Forming a community partnership to enhance education in sustainability

Abstract

PurposeTo provide an example of how colleges can partner with local EcoVillages to further sustainability curriculum on campus and the educational mission of the EcoVillages, and to strengthen ties with the community.Design/methodology/approachDescribes four structured courses developed for the Environmental Studies Program, including sustainable communities, sustainable land use, sustainable energy and environmental futures. Additionally, independent research opportunities in wind energy, solar photovoltaics, and GIS/GPS developed as part of the curriculum. Describes numerous ancillary activities that have promoted sustainability across campus and the community.FindingsProvides information about how to develop educational partnerships with community groups, foster sustainability education on campus, recruit additional faculty involvement, and influence college operations with respect to sustainability.Practical implicationsA very useful source of information for those involved in building sustainability curriculum and linking it to campus operations and community outreach.Originality/valueThis paper describes a unique partnership between a college and an intentional community that serves as a model for other colleges and universities.