DSO Special Project & Initiatives: Wold Johnson Sustainability Initiatives

Wold Johnson Sustainability Initiatives

Special Project & Initiatives
Students discuss topics of climate at the climate action camp during wintersession.

About 

The Betty Wold Johnson Foundation Undergraduate Fund for Sustainability and the Environment supports teaching, student activities, research, and other activities related to the undergraduate study of sustainability and/or the environment.

Climate Action Camp

This Wintersession, we hosted our first Climate Action Camp. We had a great group of 22 students from all class years come together to learn together and think creatively about sustainability solutions. During the camp, they: 

  

  • Took part in a workshop to visualize the connections between human choices and environmental impact 
  • Visited Eastie Farm, in an area of Boston where climate change’s impact is already visible, and 
  • Heard from faculty across the University working on topics related to sustainability and/or the environment.   

  

A central goal of the Climate Action Camp was to help students connect and extend their learning from their courses and from the camp by planning an educational program for their peers in their residential communities. 

College News

Harvard’s Action Camp for the Planet

Harvard University's Climate Action Camp transformed its campus into a think tank of bold ideas, emotional conversations, and action-driven solutions. This wasn't just another academic conference or a regular camp; it was a launchpad for the planet's future.

Read about the climate action camp
Students visit Eastie Farms to explore geothermal energy solutions and engage in a hands-on climate game, learning about sustainable practices and the impacts of climate action.

Residential Programming Snapshot

Through the Betty Wold Johnson gift, residential communities have been able to engage in a wide range of activities, from dinners with leading researchers to bird watching and community gardening.

 

Questions or more information? Reach out to us at dsoclimateinitiatives@fas.harvard.edu.

Students at Annenberg learn more about sustainable & climate-friendly food options.

First-year students enjoyed a sustainability-themed enhanced Brain Break, featuring smoothies and a chance for students to connect with climate and sustainability-focused student organizations across campus. 

Staying Rooted at Harvard Forest

College News

Amid peak fall foliage, students gathered for a weekend Rooted Accountability retreat to reflect on Indigenous history and deepen their understanding of climate science. Organized by Mather House tutor Mauro Morabito, the trip brought nearly 40 students and tutors across upperclassmen houses and the Dudley community to the Harvard Forest.

Read more about the retreat
Five students crouch down near the ground for a photo in the Harvard Forest during a sustainability retreat.
College News

Living Communities Camp Builds Sustainability Consciousness

Overlooking campus from the Beren Rooftop Room of Winthrop House, a group of Harvard College students explored sustainability, relationships, and resilience through the weeklong Living Communities Camp.

Read the full article
Students in the Beren Rooftop Room in Winthrop House listening to speakers discuss sustainability.
Students in a green house during a sustainability program.
Students exploring a green house site during a sustainability program.
A facilitator talks to students outside in front of a grate during a sustainability program.