November 2025
Register for Spring SUS Courses
.png)
At Weber State University, sustainability is integrated across a diverse range of academic disciplines. Whether you’re studying art, economics, botany, nursing, psychology, education, or another field, there are both upper- and lower-division courses that incorporate sustainability themes. These SUS-attributed courses embed sustainability concepts, issues, and challenges into their learning outcomes, helping students explore how course material connects to larger global and environmental contexts.
To find these courses, use the advanced search options in the eWeber registration portal and select the “SUS” attribute.
(1).png)
It’s an excellent way to learn about sustainability through different areas of study and deepen your understanding of how these vital topics connect to your academic interests. You can also view a full list and descriptions of Spring 2026 SUS courses here.
Announcing Fall 2025 STAR Grant Recipients
The Sustainability Practices and Research Center (SPARC) is pleased to announce the recipients of two new STAR grant awards!
(1).png/Untitled (43)(1)__300x300.png)
Dr. Sarah Brew, Assistant Professor of Theatre
With the support of a STAR award, Dr. Brew is bringing Dr. James McClintock, Endowed Professor of Marine Biology at the University of Alabama Birmingham, to visit campus this coming February, in conjunction with the Theatre Program's production of Ushuaia Blue. Caridad Svich’s play which is set in the icy landscapes of Antarctica and the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia, Argentina, follows two scientists whose research and lives are disrupted by tragedy. Through its cinematic and poetic storytelling, Ushuaia Blue explores the climate crisis and raises questions about the intersection of scientific discovery, art, and the
fragility of polar environments.
Dr. Matt Gnagey & Dr. Therese Cavlovic, Professors of Economics
Dr. Gnagey and Dr. Cavlovic are leading a research project aimed at estimating the economic value of the Great Salt Lake, including non-use values tied to species protection and the preservation of ecosystem services for current and future generations. Collaborating on this project are Dr. Carie Frantz (WSU), Dr. Bob Berrens (University of New Mexico), and WSU undergraduate researchers Zach Barnwell and Nick Howard. The team is conducting a representative survey of over 1,000 Utah households using the contingent valuation method—a widely recognized economic approach for measuring the value of environmental resources. Their findings will provide policy-relevant insights to support informed decision-making on sustaining the Great Salt Lake.
SPARC is excited to support these projects that advance sustainability through art, research, and interdisciplinary collaboration within our community.
Join the LIGHT Team
Weber State University students from all majors are invited to join the LIGHT Team, an interdisciplinary research group studying how artificial light at night (ALAN) from WSU’s illuminated “W” impacts nocturnal bird migration..png/Untitled (26)__300x300.png)
Led by Dr. John F. Cavitt, the project integrates a wide range of disciplines—from field ecology to data science, engineering, design, policy, and education. Students will enroll in ZOOL 4920 – ALAN and Migration Research for training, safety, and coordination, and ZOOL 4800 – Research for 1–4 credits, depending on their level of engagement. A limited number of paid positions are also available for students wishing to continue research beyond the Spring semester.
The LIGHT Team is currently seeking students from diverse fields including Physics/Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, Geography/GIS, Communication/Design, Education, Environmental Science, Statistics, Business/Marketing, and Public Policy, in addition to traditional Field Botany and Zoology.
Sample project roles include:
- Imaging & Optics Team (Physics/EE/Mechanical Engineering): Configuring thermal cameras and low-light video systems, characterizing spectral output and intensity, and validating skyglow measurements.
- Data & Synthesis Team (CS/Data Science/Statistics): Building dashboards that integrate BirdCast, weather, and moon data; automating quality checks; and exploring relationships between light treatments and bird activity.
- GIS & Mapping Team (Geography/Urban Planning): Mapping survey routes, light domes, and collision hot spots, and producing visual materials for publications and policy briefs.
- Communication & Design Team (Communication/Graphic Design/Marketing): Creating the LIGHT Team’s identity, designing infographics and web content, and sharing results and safety actions with the campus community.
- Policy & Outreach Team (Environmental Studies/Political Science/Business): Translating research findings into actionable mitigation options and developing stakeholder reports.
