Campus recreation centers are a hub for student engagement and overall well-being. In fact, 75% of students use on-campus recreation center facilities, and 68% of students report campus recreation facilities influenced their decision of which school to attend.
Gen Z and Sustainability
Today’s Gen Z students are very conscientious when it comes to the environment and climate change.
Overwhelmingly, they’re willing to take action to minimize their impact on the environment by doing things like not driving a car, avoiding fast fashion, making their homes more energy efficient and eating a vegetarian diet. Some are already addressing climate change by donating money, volunteering, attending rallies and contacting elected officials.
Gen Z has a huge influence on the economy because they’re not just patrons, they’re influencers and their opinions toward sustainability are becoming a huge driving force for other consumers. They’re not opposed to advocating for their needs and wants in every realm of life: education, politics, careers and even fitness. If you don’t meet the needs and wants of Gen Z, they’ll advocate for what they believe is right.
Gen Z’s lifestyle choices differ from previous generations in a variety of ways, especially as it relates to the importance they place on sustainability and green living.
As far as fitness goes, Gen Z is the most active generation in the fitness industry, with 87% exercising three or more times per week. Among gym-goers, 80% consider environmental friendliness an essential factor when choosing a fitness facility, which takes us back to the choice in schools.
How to Make Your Rec Center More Environment-Friendly
So, if you’re thinking about implementing some sustainable changes in your rec center, you’ll have to think beyond shutting off lights in empty rooms and recycling. From office supplies to cleaning supplies, there are a lot of changes you can make for an environment-friendly facility. Going paperless. Using LED bulbs. Adjusting water flow in toilets, showers and fountains. Using eco-friendly cleaning practices and HVAC systems. Installing sustainable flooring. Controlling temperature efficiently. Decorating with real plants. Investing in energy-efficient cardio fitness equipment.
That’s right, cardio fitness equipment doesn’t have to be a drain on your electrical grid. Innovative technology exists that harnesses human movement and converts it into reusable energy for your facility — capable of producing up to 250 watt-hours of electricity.
Incorporating sustainable practices into your gym is not only an environmentally responsible choice but also a strategic move for your recreation center, your campus and your school as a leader in sustainability.
Ruben Mejia is the executive vice president of SportsArt America. Email info@gosportsart.com or visit gosportsart.com for more information.
