November 16-20, 2026

The annual Ecochallenge event is run in coordination with International Education Week - a weeklong celebration run by the UR Center for Global Engagement. Each year, the Center for Global Engagement chooses a country to be the focus on this week. This year, we will be taking a deep dive into Sweden!

The International Education Week Ecochallenge is an opportunity to learn more about the culture, history, and current challenges and successes of Sweden through a sustainability lens. This is an opportunity for us to make connections between our actions and experiences here at UR with communities in another country. 

In addition to learning more about Sweden, this is also an opportunity to connect with friends, colleagues, neighbors, or acquaintances, and together, commit to sustainable actions as a team or as an individual to win points and earn prizes through the daily actions in the Ecochallenge! That's right, prizes will be given to those who earn the most points at the end of the Ecochallenge week. 

Daily Themes

Day 1: Rethink Waste

Explore how waste is managed — both here at the University of Richmond and across the globe in Sweden. Learn more about Sweden's high-functioning waste management systems.

Example Actions:
Learn about Waste Challenges and Initiatives in Sweden
Test Your Waste Knowledge: Rethink Waste 201
Live the Refill Life

Day 2: Innovation & Collaboration

Did you know that Sweden is ranked amongst the top innovative countries in the world? Learn more about how Sweden leads the ranks in creativity and how they are weaving sustainability into this work. 

Example Actions
Learn about the Swedish Fika
Learn About Sustainable Swedish Innovations
Explore the Swedish Metro: The World's Longest Art Gallery

Day 3: Thrifting

In Sweden, it's all about simplicity: appreciating what one has and utilizing what already exists! Thrifting is a huge part of Sweden's culture, much like many parts of the United States. Today, consider where you could go second-hand instead of purchasing something new. 

Example Actions

Learn About Thrifting Culture in Sweden
Wear a Thrifted Outfit
Visit a Local Thrift Store

Day 4: Biodiversity & Conservation

Together, we’ll explore how local stewardship and global and local partnerships can restore ecosystems, protect biodiversity, and inspire a new mindset for preserving what is essential to life, our well-being, and Mother Nature.  

Example Actions

Learn About Nature and Wildlife in Sweden
Take and Send a Photo of Flora or Fauna
Learn About the Importance of Native Species

Day 5: Nature Connection

Friday invites us to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with the natural world. Today celebrates our shared relationship with the living world — from the Eco-Corridor to Sweden's waterways and natural corridors. 

 
Example Actions:

Talk a Walk Outdoors
Explore Health Benefits of Being Outdoors
Learn About Artipelag

This week is a phenomenal opportunity for learning, engagement, and partnership across campus. Find new ways to incorporate sustainable living into your daily life, connect with new peers, and earn points to win prizes! Sign up for this year's Ecochallenge starting on November 3. 

Ecochallenge Events