Nurturing our elm for years to come | |
Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) Conference in Baltimore
The University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) is proud to be a host institution for the 2026 AASHE Conference & Expo, taking place in Baltimore. As one of the premier sustainability conferences for higher education professionals, the event brings together leaders, practitioners, researchers, and students to share innovative solutions and best practices that advance sustainability on campuses and in communities.
UMB is partnering with fellow University System of Maryland institutions and other regional organizations to welcome attendees from across the country and showcase the sustainability work happening throughout Maryland.
A registration discount is available through UMB and other host institutions. For more information on the conference and how to access the discounted registration rate, please contact sustainability@umaryland.edu.
| |
Campus Energy Management Updates and Local Cooling Centers
In response to hot weather, UMB is expanding its energy management efforts to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and support grid reliability. Several campuswide updates will roll out this summer.
Baltimore City activates Code Red Extreme Heat Alerts when the forecasted heat index reaches 105°F or higher. During these alerts, cooling centers open to provide relief, cold water, and sometimes snacks or meals. Residents can call 311 for real-time information on active cooling centers, hours, and safety tips for heat-related illness.
Read about the campus energy management updates and explore a list of Maryland's cooling centers.
| |
August SustainabiliTea Session
Tuesday, Aug. 4, 9 a.m.
In Person, 620 W. Lexington St., Sixth Floor
The Office of Sustainability will be hosting our in-person open office hour on the sixth floor of the Lexington Building. Stop by to say hello, ask questions, or share ideas. BYOM (bring your own mug) to sample our tea and coffee collection!
Join the Sustainability Community Microsoft Team to learn more.
| |
August Walking Wednesdays!
Join the Office of Sustainability for Walking Wednesdays every second and fourth Wednesday! Meet at the Lexington Building at 12 p.m. to go on an approximately 30- to 45-minute walk with us around campus.
August Dates:
-
Aug. 12, 12 p.m.-12:45 p.m. with special guests Officer Summers and police comfort K9, Poe
- Aug. 26, 12 p.m.-12:45 p.m.
Join the Sustainability Community Microsoft Team and follow the Walking Wednesday Channel for the most up-to-date information and reminders.
| |
Baltimore Area in Drought Watch
During the summer months, the Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW), in coordination with Baltimore, Harford, Howard, and Carroll counties, is issuing voluntary water restrictions due to low water levels in the city’s three reservoirs, which supply drinking water to 1.8 million people across Baltimore City and the surrounding region. Residents and other water customers who use public water in the Baltimore region are urged to limit nonessential water use. Check our Monthly Green Tip below to see conservation tips.
Read the DPW announcement.
| | | |
Pamela Casper
Pamela Casper was born and raised in New York City and attended Swarthmore College, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and studied painting with Harriet Shorr. Casper's background in painting and biology informs her art, combining creativity with scientific and environmental insight. The image on the left is called Underground Symposium and depicts an imagined view of the caverns in the soil and the life that abounds there. Her work was recently highlighted at the Baltimore art incubator, The Crow's Nest.
Explore Casper's work.
| | Get Involved in Baltimore | | |
Sustainability Term of the Month
Permeable Hardscapes: Permeable hardscapes help manage stormwater (surface water from heavy rains or snow) and are an alternative to hard surfaces. Materials used as permeable hardscapes allow stormwater to seep into the ground (permeate) rather than pool in low spots or run off into storm drains or local streams. Permeable hardscapes can be used for driveways, pathways, patios, and anywhere a hard surface is desired. Using permeable hardscapes can help reduce flooding, replenish valuable groundwater supplies, and lower the amount of pollution that goes into local rivers and streams.
Learn more about permeable hardscapes with this fact sheet from University of Maryland Extension.
| | Initiative Highlight of the Month | |
UMB Shuttle
The UMB shuttle contributes to a vibrant, dynamic University community by transporting UMB students, faculty, and staff to and from UMB. The UMB shuttle provides bus routes that travel to neighborhoods such as Federal Hill and Canton/Fells Point. Beginning in January 2027, UMB will launch a new transportation program — called UMB Connect — that is designed to enhance how students and employees move on and around campus.
Explore the shuttle routes and UMB Connect.
| | Received this newsletter from a friend? Get the latest information on events and volunteer opportunities directly. | |  | Have an upcoming event or opportunity related to sustainability, the environment, or social equity and justice? Tell us about it! | | | Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more event information and resources. | | | | |
