Program on the Environment

College athletics contributes largely to each university’s ecological footprint; it is a platform that can reach diverse ranges of people. Athletes are role models for younger generations as well as representatives of the university; their knowledge and practices should be a priority for the university. The aim of the study was to grasp how student-athletes understand and act on sustainability. I was expecting most student-athletes to believe sustainability was important and take actions to be sustainable when possible. Interviewed 20 student-athletes and assisted athletic department at the University of Washington (UW) to create methods for educating and involving athletes with sustainability. Education through tangible products was my method to reach as many people as possible during and following my work with the sustainability department. Formal interview results differed between student-athletes at UW but were overall hopeful, all athletes had a desire to learn and some wanted to adapt quickly to better practices. Many thought athletes could create a more sustainable world. Some wanted to take part in a sustainability group surrounding athletics specifically. College athletics is a huge platform that other programs around the country look to for leadership, they have assisted America in taking positive leaps forward; sustainability should be the next. Athletic departments should work to make changes, this will help the university and surrounding communities. By incorporating relevant signage, presenting a slideshow for every sport and involving student-athletes through a sustainability group landfill waste will be minimized and natural resources will be used more efficiently.