news

Students making change and tackling global food issues on campus

Western Michigan University engineering students design an automated hydroponic system

Western's Carbon Neutrality Committee turning up the heat on climate commitments

Western Michigan University is reinvigorating efforts to respond to and offset the impacts of climate change.

New climate and energy advisor develops vision for cleaner, greener Michigan

Dr. Brandy Brown, who earned a doctoral degree from Western Michigan University, was tapped to lead the charge to develop a vision for a cleaner, greener future in Michigan. 

Landscapers practice natural selection management technique

Instead of mowing on a steep slope, landscape staffers on campus are using a proven landscape management technique — ecological restoration, which includes planting hundreds of trees. 

Sunseeker team engineers its way to impressive finish at Formula Sun Grand Prix

Western Michigan University's Sunseeker solar race car team celebrated its 30th anniversary with an impressive performance at the Formula Sun Grand Prix in Austin, Texas.

Students study effectiveness of solar panel placement

Western Michigan University engineering students studied the effects of shade on solar panels and their best position to optimize energy output in a project for Consumers Energy. 

Business class completes 3,700 + hours of service in one semester

Students in Dr. Timothy Palmer's business ethics and sustainability class at Western Michigan University are answering that question by learning the social responsibility that comes with being a business leader.

Shared Streets ordinance takes effect in Kalamazoo

The Shared Streets ordinance was approved by the Kalamazoo City Commission in January 2019 alongside the Complete Streets Policy and transfer of local road jurisdiction from MDOT to the city of Kalamazoo.  

WMU Students launch "Plastic Waste on Campus" website to highlight recycling efforts

Plastic Waste on Campus is a news project produced by students in the Environmental Reporting course. This multimedia news project examines problems with plastic through a student viewpoint which incorporates graphics and interviews.

Former president of Ireland shares testimonies on the dangers and effects of climate change

On Jan. 25 the former President of Ireland stopped at Western Michigan University to talk about climate change. Robinson asserted that everyone must take the issue of climate change personally by pressuring governments and questioning what they’re doing to deal with this issue. 

Michigan food hubs make hospital food and the local food economy healthier 

ValleyHUB is studying and experimenting to see if the hub system can be truly sustainable in an urban environment

MBA program recognized as a top business school for sustainability

Western Michigan University's Haworth College of Business was named to an elite list of the top 100 business schools that emphasize sustainability in their master of business administration programs.

Who's Pumping Out Greenhouse Gases In Southwest Michigan?

Learn more about the two sources of greenhouse gases that make up the majority of the carbon emitted in Southwest Michigan.

Battery research project will support company's clean energy plan

Consumer's Energy has installed a large-scale battery on WMU's Parkview Campus. This new battery can store enough energy to power 1,000 homes for an hour!

Heritage Hall Alumni Center featured in USGBC Battle of the Buildings video

Watch WMU President Dr. Montgomery speak about the successes and opportunities created by the renovation and subsequent LEED Platinum certification of WMU's first building. 

University partners with city to promote 'shared prosperity' for residents 

WMU and the City of Kalamazoo formalized a new city initiative to reduce poverty and promote prosperity in our community, 

Multimillion-dollar research center addresses construction challenges

WMU researchers are studying innovative ways to build better in the age of climate change. 

New permaculture orchard demonstrates WMU devotion to sustainability

70 fruit trees have turned what was a parking lot into a rejuvenating nascent grove. Read more about Landscape Services efforts on this project here.