Sustainability in Eau Claire

Eau Claire is a city that values sustainability, embracing eco-friendly initiatives that make it a great destination for conscious travelers. From locally sourced dining to an expanding network of EV charging stations and scenic outdoor spaces, Eau Claire offers plenty of ways to explore responsibly. Whether you're biking along our extensive trail system, supporting sustainable businesses, or attending events that prioritize waste reduction, you’ll find that sustainability is at the heart of our community. Keep reading to discover how Eau Claire is making a difference—and how you can be a part of it during your visit.

Click here to learn more about the City of Eau Claire's sustainability efforts and plan to meet its 100% renewable energy and carbon neutrality commitments by 2050.

Attractions Transportation Dining Shopping Events UW-Eau Claire

Eco-Friendly Things to Do in Eau Claire

GREEN RIDES: ECO-FRIENDLY TRANSPORTATION IN EAU CLAIRE

Where to Eat Sustainably in Eau Claire

Eau Claire boasts a range of restaurants that highlight locally sourced ingredients, offering fresh and sustainable dining options. Select dining experiences in the area even allow you to eat right at the homestead, with ingredients coming directly from the farm.

Local Ingredients, Done Right

Valley Burger Company – Built around local sourcing, from beef and vegetables to condiments and buns
The Informalist – Scratch-made dishes with locally sourced ingredients and vegetarian-friendly options
The Good Wives – Seasonal menus featuring partnerships with regional farms

Farm-to-Table Experiences

Some meals are worth the short drive. At Together Farms , summer burger nights bring you straight to the source—100% grass-fed beef from their own Buffalo County farm, served outdoors with wide-open views and a laid-back, come-as-you-are vibe. Add a local beer or wine, and you’ve got one of the most authentic dining experiences just outside Eau Claire.

Low-Waste Coffee Culture

Eau Claire’s coffee shops are doing more than serving great drinks—they’re reducing waste with:

Compostable to-go cups
Biodegradable straws
Reusable utensils and mugs

Shop local at the Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market

Want to take sustainability into your own hands? The Eau Claire Farmers Market connects you directly with local farmers offering:

Seasonal produce
Minimal or no packaging
Organic and eco-conscious growing practices

Click here to view all restaurants and dining experiences in Eau Claire.

SHOPPING SUSTAINABLY IN EAU CLAIRE

Wisconsin's Most Sustainable Marathon – In Eau Claire!

The Eau Claire Marathon is all about going green while going the distance! From composting banana peels with the help of Earthbound Environmental Solutions to organizing a shoe drive that empowers women in developing countries, this race goes beyond the finish line when it comes to sustainability. With eco-friendly race materials and creative waste-reduction efforts, the marathon keeps our beautiful city clean and green. Runners, volunteers, and fans alike are encouraged to do their part—because every step we take together brings us closer to a more sustainable Eau Claire!

Click here to view all of the Eau Claire Marathon's sustainability efforts.

An aerial view of the UW-Eau Claire campus in the fall

Photo Credit: Alex Bandli

A Green University in Eau Claire

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (UWEC) demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability through various initiatives. The campus's evolving construction is keeping sustainable and environmentally friendly productions a priority, and the academics department offers students more courses on environmental sciences and sustainability than ever before.

With Public Health and Environmental Studies undergrad opportunities, students can take courses including Sustainability Basics and Beyond, Waste & Society, US Environmental and Sustainability Policy, and more. Geography subjects can also cover topics like Climatology, Environmental Hazards, Weather and Society, and many other courses.

UW-Eau Claire offers LEED GREEN ASSOCIATES training and certification for 50 students and 10 faculty/staff members, providing a strong foundation in green building practices. In partnership with Leading Green, participants get access to webinars, study materials, and practice exams to prepare for the certification.

The university supports environmental stewardship through its Arboretum & Tree Campus USA, focusing on tree care and planting. UWEC also holds certifications like Certified Wildlife Habitat and Monarch Waystation, highlighting its commitment to biodiversity. Additionally, the campus integrates sustainability through energy benchmarks, retrofits for older buildings, and goals for renewable energy, reflecting UWEC’s dedication to long-term ecological health.

Click here to learn more about the sustainability efforts at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.

HOW YOU CAN HELP!

Eau Claire is working hard to stay green, but we need your help! By practicing these small habits, you can help keep Eau Claire green for generations to come.

1. Use walkability and ride-sharing when possible

Eau Claire is a pedestrian-friendly city! Walk, bike, or use ride-sharing services to cut down on emissions.

2. Keep the streets and sidewalks clean

The city takes pride in its spotless streets and parks. Do your part by disposing of trash properly and recycling when possible.

3. Skip the single-use plastic products

Bring a reusable coffee cup, utensils, and straws when dining out in Eau Claire. If you're shopping around, bring your reusable totes to carry your new goodies in!

4. Leave the nature how you found it

Stay on trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and leave no trace when exploring Eau Claire’s outdoor spaces.

Eaux Claires Festival is making its return. 💿