to our world. - NOLS

NOLS’ ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT
Creating a Climate For Change
Rainbow Weinstock
Part of the NOLS curriculum is environmental studies, and here at NOLS we take environmental issues seriously. We are striving as an organization to be a leader in sustainable
business practices. Arizona Creek, Wyoming
Let’s face it. NOLS students travel the globe
to far-flung locations. We use outdoor gear and
clothing made from synthetics derived from petroleum.
We hike and paddle in pristine wilderness.
NOLS makes a mark, and not just with the
incredible education our students receive.
Since 1965, NOLS has constantly refined
its environmental practices to minimize the footprint
we leave, whether we are educating students
in the backcountry or conducting business
around the world. We research, reduce, reuse,
recycle, and most importantly, lead by example.
MAXIMUM IMPACT EDUCATION
At the end of the day, our students and graduates are NOLS’ greatest contribution to the
environment. They experience our planet’s power and beauty, and they understand its fragility.
NOLS grads are skilled positive leaders with an environmental awareness and a strong
ethical foundation. Through our students, NOLS is creating a climate for change.
MINIMUM IMPACT PRACTICES
From our off-the-grid facility on Mexico’s Bahía Concepción to our geo-thermal facility in
Chile, NOLS has a long tradition of finding unique and environmentally responsible ways
of supporting our educational expeditions. We’ve made a centralized and coordinated effort
to strengthen our environmental sustainability practices at every level schoolwide.
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVE
The NOLS Sustainability Initiative gained even more momentum this year. Sustainability
at NOLS doesn’t mean just reducing our impact; we want to teach others how to as well.
Our five-year plan includes goals pertaining to conservation, education, and outreach, and
we made significant strides in each of these areas.
Highlights from 2010:
• Exceeded our 2010 schoolwide carbon goal of a 10% reduction below 2006 levels.
• Received over $370,000 in grant funding to retrofit our Wyoming facilities for greater
energy efficiency.
• NOLS Teton Valley’s solar project (grant and NOLS funded) will cover nearly 30% of
their energy usage.
110
www.nols.edu • (800) 710-NOLS • admissions@nols.edu