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When we think about our mission at the University of Kentucky—to improve the lives of Kentuckians and beyond—environmental stewardship and sustainability are core parts of our legacy. We believe in creating a campus—and a world—that is healthy, fair, and built to last. We're committed to integrating sustainability into our curriculum, research, outreach, and daily operations, so that our students and community are prepared to lead toward a more sustainable future.

Product design student transforms red oak tree into functional work bar

Chase Lobaldo, 3rd year product design student, was working in the Fabrication Lab at the University of Kentucky’s College of Design, when the Office of Sustainability approached him with a clear goal in mind: create a multi-person workspace where students, employees, and visitors can work and conversate in front of the large glass windows overlooking the intersection of S Limestone and S Upper.

New SAVS courses prioritize sustainable materials for studio practices

The University of Kentucky’s School of Art and Visual Studies (SAVS) is reimagining what an art studio can be. Two courses, Healthy Materials Lab and Digital Matrix Modeling, led by fabrication lab specialist Hannah Smith and professor Jonathan McFadden last fall, aimed to eliminate toxic materials from studio practices and introduce students to safer, recycled, and biodegradable alternatives.  

Exploring business, land, and community through Kentucky’s sheep and hemp industries with Vincent Stanley

Vincent Stanley has spent over five decades shaping the values and practices of Patagonia is one of the world’s most recognizable and reputable brands.  As the company’s longtime storyteller and current Director of Philosophy, Stanley has dedicated his career to exploring how businesses can act to serve both the people and the planet.

Thrifty's Pop-Up at The 90

Get ready, Wildcats! The Thrifty Cat is holding the first Thrifty's Pop-up at the 90.   Thrift with us on March 6th at 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. All of the fun will take place on the 2nd floor in room 202. Click here for more information.

Microplastic Madness Film Screening

Community members are invited to a free screening of the documentary Microplastic Madness, an optimistic take on the plastic pollution crisis as told through the eyes of a group of school children. Common Threads LEX, a new sustainability-focused partnership between the City of Lexington, the University of Kentucky and Fayette County Public Schools, is hosting the screening. This is Common Threads LEX’s inaugural event. 

2026 Thrift Shop Pop Up

Come on out to UK Recycling's 8th annual Thrift Shop Pop-Up in partnership with Student Organizations and Activities and Wildcat Wardrobe. UK students will be able to replenish their wardrobes for free while also reusing clothing items that might’ve otherwise ended up in the landfill. Clothing, ties, purses, hats, and belts will all be available. Click here to learn more about what you can donate to the event.