Keeping Biology in Mind: Students Making College Campuses Greener

Over the summer we'll be telling you about how some college students and faculty members are working together to implement green projects on their respective campuses. These projects not only benefit Mother Nature, but also foster an appreciation for environmental awareness in the minds of volunteers of all ages.

Our first project takes place at Butler University: 

In May 2012, a 1,300-square-foot green roof was installed on the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences Building – the first such installation on the Indianapolis campus. Sarah Strobl, who is studying to be a scientist, spearheaded the project and secured funding through the Student Government Association. She also conducted feasibility studies and consulted a number of green roof manufacturers. The project involved landscape and roofing contractors, architects and a team of student and faculty volunteers. University officials hope the roof will serve students not only as an attractive gathering spot, but also a scientific research aid.

Butler University's Sarah Strobl
photo courtesy of upontheroof.org