University Office of Sustainability 107 Nesmith Hall, 131 Main Street Durham, NH 03824 USA 603.862.4088 phone 603.862.0785 fax |
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Joanne Burke Clinical Assistant Professor, UNH Dept. of Molecular, Cellular & Biomedical Sciences |
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Why is nutrition an important part of sustainability? Nutrition and sustainability are inextricably linked. Healthy soils and waterways and environmentally respectful food production give rise to wholesome foods, supporting our health and nutritional well-being. Social, economic, cultural and political factors impact food production, access, and health outcomes. As a profession, nutritionists are trained to view the health role that nutrients in food play in health promotion but have not historically considered the food system used to produce these foods. As we become more aware of how food production and dietary practices impact our environment, it becomes apparent that sustainability must be integrated into nutrition practices. What role can all of us play in addressing the issue of food security? There are a variety of interconnected ways to take action. Becoming involved in food and agriculture policy decisions has far reaching impacts. Joining a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program supports local farmers, builds capacity, and provides you with healthy foods. State, regional, and national policies and practices also are needed. Most of the US Farm Bill supports large agribusiness with few resources for small and mid-size producers. One out of eight Americans do not have access to healthy diets. Food banks provide short term food access, but were never intended to be a long term |
solution to failed economic and social policy. Long term system-wide strategies that promote healthy, accessible food systems and livable wages are needed. What motivates you personally to be involved in sustainability? I find it unacceptable that we live in a country that advertises itself as the world’s breadbasket yet far too many of our citizens go hungry. Growing up, I watched as my parents tried to make a difference. My dad worked on civil rights issues while my mom assisted Cuban refugees in our North Miami parish. Armed with the belief that individuals can and should make a difference, I find it ethically rewarding to be playing a role in advancing food security and sustainability. My husband and I hope our children, grandchildren and future generations benefit from the sustainability work we are collectively engaged in. Learn more by visiting the New Hampshire Center for a Food Secure Future's website. -------------------------------- UNH-RENU needs YOU!UNH-RENU (Recycling Everything New/Used) collects and donates unwanted items to local organizations at the end of the spring semester. Last year RENU collected 245 bags of clothing and 4800 pounds of food! UNH-RENU is supported by UNH Facilities, UNH Housing, UNH Residential Life, the University Office of Sustainability, the UNH Student Senate, and the Ecological Advocates. To get involved, come to the RENU pizza and ice cream party April 1 from 6-7 PM in MUB Room 302. Questions? Contact Anne Lawing. |
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