Overview - Minor

Pursuing the Minor in Sustainability

Since the early years of the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, the focus of the university has expanded and changed. However, the value of sustainability and environmental stewardship continues to be reflected in the university today, from its outdoor spaces and buildings to its academic programs, general education policies, environmentally focused student organizations, and its recently revised Select Mission statement.

Sustainability and Sustainable Development has been defined in many ways, but the most frequently quoted definition is from Our Common Future, also known as the Brundtland Report: "Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs." That report outlined 17 Sustainable Development Goals with a target date of achievement by 2030. With only 10 years remaining for that target, our students will have an active role to play in reaching those goals.

Regardless of what area of emphasis a student's degree program may be, it is important to develop an awareness of the importance of sustainable practices in business activities and community affairs. Our global future rests on creating a citizenry that is aware of the need for economic, environmental and social responsibility. This is critical for our world economy.

A 21 credit interdisciplinary minor in sustainability encourages students to become aware of how intersecting economic, social, and environmental problems affect the global, regional, and local communities and the necessary pathways to address those problems.