Sustainability supports the health and vitality of the environment, world economy, and human population by promoting the conservative use of finite resources.
If you are interested in learning more about what this entails and finding out how you and your family can become more environmentally sustainable, the UA Library can help.
Explore the many resources available through the UA Library featured in this subject guide.
For more information, contact the Reference Department at 614-486-3342 or email us at reference@ualibrary.org.
Indexes / Databases
You’ll just need your UA Library card number and PIN to access the following research databases.
- ConsumerReports.org – If you want to make more sustainable purchasing choices, make sure you use your UA Library card to check Consumer Reports. They have a Green Choice program to point out high-performing and eco-friendly products.
- Gale in Context: Science – Use search words like “sustainability”, “environmental science”, “green engineering”, and “recycling” to find informative topic pages with encyclopedia entries, magazine articles, news stories, videos, and much more.
- GreenFILE – This database offers well-researched information on all aspects of human impact to the environment, including global warming, green building, pollution, sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, recycling, and more.
- National Geographic Virtual Library – This database includes the full run of National Geographic magazine. Under “Explore Topics” you can select “Environment” to read relevant articles.
- Gale Reference eBooks on Environmental Sustainability – Our collection of reference eBooks are always available for use by UA Library cardholders. Titles related to this topic include:
Explore our lists of consumer- and science-related research databases for other resources with material on this subject.
Journals / Magazines
Current issues of the following magazines are available for checking out, and in some cases, you can browse older issues in the Reference Department of the Tremont Branch Library.
- Audubon
- Horticulture
- Mother Earth News
- National Geographic
- National Parks
- National Wildlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Permaculture
Websites
Local Organizations
- Sustainable UA – This organization is dedicated to improving the environment in Upper Arlington through action, collaboration, education, and engagement. Learn how you can get involved.
- Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District – This organization offers conservation resources and referrals.
- The Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO) – In addition to their recycling program, SWACO provides resources and community outreach programs to educate people on why it’s important to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
- Wild Ones Columbus Chapter – This nonprofit promotes environmentally sound landscaping practices, and offers free educational programs open to the public.
National/International Organizations
- United States Environmental Protection Agency: Sustainability – Learn about sustainability and find out what you can do.
- United Nations Sustainable Development Goals – The 17 goals outlined by this division of the UN provide a blueprint for peace and prosperity for all people and our planet.
Search Starters
The following links will take you to lists of books, magazines, movies and more about these topics.