- Education Team (Teacher Education/Spanish): Designing bilingual educational modules and outreach materials for K–12 and campus audiences.
Fieldwork includes semi-flexible hours, often in the early morning or evening, depending on migration patterns. No prior birding experience is required—training is provided.
Students interested in joining can email jcavitt@weber.edu with their major, interests, and weekly availability, using the subject line “LIGHT Team Interest.”
Celebrate a Zero-Waste Thanksgiving
The holiday season is a time for gratitude and togetherness, but unfortunately it can lead to a lot of waste. According to Stanford University’s Waste Reduction Program, household waste in the U.S. increases by more than 25% between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. From packaging and wrapping paper to food waste, the environmental toll adds up quickly. This year, you can make Thanksgiving more meaningful by embracing a zero-waste approach.
Before the Holiday
Plan ahead to prevent excess. Confirm your guest list so you only buy what you need and take inventory of your fridge and pantry before shopping to avoid unnecessary and costly purchases. Consider choosing ingredients with minimal packaging, shop local(2).png/Untitled (42)(2)__300x300.png)
and seasonal produce, and buy in bulk when possible. Don’t forget to use up what’s already in your kitchen– vegetable scraps and bones make a great base for homemade broth!
On the Day
Set up an eco-friendly table by opting for reusable dishes, cutlery, and cloth napkins instead of disposables. If you don’t have enough, consider borrowing from friends or mix-and-match thrifted finds for a festive touch. For decor, skip plastic and bring the outdoors in– think pinecones, branches, squash, and bowls of apples or citrus for a touch of natural beauty.
After the Meal
Don’t let good food go to waste. Store leftovers in reusable containers and invite guests to bring their own to take some home. Get creative with extra food– turn turkey into soup or chili, mashed potatoes into patties, and overripe fruit into smoothies or baked treats. Freeze what you can’t eat right away or donate safe leftovers to your local food pantry. And remember, compost any scraps that can’t be eaten!
With a little mindfulness and creativity, we can enjoy a joyful Thanksgiving that’s easier on the planet and full of gratitude for the resources we share.
Putting the Garden to Bed is Just as Important as Waking It
Winterizing the WSU Community Garden is a key step in maintaining soil vitality. This process also provides us an opportunity to learn from past experiences, lik.png/Untitled-4 (12)__300x300.png)
e addressing the mildew issues that affected our pumpkins and cucumbers this year. Treating the soil now will help prevent those problems from returning next season.
This season has been a fruitful one. Over 82 pounds of produce was donated to the campus food pantry, helping to support food security efforts within our community. Additionally, 60 pounds of watermelon was shared with departments and volunteers.
Preparations for winter are underway. Tasks will include testing soil health, cleaning up garden beds, and performing general maintenance to ensure a healthy start for next year’s growing season. Keep an eye on GivePulse for upcoming volunteer opportunities to winterize the garden beds. The garden team will also be harvesting seeds from leftover crops, which will be given to volunteers as a thank-you for their help and dedication throughout the year.
To learn more about getting involved, contact gardenclub@weber.edu.
Welcome the New SPARC Staff
SPARC is excited to welcome two new members to our growing susta.png/Untitled-1 (11)__300x300.png)
inability team!
Rainbow Kunkel, Vice President of the Environmental Ambassadors Club, joins SPARC as the new Student Sustainability Engagement Coordinator. They are an Environmental Science major with a minor in Political Science. A lifelong Ogden resident, Rainbow’s passion for environmentalism is deeply rooted in Utah’s incredible natural diversity. They believe that nature, and our shared connection to it, has the power to bring people together. Outside of academics, Rainbow enjoys attending concerts, creating art, and connecting with others. They’re eager to bring fresh ideas, enthusiasm, and a deeper connection between sustainability and nature to student clubs across campus.
Don’t hesitate to say “hi!” if you see them around!
Brinley Boatright joins us as the new Student Sustainability Coordinator. Brinley is majoring in Geography with a concentration in Climate Science and is passionate about engaging fellow Wildcats in learning how collective action can make a lasting difference. Her love for travel has sparked a curiosity about how different regions around the world experience and adapt to the effects of climate change. Brinley believes that the most rewarding part of teaching others about sustainability is its potential to make the world a better place for everyone.
