Environmental justice is the movement to address sustainability in a way that is inclusive to marginalized groups. The Laudato Si’ Action Platform, inspired by Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical “Laudato Si’, on Care for Our Common Home”, has set numerous sustainability-focused goals, among them standing in solidarity with vulnerable and marginalized groups in the fight for environmental justice. As one of the first universities in the world to sign on to the Laudato Si’ Action Platform, Catholic University strives to achieve this objective and meet the precedent set by the Church.
The Catholic University of America addresses environmental justice is by ensuring that community members facing financial and food insecurity have access to the resources they need.
Cardinal Cupboard. Cardinal Cupboard is the University's free food pantry. The Cupboard provides non-perishable food and toiletry items to members of the community experiencing food insecurity. Patrons may arrive at the pantry during open hours and shop on their own, or request that bag(s) be premade and available for pickup. Cardinal Cupboard is located in McMahon B05.
Cardinal Closet. Cardinal Closet is the University’s free thrift store. The Closet provides community members with access to clothing and household items free of charge. Cardinal Closet also offers professional clothing for interviews as well as maternity clothing. Cardinal Closet is located in McMahon B02.
Community Gardens. Catholic University’s community garden grows produce that is donated to Cardinal Cupboard. From 2022 - 2025, over 600 pounds of produce have been grown and donated each year by students and staff. Additionally, the Franciscan Monastery Garden Guild service site allows students to contribute to a community garden that donates thousands of pounds of produce each year to food pantries in the area.
Free Food Alert. Catholic University partners with Free Food Alert, a campus messaging platform to redistribute leftover food after events. Enrollment is simple; register online and reach out to sandovalc@cua.edu with any questions. Prior to partnering with Free Food Alert, Catholic U conducted food recoveries from Admissions Open Houses and other catered events on campus and provided the meals to various organizations serving vulnerable populations. From 2022 - 2024, These recoveries redirected over 1,400 pounds of food that would otherwise have been wasted.
Community Solar. Catholic University is home to the region's largest urban ground solar array on West Campus, which will eliminate the equivalent carbon dioxide emissions of nearly 800,630 gallons of gasoline. As a community solar project, the array provides locally-generated, clean energy to District households, small businesses, nonprofits, and seniors, with a focus on Ward 5 residents. The 20-year projected savings to District subscribers is $3.5 million.
Addressing Racial Inequity. The Sister Thea Bowman Committee was created in 2020 to study all facets of University operations and make recommendations concerning racial equality to the University leadership. The committee’s first report, released in 2022, aims to examine, assess, and make recommendations to improve the University’s efforts towards racial equity. The committee’s first report can be found here.