Cultivating a Culture of Sustainability at the University of Miami
The University of Miami has long been a leader in academic excellence, but since 2024, it has also become a powerhouse of digital-to-physical environmental action. By partnering with GetGreen, UM transformed campus sustainability from a passive concept into a competitive, high-energy lifestyle for students, faculty, and staff alike.
The Challenge: From Awareness to Action
While the University of Miami's Sustainability Office had high engagement, they sought a way to quantify daily habits and maintain momentum between major events. The goal was to bridge the gap between "knowing" what is sustainable and "doing" it consistently.
The Strategy: Gamified Sustainability
Under the leadership of Teddy L'Houtellier, Director of Sustainability, and his dedicated team, UM launched the GetGreen platform. By integrating the app with existing campus organizations like EcoReps and the EcoAgency, the university turned sustainability into a social and competitive sport.
Key Highlights & Impact
Now in its third year, the program has woven itself into the fabric of the "U."
- 3,000+ Verified Actions: Students have logged thousands of sustainable behaviors, from swapping single-use plastics to optimizing energy use in dorms.
- The UConserve Competition: A flagship event during Campus Sustainability Month where residence halls battled to reduce energy and water consumption. The incentive? Bragging rights and a campus-favorite cookie party for the winning hall.
- Green Game Football: Tailgating and touchdowns met eco-consciousness with special event integration, encouraging fans to reduce waste during the Hurricanes' high-profile games.
- High-Value Incentives: To drive Earth Month participation, UM partnered with Coca-Cola to offer tiered rewards. While many walked away with reusable utensils and tote bags, the top "leaf-earner" rode away on a Coca-Cola eBike.
Faculty & Staff: The Silent Powerhouse
A unique success story at UM is the consistent engagement of Faculty and Staff teams. Often the most competitive users, these groups have used GetGreen to build camaraderie while lowering the university's operational footprint.
"The enthusiasm from our staff has been incredible. They don't just participate; they lead by example, which is why we are so excited to expand this further through our Green Liaison program."
— University of Miami Sustainability Office
The Future: Beyond the Campus Gates
As the program enters its next phase, the University of Miami is doubling down on its success:
- Green Liaison Program: A formal expansion designed to embed sustainability "ambassadors" within every administrative department.
- Community Outreach: Moving beyond campus borders to invite the surrounding Coral Gables and Miami communities to join the GetGreen movement, creating a regional ripple effect of climate action.
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