The University of Otago actively contributes to both local and global sustainability efforts. The work is guided by a strategic framework aligned with the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their 169 targets. These goals address social, economic, and environmental challenges with the aim of ending poverty, tackling climate change, reducing inequality, and creating a sustainable future.
The University was the first in New Zealand to formally commit to persuing these global sustainability objectives, demonstrating leadership and collective action.
Student engagement
You are encouraged to engage with sustainability through volunteering, taking action in your living and study environments, leading projects, or connecting with peers.
Student initiatives include:
- Student volunteers: Opportunities to join teams and contribute to sustainability efforts
- Sustainability sussed: Alternative approaches to living more sustainably
- Sustainability neighbourhood: Flatting initiatives that act as living labs for sustainability practice
- Tētēkura | Student leads: Student leaders employed through the Office of Sustainability
- Sustainability week: Events and campaigns to raise awareness and provide sustainable solutions
- Bike grab: Opportunities to repair or obtain bikes for a small koha, promoting sustainable transport
Staff engagement
You can participate in sustainability efforts in multiple ways, including volunteering, taking action in your workspaces, or becoming a leader.
Staff initiatives include:
- Green Your Scene: A programme to make positive changes within the University and connect with the broader sustainability movement
- Research - Living Labs: Campuses serve as living laboratories where operational and academic staff collaborate to practice sustainability in day-to-day operations, perform research on sustainability challenges, and equip students with sustainability skills
- Sustainability staff award: Recognises outstanding contributions by staff to sustainability initiatives
- Green Your Scene workshops: Opportunities to learn practical ways to apply sustainability in the workplace
These programmes allow both staff and students to embed sustainability into daily life, foster collective action, and contribute to the University's wider sustainability goals.
Contact the Sustainability at Otago team to share your ideas or for more information about sustainability initiatives:
Email
sustainability@otago.ac.nz
Web
Sustainability at the University of Otago