At FIT, sustainability is a core value that infuses every aspect of the college—from curriculum to campus operations and architecture to the daily decisions we make.

FIT has made a strong and visible commitment to sustainability leadership. Our goal is to change thinking and practice, show that sustainability is possible for a large institution, and provide a model for other organizations.

Sustainability: A Core Value

Sustainability became a focus at FIT as faculty, students, and administrators increasingly expressed concern about climate change and about campus and industry operations that were harming the environment. The college’s Strategic Plan committed to instituting sustainable practices and reducing FIT’s carbon footprint. The first annual Sustainable Business and Design Conference was held in 2007, and President Brown established the FIT Sustainability Council in 2008. The council organizes the conference, develops initiatives throughout the community, and awards grants to support campus projects.

students in FIT sustainability course

Become an environmentally conscious, creative, and strategic thinker through our academic programs. Develop insights into sustainable principles and practices, and learn to think and act purposefully to create change.

Programs, courses, and projects 

FIT faculty and student working on sustainability project together

As a member of the FIT community—students, faculty, and staff—you can find opportunities that promote and further sustainability on campus and beyond.

Take Action

Sustainability Resources

Commitment to a Greener Campus

As a large urban campus, FIT recognizes that our infrastructure, architecture, and operations offer many opportunities to integrate sustainable practices and reduce our carbon footprint. Since being the first institution among New York’s colleges and hospitals to meet (and exceed) the 2007 Mayor’s Carbon Challenge, FIT has continually expanded its initiatives, from installing green roofs to using better materials and equipment in construction and renovation projects to recycling efforts on campus.

Annual Conferences and Events

FIT organizes and hosts events that promote sustainability awareness and practice.

Working Towards a More Sustainable Future

On-campus efforts and events contribute to our dedication to furthering the college's sustainablity initiative.
In the fight against climate change, FIT installed a new energy-efficient air-cooling system that makes maintaining a comfortable indoor climate significantly less energy-intensive.
FIT’s 19th Annual Sustainable Business and Design Conference, Charting a Course Toward Circularity, showcased leaders advancing zero-waste, closed-loop systems in fashion. Over two days, speakers shared strategies, emphasized collaboration, and encouraged continued efforts toward industry reform.
FIT sustainability fair

8 Practical Ways to Live More Sustainably

At FIT, sustainability is a shared value. From campus to community, students, staff, and faculty are making an impact—and you’re invited to join them..

Learn More

Contact Us

Karen Pearson
Chair, Sustainability Council
[email protected]