We are thrilled to have Rainbow and Brinley on board and look forward to the energy, insight, and inspiration they’ll bring to our sustainability initiatives!
Sustainability Snapshot: Zero Waste .png)
Join us for November’s Sustainability Snapshot to learn how faculty from diverse disciplines are integrating sustainability into their work. Kristen Arnold (Interior Design), Francesca Mintowt-Czyz (Theatre), and Bryan Dorsey (Geography, Environment & Sustainability) will share how they incorporate sustainability principles into their teaching, research, and special projects.
This session connects with November’s Green Badge theme of “Zero Waste” and highlights how different fields contribute to a more sustainable future.
All are welcome to attend!
Date: November 11
Time: 1:30 – 2:45 p.m.
Location: Hetzel-Hoellein Room, Stewart Library (LI-321)
Green Badge Program Update
.png)
Participate in the Green Badge Program and start earning your badges today!
October’s green badge will help you explore
“Zero Waste.”
Green Badge participants are building practical sustainability skills and sharing what they’ve learned with others. Last month’s activities consisted of learning about The Dignity Index; a tool designed to help people evaluate their language on an eight-point scale ranging from contempt to dignity. Scores from 1–4 reflect contempt-based language, while scores from 5–8 demonstrate communication based on dignity.
One participant reflected on the experience, sharing, “I love this index and I couldn’t agree with it more. We need this in practice more than ever! I feel like I am around a 6, so I have some work to do. I’ve always believed the quote, ‘It’s impossible to hate someone once you know their story.”
Does Your Department Have a Green Team? .png)
The Green Department Program is for faculty and staff to learn ways to make their departments or offices more sustainable. Green Teams work together to earn points and recognition by implementing change and taking actions outlined in a Green Team checklist.
Upcoming Events & Important Dates
Food Recoveries
Einstein Bros Bagels, Shepherd Union Building
Tuesdays and Thursdays
1 – 2:15 p.m.
Volunteer here
Thrifted Thursdays
The Bell Tower Plaza
Thursdays
10 – 11 a.m.
Learn more
Free Swap (Drop-off day)
Shepherd Union Ballroom B
Tuesday, November 11
8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Volunteer here
Sustainability Snapshots with SPARC: Zero Waste
Hetzel-Hoellein room in Stewart Library, LI-321
Tuesday, November 11
1:30 – 2:45 p.m.
Learn more
Free Swap (Pick-up day)
Shepherd Union Ballroom B
Wednesday, November 12
8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Volunteer here
Weber Basin Water Talks
Browning Theatre, Union Station
Wednesday, November 12
6 - 8:45 p.m.
Learn more
Zero Waste Lunch and Learn
Stewart Library, Hetzel-Hoellein Room (LI-321)
Wednesday, November 19
1 – 2 p.m.
Learn more
Meal Kit Building with Food Recovery Network
Einstein Bros Bagels, Shepherd Union Building
Wednesday, November 19
5 – 8 p.m.
Learn more
Sustainability Workforce Panel
Stewart Library, Hetzel-Hoellein Room (LI-321)
Thursday, November 20
1:30 – 2:45 p.m.
Learn more
Food Committee Meeting
Shepherd Union Building, Room 331
Thursday, November 20
2:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Learn more
Zero Waste Athletics - WSU vs Northern Arizona
Stewart Stadium
Saturday, November 22
12:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Register here
Sustainable gift wrapping with the Environmental Ambassadors Club
Shepherd Union Building
Monday, November 24
11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Learn more
Take the OGX to Kaffe Merc with the Environmental Ambassadors Club
Shepherd Union Building
Wednesday, November 26
12:30 – 1:30 p.m.weber st
Register here
News & Resources
Weber State student works to make pickleball more sustainable with recycled plastics | Fox 13 Utah
How the US cut climate-changing emissions while its economy more than doubled | The Conversation
EPA clears ‘major milestone’ for Lisbon Valley copper mine expansion | The Salt Lake Tribune
.png/Untitled-1 (14)__800x450.png)