Sustainability Week

The Taft community recently took part in a weeklong initiative designed to both raise awareness about environmental issues and actively engage in sustainability-driven activities.

“Our program was both modeled after and coincided with a statewide, higher education collaboration,” explained Taft’s Director of Environmental Stewardship Carly Borken. “Colleges and universities across Connecticut hosted events throughout the week that not only stimulated conversation, but also built connections and inspired action. It is a concept and opportunity that lent itself well to our own community, and to Taft’s commitment to sustainability.”

At the college level, the event is coordinated by the Connecticut Alliance for Campus Sustainability. At Taft, Borken worked closely with student Eco Mons to plan a week that combined fun with learning, while shining a light on campus sustainability. The program included a Morning Meeting and conversations with Elizabeth Kolbert, author of Taft summer reading selection The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History; a debate around the question, "Can capitalism and the climate ever be friends?"; a silent dance; an energy audit competition; and movie screenings.

Teams of students also sent original fashion made from trash and other natural materials down the Bingham “runway” during Taft’s first “Trashion Show.”

“It was an opportunity for a little fun and a lot of creativity. It allowed us to celebrate art and individuality while embracing thoughtful recycling and sustainability,” said Borken.