At the University of Michigan, sustainability is not just about pushing changes in campus plans and infrastructure—it’s about building a culture of sustainability at every level. Recognizing that changing work culture relies significantly on faculty and staff, the Office of Campus Sustainability (OCS) came up with the Staff Sustainability Mini-Grant, a funding source for supporting small-scale workplace sustainability initiatives.
Bridging the Gap with Mini-Grants
Unlike other campus grants, like the Planet Blue Student Innovation Fund managed by the Student Sustainability Coalition, the Staff Sustainability Mini-Grant is managed by OCS and is more approachable. The project was conceived as a response to an unmet need by Green Teams (staff and faculty member teams committed to sustainability) who identified an economic barrier preventing workplace sustainability efforts. The mini-grant overcomes this challenge by providing a maximum of $500 per department to fund projects that enhance their sustainability in the workplace.
Applications are considered “roll in”, so employees and faculty can apply whenever needed instead of based on a set deadline. To apply, the applicant has to be from the department of an active Green Team, demonstrating that there is an overall community to support implementation. In addition, at least 20% of the department’s staff should be Planet Blue Ambassadors so that there is room for sustainability learning and long-term commitment. Staff and faculty can access the training through the online Canvas modules, or can sign up their work group for an in-person training (email pba-information@umich.edu for more information). For now, projects need to be located in a general fund building, though the requirement might change in the future. However, OCS encourages interested candidates who cannot meet all specifications to reach out and discuss potential flexibility.
Innovative Projects Making an Impact
To date, the mini-grants have supported a variety of diverse projects. Some examples include:
- Reusable Dishware for Staff Break Rooms – As part of an attempt to move departments away from disposable items, grants have been utilized to purchase reusable dishware.
- Bike Repair Kits in the School of Education – These toolkits, made available to the general U-M community, help bike commuters by providing access to essential maintenance equipment.
- On-Site Composting – One workplace bought a compost tumbler to compost fruit and vegetable scraps on-site, reducing landfill input.
- Specialized Recycling Through TerraCycle – Facilities that handle unusual waste streams, such as rigid lab plastics, have purchased TerraCycle boxes to ensure proper disposal.
- Energy Saving Devices – Some teams have switched to reusable batteries and outlet timers to save energy.
Encouraging Increased Participation
Despite its many successes, OCS has realized that a portion of the faculty and staff are hesitant to apply because it is thought to be difficult to apply for grants. However, the mini-grant application process is informal, natural, and an easy way to get involved. Any applicants interested are encouraged to contact OCS staff for support even if one has a basic idea of a project of sustainability.
“This grant is supposed to be simple and accessible,” Nicole Berg from OCS says. “If you have an idea but aren’t sure where to go from there, contact us—we’d be happy to assist you in further developing it and exploring other resources.”
Looking Ahead: Growing Sustainability on Campus
The university is making significant strides toward its own long-term sustainability goals through efforts such as Vision 2034 and Campus Plan 2050. Campus-wide initiatives such as increased solar installations, geothermal wells, and North Campus HVAC upgrades are driving systemic change. But OCS insists that sustainability isn’t just about building—it’s about transforming behavior and workplace culture.
As the university’s existing waste reduction efforts sunset in 2025, fresh initiatives are being set that consider waste management and how to reduce and reuse waste more comprehensively. Whether it’s clothing and swag exchanges, lab reuse programs, or anything else, there is a larger focus on cutting waste wherever possible. OCS is optimistic about having even greater campus-level sustainability initiatives launched, and the mini-grants are an indispensable tool in making that happen.
Get Involved
If you’re a staff or faculty member who has a sustainability project in mind for your campus workplace, apply for a Staff Sustainability Mini-Grant. If you wish to cut back on waste, save energy, or encourage environmentally friendly commuting, OCS can assist you. For more details, go to the OCS website or email nberg@umich.edu. One small idea could make a significant difference!
Kaylynn is a PBA intern and a PitE Peer Advisor.