The Appalachian Energy Summit continues toward the established 2025 goal of $2 billion in avoided energy costs for the UNC System and state agencies. Since 2002–03, the System and its partners have collectively avoided $1.75 billion in energy costs.

Construction for App State’s Conservatory for Biodiversity Education and Research — the first academic building of the university’s Innovation District — is set to begin in July. The facility, offering classroom, office, laboratory and event space, will be built to the rigorous sustainability standards of the Living Building Challenge.

App State continues to implement its sustainable purchasing initiative as part of the university’s Climate Action Plan, which guides App State’s progress toward climate neutrality. Sustainable purchasing is the practice of buying goods that mitigate negative effects on human health and the environment.

The App State-affiliated Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC) is a valued asset in the economic development infrastructure of North Carolina, serving as an advisory resource for growing and developing businesses. Learn more about two Hickory area small businesses that have worked with SBTDC to pursue their business goals.

For nearly 65 years, App State’s herbarium has served as a vital record of the flora biodiversity in the Southern Appalachian Mountains region. Faculty and students engage with its 30,000 specimens for teaching, research and plant conservation.