Sustainability at Interlochen
As an institution that sees itself as a change maker and leader in sustainability, we constantly strive to educate ourselves and our community. We do our utmost to promote the unique synergy that exists between artistic creation and stewardship of our natural world.
View our Climate Action Plan to learn more about the strategies to achieve our sustainability goals.
Sustainability Lecture Series
Enjoy one or several community classes focused on creative sustainability and exploration of nature. Our goal is to inspire adult learners to interact with our local environment in a positive way. We explore cooking, artistry, and ecology while providing an educational and exciting learning experience for all.
Sustainability by the numbers
Water Bottle Filling Stations
We provide several WaterSense water bottle filling stations throughout campus to lower our plastic waste. View our map to find one near you.
Learning and Engagement
Interlochen Center for the Arts is committed to stewarding the environment to the best of our ability. As we continue to act on that responsibility, we also commit ourselves to sharing this passion with others. In doing so, we ensure that our care for the environment doesn’t stop with us. As leaders and change makers in the sustainability field, we inspire our community—and the next generation—to see just how much we all depend on the natural world. Every positive action we take will create a better future for us all.
Sustainable Operations
With an organization of Interlochen’s size, it’s important that we see all of our operations—the things we do on a daily basis to stay running—as opportunities to steward what’s been given to us. By 2028, we will ensure that our land use, transportation options, dining services, waste management, and purchasing all occur in a way that protects and preserves our environment. We support our artistic and cultural mission by making it sustainable for years to come.
Buildings and Energy
Interlochen’s buildings are a visual and functional reminder of everything we stand for. As we continue to make room for our growing creative community, it’s important to consider the impact each of our buildings has on the environment. Creating guidelines for construction, electrical use, and emissions helps ensure that Interlochen enters its centennial with the tools to last for another century.
Volunteer with Interlochen’s Sustainability Department
We are pleased to offer a variety of volunteer opportunities including work at our pollinator gardens, hoop houses, lakeshore restoration sites, and other vital areas on campus. There are tasks available for every ability, and you can sign up for a time shift that works for your schedule. If you are interested in helping, please fill out the Volunteer Form.
Our Grant Funding Partners
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Allen Foundation
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R.B. Annis Foundation
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American Heart Association
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U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
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Michigan Association of Environmental Professionals (MAEP)
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Michigan Alliance for Environmental and Outdoor Education (MAEOE)
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Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
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High Mowing Seeds
Community Supported Agriculture
Each summer, Interlochen’s Sustainability Department partners with MI Farm Cooperative to make Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) farm shares available to our local community. Enjoy weekly boxes of produce from area farms, including fresh fruit and vegetables, bread, eggs, and more.
Our Community Partnerships
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Northwest Education Services
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Northwestern Michigan College
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Redeemer of Interlochen Food Pantry
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Westwoods Elementary School
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Great Lakes Incubator Farm
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Munson Family Practice
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Grand Traverse Conservation District
Sustainability stories at Interlochen
Instructor of Film & New Media Nathan Buck shares highlights of the summer and fall—from filming in three states to welcoming a new team member.
The project, which involved Arts Camp students, staff, and faculty members, was part of an ongoing effort by Interlochen to support and raise awareness for this native species.
From honey tasting to the art of bonsai, there’s something for everyone in this year’s lineup.