Environmental Stewardship
In 2008, the University of Denver joined what is now known as the President’s Climate Leadership Commitments, launching DU’s push to reach carbon neutrality by 2050. Now, amid dire reports about the state of climate change, the University has moved the goalpost closer.
“We at DU choose to be carbon neutral not in three decades, but in this decade,” Chancellor Jeremy Haefner said during his inauguration ceremony. “We choose to do so because of the challenge, because of our relentlessness, and because we are determined to do the right thing.”
The James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus opens new dimensions for the University of Denver to engage in environmental stewardship and sustainability.
Rooted in Care
Environmental stewardship is the shared responsibility for environmental quality. It’s a value reflected in the choices of individuals, businesses, communities, and government organizations, shaped by various interests. This commitment involves continuous improvement of environmental performance, efficient use of natural resources, ecosystem protection, and compliance with environmental requirements.
While not new, environmental stewardship has deep roots in our country, seen in activities like farming, hunting, conservation, and spiritual beliefs. It plays a vital role in preserving natural resources and fostering sustainability in our society.
Land
Support ecologically and culturally sensitive land management and development
Ecosystems
Protect and restore the ecosystem’s functions
Energy
Generate clean energy and use it efficiently
Air
Sustain clean and healthy air
Water
Sustain water resources to ensure quality and availability
Materials
Consume less, reduce waste, and shift to environmentally preferable materials
Dark Skies
Protect the pristine night skies and starscapes
Wildfire Mitigation
Reduce wildfire threats to life, property, and community
Technology
Efficient and sustainable use of technology
People
Health, wellness, and quality of work-life
Make a Difference
As a student, faculty, staff, department, alumni, or friend of DU, we encourage you to consider the many types of stewardship that you can engage with. The James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus works to build education, activities, and projects that can address environmental issues and demonstrate quantifiable benefits.
A Community Learning Experience
Working alongside environmental experts and professional trail builders, we prioritize sustainable practices that minimize ecological impact while maximizing recreational value. Our program uniquely combines hands-on training with environmental stewardship, offering workshops in trail design, construction techniques, and sustainable maintenance practices.
Through these efforts, we're building more than just trails – we're creating lasting connections between people and nature. Our projects empower individuals to develop valuable skills while preserving outdoor spaces for future generations, embodying DU's commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement.