Environment, Society, and Sustainability Institute: Indiana University

Our Mission

By bringing together faculty, students, and staff from across Indiana University, ESSI is your hub for academics, research, creative activities, and organizations focusing on the environment.

ESSI is jointly administered by the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, the School of Public Health, and the College of Arts and Sciences. Our interdisciplinary nature reflects a commitment to preparing the next generation of scientists, policymakers, communicators, and leaders who face significant and complex environmental and sustainability challenges.

We are committed to fostering a supportive environment where all students thrive. With strong support systems, forward-thinking programs, and a community that values collaboration, critical thinking, and personal growth, we empower students to pursue their aspirations and become impactful leaders in their communities.

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35Environmental degree programs

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GOLDSustainability ranking awarded to Indiana University-Bloomington

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EXPERTISEAffiliated faculty collaborate and share knowledge

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IU Research & Teaching Preserve

Natural field settings for research, teaching, and discovery

The Environment, Society, and Sustainability Institute (ESSI) manages the Indiana University Research and Teaching Preserve, a nearly 1,600-acre space dedicated to hands-on learning and research. The Preserve features diverse habitats—including forests at different stages of growth, old fields, ridge and ravine landscapes, lakes, and a large perennial stream—along with a 6,000-square-foot field lab. Located close to campus, the Preserve supports research, teaching, and outreach that complement IU’s existing facilities and infrastructure.

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The environmental issues we face require skills, experiences, insights, and people from all fields. If you're at IU and you're ready to build a more sustainable world, please join us at ESSI.
—Dr. Sarah Osterhoudt, Director of ESSI, Associate Professor of Anthropology

Support our mission

If you would like to help us sustain our efforts through student scholarships or support for our programming, please consider giving now online or contact us with your specific interests.