Re:wild Your Campus

Did you know that spending time with plants and embracing the natural world can do wonders for your mental and physical health? This fascinating New Scientist article dives deep into how botany can reduce anxiety, boost health, and reconnect us with the healing properties of nature. At Rewild Your Campus, we champion the idea that nature is not just something to admire from afar - it's an essential part of our lives and well-being. Whether it's by introducing native plants, nurturing sustainable landscapes, or simply appreciating the beauty of a "weed," we’re transforming the way campuses engage with the environment. Explore how botany is shaping the future of health and find inspiration to bring a little more green into your life: https://lnkd.in/ebiUPthF

?? Monarch butterflies are in danger, and urban pesticides are a major threat. Last year, Pacific Grove Monarch Sanctuary became the site of a heartbreaking discovery - hundreds of monarchs were found convulsing and dying. A USGS analysis confirmed pesticide poisoning, with each butterfly exposed to an average of seven different pesticides, including lethal levels of pyrethroid insecticides. The lack of pesticide reporting from homeowners and businesses makes it nearly impossible to trace the source of these toxins, leaving pollinators vulnerable. If you’re passionate about protecting and supporting the Monarch with, sign the open letter from the Xerces Society, calling for federal protections. Monarchs play a vital role in our ecosystems. It’s time to take action before it’s too late. https://lnkd.in/gittfXrN #PollinatorProtection #SaveTheMonarchs #SustainableLandscaping

UCLA has become the first school in California to receive our Green Grounds Certification! UCLA is now Green Grounds Certified at the Gold level in recognition their work to eliminate pesticide use on over 90% of campus grounds as well as their efforts to increase native plantings. We are so proud of all of the work that the UCLA Office of Sustainability and the UCLA Landscape and Grounds Staff have done to turn the UCLA campus into an example for schools across the state and country! ??

We’re excited to share this feature from UCLA Newsroom highlighting the university’s transition to organic land management. UCLA now manages over 90% of its landscape without pesticides, a shift made possible through the dedication of UCLA Facilities Management, UCLA Sustainability, and other campus programs. This work is also guided by the knowledge and recommendations of the Gabrielino-Tongva tribe, the original caretakers of this land. UCLA’s commitment to ecological stewardship has earned it California’s first-ever Green Grounds Certification, a milestone that proves large institutions can successfully eliminate pesticides and prioritize sustainable land care. Check it out and get inspired to bring these changes to more universities! https://lnkd.in/gyXnRBtU

?? URGENT: Local Pesticide Protections Under Threat! ?? The EPA is considering a petition that could strip local communities of their ability to regulate pesticide use, potentially overturning critical protections that keep pesticides away from schools, parks, and public spaces. This move would put corporate interests over public health and environmental safety. We can’t let this happen. Now is the time to take a stand. Public comments are open until February 20 Community-driven regulations are essential in keeping our shared spaces safe. If we don’t speak up, we risk losing the ability to protect our neighborhoods from pesticide harm. @ someone below to spread the word! Make a public comment: https://lnkd.in/euw4gMt4

?? Exciting sustainability updates from Agnes Scott College! Last week, students gathered to plan the next phase of their campus garden, a project that seamlessly blends academics, creativity, and ecological stewardship. By incorporating native plants, they are restoring biodiversity, supporting pollinators, and shaping a more sustainable future. ???? This initiative highlights the power of hands-on learning and collaborative action in environmental restoration. We look forward to seeing their vision take root! #Sustainability #NativePlants #HandsOnLearning #AgnesScottCollege #EnvironmentalStewardship

We’re proud to report that UCLA has earned our Green Grounds Certification at the Gold Level, showcasing their dedication to sustainable land care! Over the past decade, UCLA has been transforming turf into native and drought-tolerant landscapes, with recent efforts aligning with their Landscape Plan’s native plant palette. Most notably, they’ve converted over 30,000 square feet of turf into California native drought-tolerant plantings, entirely free of synthetic pesticides. Today, 95% of UCLA’s campus grounds are managed without synthetic pesticides or herbicides. UCLA’s commitment serves as a model for campuses striving to create healthier, more sustainable environments.

We’re proud to announce that Prescott College has achieved our Green Grounds Certification at the Platinum Level! For over a decade, Prescott College has proudly maintained a pesticide-free campus, setting a high standard for sustainable land care. Their approach focuses on prevention, using methods like mulching with their own wood chips, sealing buildings to reduce attractants, and following best-management practices for composting systems. Prescott also embraces a "wild" landscaping philosophy, prioritizing native plants to create natural habitats that support diverse wildlife. Their efforts reflect a deep commitment to sustainability and a harmonious relationship with the environment.

This fall, Agnes Scott College took an inspiring step toward sustainability by breaking ground on a project to revitalize the green spaces around the Dana Fine Arts Building! This collaborative initiative focuses on removing invasive species and replacing them with native plants to boost biodiversity and support pollinators. In line with the college’s sustainability goals, these newly transformed areas will be maintained entirely without synthetic herbicides, marking the third organic land care project on campus. We’re so proud of the students and faculty who continue to set an example in climate resilience and environmental stewardship, paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.?

?? Ready to make a difference on your campus? Our Ground Up Advocacy Boot Camp equips students with the tools to combat climate change and biodiversity loss at the local level. But don’t just hear it from us - hear from Sean, one of our inspiring 2022 boot camp alums. During his time at Drexel University, Sean turned his passion for sustainability into action attending our boot camp and leading his own RYC chapter at his college. Now as a senior, he’s helping lead Drexel University through a full transition to organic land care practices. From advocating for policy changes to rallying support across campus, Sean’s journey proves that student leaders can drive meaningful, lasting change. This could be YOUR college next! Join us virtually on January 21–22 from 3–5:30 PM PT / 6–8:30 PM ET and learn how to lead impactful change on your campus. https://lnkd.in/e6RQV-45