Green Office Challenge

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Last Updated: May 06, 2026, 10:26 AM

The Sustainability Office at SIU is excited to announce the launch of the Green Office Challenge, an engaging initiative designed to inspire faculty and staff to adopt more sustainable practices in their workplaces. This challenge, part of the University’s celebration of Sustainability Month in October, is an opportunity for departments across campus to compete and collaborate on reducing their environmental impact.

The Green Office Challenge will kick off in October, with departments encouraged to implement simple but effective strategies to reduce energy usage, minimize waste, and promote a culture of sustainability. Participants will earn points by completing a variety of sustainable actions and practices, and prizes will be awarded to top-performing teams.

Key Focus Areas for the Challenge Include:

  • Energy Efficiency: Turning off lights and electronic devices when not in use, encourage sustainable commuting practices.
  • Waste Reduction: Reducing waste associated with coffee, increasing ink and toner recycling.
  • Green Office Environment: Incorporating plants and greenery in the office.

Green office challenge flyer

How it Works:

  • Faculty and staff can register their department or office by registering here.
  • Each office will receive a checklist of sustainability actions, such as reducing coffee waste, making over the office, and holding energy audits.
  • Teams will track their progress using a points system, with the most sustainable offices earning recognition and awards.

We are thrilled to announce that the winner of this Fall's Green Office Challenge is Mary Fischer in ECTM Advisement! We would like to congratulate on her outstanding commitment and innovative approaches to sustainability. Timely report submissions, allowing our team to visit and witness the progress firsthand, and creating a welcoming, eco-friendly environment for students in the advisement office truly stood out. The focus on making sustainability a part of everyday office culture earned her this recognition. Take a look at some of the images from her office below!

ECTM Office - Green Office Challenge