Poole, LaurenColorado School of Mines. Sustainability Office2025-09-252025-09-252023-07-05https://hdl.handle.net/11124/181036During 2020-2021, a global pandemic challenged the Colorado School of Mines’ (Mines’) commitment to sustainability. Mines had to quickly transition to online learning platforms and remote work for staff. When classes resumed in person in 2021, despite the lingering impacts of the pandemic, students and faculty came back to campus eager to learn. Health and safety were still top priority. Facilities staff reduced the spread of COVID-19 by conducting full building air flushes (periodically replacing indoor air with fresh air at set intervals), which increased energy consumption. Plastic waste increased due to a higher demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) like disposable masks and gloves. Many dining areas switched to disposable plates, cups, and utensils during the pandemic to prevent spread of COVID-19. Energy costs have also increased due to inflation. Despite all the challenges, Mines reduced greenhouse gas emissions from buildings and transportation, two of the largest sources of emissions, when campus returned to normal occupancy and operations. Mines also continues to make progress in campus water and waste reduction. Academia expanded sustainability educational opportunities. While our sustainability related research received national attention.reportengCopyright of the original work is retained by the Colorado School of Mines Sustainability OfficesustainabilityText