///////

Sustainability at UD

Learn. Lead. Conserve.

The University of Dayton advances sustainability through campus operations, academic programs, student leadership and community partnerships. UD holds a "gold" AASHE STARS rating, has achieved $1 million in annual energy-cost savings since 2022, operates a solar prairie and campus garden, and is pursuing campus sustainability goals for energy, waste, water, transportation, procurement and biodiversity.

The University of Dayton is a leader in sustainability efforts, and we're committed to making the world a better place — for everyone.

Sustainability Points of Pride

“Green College"

according to The Princeton Review

Gold STARS rating

from AASHE for our sustainability achievements

Green and Growing

UD's campus is designed to enhance sustainability. An 8-acre solar prairie generates energy and provides a hands-on laboratory and studio space for students. In addition, we maintain a campus garden and multiple native pollinator-friendly plantings across 11 acres of green space.
Explore Sustainable Spaces
Solar panels at the solar prairie

How Does UD Advance Sustainability?

Campus Operations

From dining initiatives to recycling to energy management, the University of Dayton has many practices in place across campus to meet our sustainability goals. 

Laudato Si' Commitment

UD participates in the Laudato Si' Action Platform, a global initiative launched by the Vatican to support sustainability. Explore our commitments to the seven Laudato Si' goals.

Learning and Research

The University offers numerous academic programs and research efforts focused on sustainability. In addition to generating energy, our 8-acre solar prairie provides a hands-on laboratory and studio space for students.

Student and Community Action

Sustainability Student Leaders address sustainability challenges, ranging from food justice and waste diversion to energy efficiency and circular economy practices. The Hanley Sustainability Institute helps create a more sustainable community.

UD Sustainability Stories
Sustainability
11.6.2026
divider

Residential Energy: From Energy Efficiency to Engagement link-arrow link-arrow

The Residential Energy Team brought their 'House of Pressure' demonstration to a wider audience at the Family Weekend farmers market.
Sustainability
10.28.2026
divider

Exploring Conservation Through History and Community link-arrow link-arrow

A Soil and Water Conservation District internship shows the importance of sustainability from a technical perspective and through community engagement.
10.28.2026
divider

Nihiser Recognized with U.S. Department of Energy ITAC Outstanding Student Award link-arrow link-arrow

Graduate student Emily Nihiser has been honored by the U.S. Department of Energy as the 2025 recipient of the Outstanding Achievement Award in Energy Engineering by an Industrial Training and Assessment Center (ITAC) Student.
Contact Office of Energy and Sustainability
300 College Park
Dayton, Ohio 45469 - 2904
email

Support Sustainability at UD

Join us in our efforts to promote and research sustainability, making the world a better place.

Make a Gift