Student Engagement
Our students are instrumental in promoting and initiating sustainability and conservation at Colby. Groups include EcoReps, who exemplify sustainable living to their peers, the Environmental Coalition, the Colby Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association, and the Colby Alliance for Renewable Energy.
Student Groups
Ecoreps
EcoReps are students who are interested in creating change and who have a passion for sustainability. Representatives educate their peers on sustainable living practices, organize and execute waste diversion efforts local to their residence hall, plan sustainability-related events throughout the year, communicate and market campus environmental activities, engage in campus-related sustainability research, and act as a sustainable living example for their community. Learn more here.
EnviroCo
The Environmental Coalition seeks to educate the Colby and Waterville communities about recycling, water quality, maple sugaring, forest management, and other environmental issues. The office is located in the basement of Mary Low Hall.
Colby Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association
The Colby Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association operates a three-quarter-acre organic garden on campus. COFGA’s primary functions are growing produce for Colby’s dining halls, educating the student body about sustainable agriculture, and providing members with experience needed to grow their own food.
Colby Beekeepers
The Colby Beekeepers maintains the beehives near the organic garden, and educates students on honey bees and the practical aspects of beekeeping. Although the hives are only active in the summer, the Beekeepers are active year round with honey tastings, weekly meetings, and preparation for the summer!
Colby Alliance for Renewable Energy
The Colby Alliance for Renewable Energy (C.A.R.E.) aims to mobilize the students and administration of Colby to work together for a sustainable energy future.
Other Student Involvement
Students at Colby serve as recycling coordinators and in other paid part-time positions that promote sustainability. Students are involved in course work, independent study, and research, and new students discuss sustainability during orientation. Students and college-supported student-run organizations have been instrumental in initiating many policy changes promoting sustainability and conservation over the years.
Green Living Guide
At Colby, we are committed to sustainability. Since becoming carbon neutral in 2013, the Colby community has ingrated sustainability into campus living. This guide aims to demonstrate how you can be successfully sustainable by incorporating practices into your daily routine. Additionally, this guide will show you all the ways Colby is already green! We at the Office of Sustainability hope this guide teaches you how to live more sustainability at Colby and minimize your own environmental footprint. If you want to get involved or have any questions about campus sustainability email [email protected] or contact your dorm EcoRep!