NMU ATHLETICS’ ROLE IN MEETING CARBON NEUTRALITY GOALS - Sustainability Hub for Innovation & Environment

Beyond the building renovations mentioned above, NMU Athletics has been working to improve efficiencies and reduce its footprint in other areas of operations. For example, the volleyball team has been leading the way regarding sustainability practices within athletic teams. Their efforts were highlighted in a video titled “Serving as an Example: Small Sustainability Steps to Make a Big Difference,” created by Makaylee Kuhn and Dr. Mark Shevy and showcased at the Fresh Coast Film Festival earlier this fall. The athletic department has also optimized travel by coordinating team trips and scheduling multiple events at the same locations, reducing travel miles and costs. In the 2023-2024 academic year, NMU’s NCAA teams generated fewer than 32 metric tons of carbon emissions from travel - very minimal compared to the university’s overall emissions. Another key achievement in sustainability has been the creation of Green Athletics, founded by former EEGS student and women’s basketball player Makaylee Kuhn, whose sole purpose is to create and promote sustainable changes within the athletic department. This student-driven group, consisting of athletes, coaches, and administrators, has spearheaded initiatives such as zero-waste games, apparel swaps, campus cleanups, and a sustainability education campaign for all athletic teams.

Written by: Makaylee Kuhn, Green Athletics Intern