It's Time to Think Sustainably: Green Organizations at Purdue

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As engineers, we have the innate need to add to and make better. Cars, rockets, WiFi, irrigation systems, pharmaceuticals, prosthetics -- any field you name, we have likely left our footprints. However with today’s increased threat of global warming rising  to 1.5C-2C above pre-industrial temperatures, it is more crucial than ever, the actions we take as engineers are mindful of our rapidly changing world.

Members of the Sustainability Council at a Composting Event

Now, that’s some hefty information to understand. So let’s start at the beginning, where can you find people at Purdue with these interests?

  1. Air and Waste Management Association (PAWMA)

    1. This professional organization hosts a variety of activities catering towards learning about different environmental causes such as water quality, remediation, and management methods.

  2. American Society of Agricultural & Biological Engineers

    1. Are you an Agricultural or Biological Engineer? This is the place for you! This scientific organization focuses on the development of agricultural, food, and biological systems through engineering practices and is a great networking opportunity with professionals in the field.

  3. AQUEA: American Water Works Association (AWWA) and Indiana Water Environmental Association (AWEA) 

    1. Water insecurity is a global problem -- how can we ultimately make water safe and attainable for everyone? This chapter encourages students interested in water related issues to pursue their passions in their academic and professional careers. 

  4. Boiler Green Initiative (BGI)

    1. BGI currently focuses on projects centered in recycling and water management here on Purdue’s campus and in the greater Lafayette region. It’s a great starting point if you would like to get more involved in our local community!

  5. Botany Club

    1. Want to explore plant biology further? Here are the people you want to meet! No prerequisite of being a biologist necessary, just interest in creative projects, discussions, and nature walks to better understand the scientific and cultural importance of plants, fungi, and algae. 

  6. Chemical Engineering Sustainability initiative (CSi)

    1. Make change within the Forney Hall of Chemical Engineering by encouraging and fostering sustainable thinking within the undergraduate, graduate, and faculty populus! 

  7. Engineers for a Sustainable World (ESW)

    1. This club focuses on integrating sustainability-oriented designs into projects within Purdue and the greater West Lafayette region. Go check out their bicycle project used to produce zero electricity smoothies and their efforts to reorganize the recycling systems in place in our city!

  8. Environmental Science Club (ESC)

    1. ESC aims to accomplish three goals -- to learn from professors and field experts, to get involved in community projects and restore local areas, and bond with your fellow members through recreational nature activities.

  9. Green Greeks 

    1. 20% of undergraduates are members of a fraternity, sorority, or cooperative. This is a great demographic to increase sustainable development  by getting Greek housing more involved!

  10. Horticulture Society

    1. Another great plant and horticulture community to get involved with! Hear from guest speakers, recruiting companies, and get to bond with members through different events, parties, and sales.

  11. Purdue Student Sustainability Council (PSSC)

    1. Make Purdue more sustainable through working in committees targeting food waste in residence and dining halls, manage energy in buildings, build a machine to recycle 3D printed filaments, get involved in climate action in the Greater Lafayette region and more! 

  12. Purdue University Meteorological Association (PUMA)

    1. This is a unique club if you’re seeking out opportunities and support in learning  about the academic and career path of atmospheric sciences!

  13. Purdue University Geological Society (PUGS)

    1. Going from the sky back to Earth, this is another unique club which delves into geological sciences! 

  14. Society of Environmental and Ecological Engineers (SEEE)

    1. Find support within the Environmental and Ecological Engineering program to find like minded individuals increasing awareness efforts amongst students, faculty, and alumni.

  15. US Green Building Council Student Group at Purdue University (USGBC Student Group)

    1. Study, research, and find ways to adopt environmentally sustainable designs into constructing and operating buildings. Start learning these practices on campus, and get ready to expand them beyond in your career! 

  16. Purdue Carbon Neutrality

    1. Though not a club, this Carbon Net Neutrality movement is a collective effort currently being pushed forth by most organizations listed above.  


There are so many different ways to learn beyond our class walls and get involved in our community. Being involved in green organizations on campus has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my time here at Purdue, and I hope this helps you find a similar passion! 

Harini Radhakrishnan, ChE '23

Recruitment Project Committee


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