Solutions from the Previous Years
Challenge is heading into another year of innovation with the Bronco Challenge. Building on the success of the past three years, where projects like Rooted, EcoCH4ge, and Fabric Futures made a big difference, this year's challenge invites students to come up with innovative solutions to pressing sustainability issues. Students can put their creative ideas into effect by increasing ethical behaviors, promoting eco-friendly purchasing choices, or improving waste disposal through this competition. Don't miss this opportunity to contribute to a sustainable future.
(Check out the presentations videos from the past three years of challenges below.)
Reflections from our First place winners
The Challenge was an incredible opportunity for us to dive deeper into sustainability and discover ways to take meaningful action. In creating our innovation Rooted, we learned a lot about problem-solving and how we as individuals and a team can take steps to address the environmental crises our world is facing. Rooted is a mobile app designed to make climate action easy, rewarding, and community driven.
This journey taught us the value of collaboration, communication and adaptability. We came to see that sustainability is not just environmental, it’s economic, emotional and social. That understanding has shaped how we leaned on each other, celebrated small wins, and kept our shared purpose at the center. The Challenge provided support and encouragement as we continue to grow into the next chapter of our lives.
Reflections from our Second place winners
Food waste is one of the most urgent environmental issues. It’s a devastating contradiction in a world where millions still face hunger every day.
EcoCh4rge was born from the belief that even if we can't change behavior overnight, we can engineer solutions that turn that waste into something meaningful. With Bronco Challenge support we’re developing a system that transforms food waste—not just scraps, but even bones and paper—into clean electricity, cooking gas, and nutrient-rich fertilizer. It’s scalable, self-sustaining, and designed to meet the needs of everything from off-grid communities to large dining centers. EcoCh4rge is more than a concept—it’s a tangible step toward cleaner energy, smarter consumption, and a more equitable future.
The Challenge is making a real difference, and we’re excited to carry this momentum forward.
Reflections from our Third place winners
Fabric Futures addresses the critical issue of textile waste by making clothing recycling convenient, accessible, and rewarding, starting on campus at WMU. Through campus-based collection points and partnerships with recycling and resale companies, we aim to reduce landfill waste and foster a culture of sustainability among
young people.
We were drawn together by a shared passion for solving real-world problems and a desire to make sustainability relatable and inclusive. Despite challenges, what kept us going was a strong belief in our idea, the diverse strengths of each member and the encouragement of our mentor and partners. This journey taught us how to collaborate across disciplines, turn feedback into opportunity, and stay committed to a mission that is bigger than ourselves.
Presentations from 2022-23 and 2023-24
Recognition Across Various Platforms
In recognition of its significant sustainability initiatives, Western Michigan University has been named a top performer in the 2023 Sustainable Campus Index.
AASHE has praised the Bronco Challenge for Sustainable Impact, which inspires students to come up with creative solutions for implementing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Notable initiatives include "Full Disclosure," which promotes ethical work practices, and "Seed," which improves urban gardening.
As the challenge continues to drive significant student interest and industry support, showcasing WMU’s commitment to advancing sustainability and preparing future leaders.
(Read All the News Stories Below)
Recognition in Board of Trustees Meetings The Bronco Challenge for Sustainable Impact
Western Michigan University recognized for innovation in sustainability
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Ethical labor, sustainable supply chain among topics tackled in second Bronco Challenge
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Western Michigan University receives national recognition from AASHE
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