Making Waves: How College Campuses Are Saving the Oceans

When you think of college campuses, sustainability usually isn’t the first thing to come to mind. But did you know that students and universities all around the world are taking small steps to protect our oceans better? From sustainable dining options to lakeshore cleanups, together we are stepping up to save our seas. Here’s how students on different college campuses are making waves in the fight for ocean sustainability!

At Stanford University, student organizations have taken the lead in achieving the university’s ambitious goal of reaching zero waste by 2030. Groups like Students for a Sustainable Stanford organize waste reduction workshops, advocate for improved recycling programs, and host annual waste audits to track progress. By participating in the “Campus Race to Zero Waste” campaign, students at Stanford are learning how to be more conscious of the ocean while keeping the spirit of friendly competition. Small reminders to students like removing food containers from recyclable bins may seem insignificant, but they contribute to broader ocean sustainability efforts.

At the University of California, student-led advocacy groups are driving ocean-friendly policy changes. Organizations like the California Student Sustainability Coalition have successfully lobbied for state legislation that reduces plastic waste and expands marine protected areas. Students have also taken part in rallies and public hearings to push for stronger environmental protections. Their goal is to achieve a 30% protection of coastal waters by 2030. Through their advocacy, students play a critical role in influencing government decisions that impact marine environments.

Across the border in Canada at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, QCOS–our club leads shoreline cleanups along Lake Ontario to prevent plastic waste from reaching the ocean! Meanwhile, Queen’s University students involved in environmental research are studying the effects of microplastic pollution in freshwater sources and its long-term impact on marine ecosystems. The university is also working on restoring local wetland ecosystems, helping to protect aquatic biodiversity and reduce pollutants that could eventually reach the ocean. 

Similarly, at the University of Sydney in Australia, student-led groups are spearheading efforts in marine conservation. The Sydney University Environmental Collective has pushed for the reduction of single-use plastics on campus and has successfully campaigned for the university to ban plastic straws and cutlery. Student researchers from the university’s Institute of Marine Science have also contributed to coral reef restoration projects, developing innovative techniques to help reefs recover from climate change damage.

From North America to Australia and beyond, student-led initiatives on college campuses are proving that young people have the power to protect our planet’s waters. Whether through waste reduction, advocacy, or hands-on conservation efforts, students are taking charge in the fight for ocean sustainability. As students continue to advocate for sustainability, universities will remain key players in ensuring a future for our oceans.