UF might be known for orange and blue, but this university is also green. UF is a leader in sustainability, and has been recognized by various groups for its efforts.
UF was the first university to become a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, with roughly one-quarter of the campus dedicated to natural-area protection, and has been recognized by the Arbor Day Foundation as a Tree Campus for four years in a row. With 13 miles of bike lanes and 22 self-service bicycle repair stations, UF also earned Silver Status as a Bike Friendly University from the League of American Bicyclists in 2016.
There are more than 60 certified Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) buildings on campus, and about 40 percent of waste is recycled. The Swamp, UF’s famous football stadium, is working to achieve the status of the first zero-waste stadium in the Southeastern Conference.
Students are encouraged to think and act green through the Green Graduation Cord Challenge. This program encourages students to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability efforts on campus by volunteering and taking courses. UF offers more than 300 courses related to sustainability, with subjects ranging from engineering to food and agriculture.