Campus and Community Connected
Every fall and winter term, students from around the world return to Ann Arbor, and the streets bustle with noise as students, staff, faculty, tourists, and families enjoy the downtown restaurants and businesses.
Ann Arbor is known for its bike-friendly and walkable environment, with a diverse selection of businesses, restaurants, and shops to discover. From cozy coffee shops and cultural eateries to several thrift and consignment stores, the city holds a vibrant mix of local businesses. The abundance of dining options fosters a strong culture of supporting local businesses within town. With so many great places to choose from, why not take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy and support Ann Arbor’s local community? As you explore restaurants and businesses downtown by yourself, with friends, or your family, it’s worth recognizing the sustainability efforts of local businesses in Ann Arbor.
GO BLUE While Going Green
In 2020, Ann Arbor debuted the A2ZERO Climate Action Plan. This bold plan aims to get the city to carbon neutrality by 2030.
One of the most exciting recent initiatives to come out of the city’s sustainability efforts is the Ann Arbor Green Business Challenge. Launched in May 2024, this initiative is designed to encourage local businesses to embrace sustainable practices while competing for recognition. While still in its pilot stage, the Green Business Challenge is a key component of Ann Arbor’s path to carbon neutrality.
The Green Business Challenge is like the Olympics for sustainability, giving local businesses the tools, resources, and motivation they need to “go green.” Participating businesses work to reduce their environmental impact through energy efficiency, waste reduction, and other sustainable practices, all while competing for certification at various levels: bronze, silver, gold, and platinum. Not only do these businesses cut costs and build stronger brands, but they also contribute to the city’s overall sustainability goals.
The challenge is a model for communities looking to engage their local businesses in sustainability efforts. By spotlighting shops that go above and beyond, Ann Arbor is hoping to create a ripple effect to further create a more sustainable community. Some of the businesses that are already participating in the challenge are: Zingerman’s Delicatessen, The Getup Vintage, Washtenaw Dairy, Ann Arbor T-Shirt Company, and more!
How You Can Support Local Sustainability
By purchasing local and from sustainable businesses you can help foster a more sustainable culture on campus and throughout the community. Below is a list of some of my favorite local businesses with sustainable practices
MDining Cafes like UMMA Café: MDining has emphasized sustainability by implementing oat milk as the default for coffee beverages across campus, significantly reducing carbon emissions compared to dairy options. They also serve to-go items in compostable cups, reducing waste to the landfill when they are placed in proper compost containers on campus.
- Vertex Coffee: Vertex Coffee places a huge emphasis on zero waste by using glassware in shop, and compostable supplies for to-go orders.
- RoosRoast: RoosRoast emphasizes sustainability by sourcing fair-trade, organic coffee beans, and powering their operations through rooftop solar panels .
- The Detroit Filling Station: This vegan restaurant focuses on plant-based, locally-sourced ingredients, significantly lowering its carbon footprint while offering a variety of environmentally-friendly food options.
- Big City Small World: Known for its wide selection of vegan options, Big City Small World supports plant-based eating, which helps reduce resource consumption and emissions.
- Argus Farm Stop: A year-round farmers’ market store supporting local, small-scale farmers, Argus Farm Stop reduces food miles and encourages a sustainable, local food economy.
- Ann Arbor Farmers Market: The farmers’ market offers fresh, seasonal produce directly from local farms, minimizing transportation emissions and supporting sustainable, regional agriculture.
- People’s Food Co-op: This co-op is dedicated to local, organic products and waste-reduction initiatives, promoting sustainable food options and eco-friendly shopping habits.
By supporting these local businesses, you’re not only enjoying great products and services, but you’re also contributing to a larger movement that’s making Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan a more sustainable place to live, study, and work.
Looking Ahead: A Greener, Brighter Future for Ann Arbor
With the City’s A2ZERO plan, Ann Arbor is positioning itself as a leader in sustainability. Whether you’re a student on campus, a local business owner, or simply a community member, there’s never been a better time to get involved. Together, we can build a more sustainable future—one that benefits both the campus and the wider Ann Arbor community.