By Sofia Bassios and Lavinia Shapumba
When your news feed is inundated by melting glaciers, biodiversity loss and extreme pollution, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the environmental crisis. This overwhelm and climate anxiety can make anyone feel helpless, but small sustainable choices should be simple. If you’ve ever hesitated in front of the recycling bin, here is an introduction to sustainability on campus.
Stellenbosch University (SU) has committed to achieve net zero status by 2050 and has eight sustainability themes: energy and emissions, water, waste, biodiversity and land use, travel and mobility, sustainable buildings, goods and services, and engagement. Director of Property Services, Nadeem Gafieldien says, “Through greywater systems, we have achieved a 50% reduction in potable-water consumption on campus,” showing that tangible progress is being made. Chief Director of Facilities Management, Nicolette van den Eijkel has stated that SU considers the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, the National Development Plan and the African Union’s Agenda 2063 in pursuing local environmental sustainability.
However, a large institutional effort can only be fully realised with student co-operation. One of the most visible systems on campus is the bin system. Although bins are painted to indicate their purpose, many students are unsure what belongs in them. Is that wrapper recyclable? Should food waste go into general waste or compost? This confusion leads to contamination, where recyclables become unusable. Thomas Muir and Hannah Sieberhagen, HCs of Sustainability at Metanoia and Harmonie respectively, say, “One of the biggest struggles we have is getting students to sort their waste correctly,” and describe how sustainability teams across campus are constantly working to raise awareness about correct waste disposal.
Beyond waste management, students can actively shape a more sustainable campus culture through small, consistent actions. Carrying reusable water bottles and coffee cups, reducing single-use plastics, and being mindful of electricity and water usage all contribute to lowering one’s environmental footprint. Choosing to walk, cycle, or carpool instead of driving alone further reduces carbon emissions. Students can also get involved in their residences and Commuter Student Communities (CSC) Sustainability Committees, and Eco-Maties initiatives to contribute to Stellenbosch’s sustainability goals.
As students, the impact our choices make on the planet is difficult to ignore. A truly sustainable campus is one where awareness meets action – where every student understands their role and is empowered to make a difference.
