Campus Sustainability News Stories

September 20, 2010 1. UC Merced's Role in Growing Green JobsVideo of the TV coverage: http://www.ucmerced.edu/news_articles/digital_news/100810KFSN-ABC30GreenTechnology.wmv

2. NY Times: UC Proxy Voting Skirts Review Guidelines, Documents ShowThe University of California, which prides itself as a leader on social and environmental issues, voted against hundreds of shareholder resolutions designed to promote human rights, environmental sustainability and efforts to fight discrimination, a review of U.C.s voting record shows. http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/17/us/17bcproxies.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&ref=sanfranciscobayarea

3. Interview with UCSB Chancellor and Executive Vice Chancellor provides comprehensive overview of sustainability efforts and links to campus LRDP"...the LRDP is a land use plan. The Campus Sustainability Plan was developed as a companion document and is consistent or bests the goals set by the Regents for the University of California in its policies on green buildings. We take very seriously our commitment to sustainability, and we are proud that we have been a leader in this area. For example, at the 2010 California Higher Education Sustainability Conference this past June, our campus was honored with three Best Practice awards, for Student Sustainability Program, Water Efficiency and Site Water Quality, and Sustainable Food Service...We continue to reduce potable water use on our campus. Over 90% of our campus is currently irrigated with reclaimed water, and we continue to research other ways to utilize this abundant resource. We are in discussion with the Goleta Water District regarding other possible uses including the use of reclaimed water flush water closets. We are making great strides in replacing existing plumbing fixtures with those that use little or no water. For example, our Bren School building, which has received two LEED Platinum certifications, uses waterless urinals; it is estimated that each waterless urinal saves approximately 45,000 gallons of water per year. We also are studying the possible collection and uses of condensation water from campus cooling systems."http://www.independent.com/news/2010/sep/02/ucsb-administration-explains-expansion/

4. UCLA introduces the Green Guide to LivingWith the start of the fall quarter of 2010, UCLA introduces the Green Guide to Living, a booklet of tips and information on the environmental impacts of personal behavior and consumption. All students moving into on-campus housing will find the Green Guide in their rooms, shaping students first impressions of life at UCLA with sustainability. The Green Guide will have a large outreach, additionally available for any interested students, used by residential Team Green coordinators, offered at resource fairs and more.Created by students from the Education for Sustainable Living Program in collaboration with UCLA Housing & Hospitality Services and the Office of Residential Life.The Green Guide can be viewed and downloaded at: www.housing.ucla.edu/greenguide

5. SCUP Pacific presents "Uncovering Patterns in the Sustainability Maze: An In-Depth Discussion"In these changing times campuses involved with designing and constructing capital projects -

developing green campus plans - are seeking to understand the best practices to support Environmental Stewardship. Planners and policy analysts looking for new approaches to address sustainability are questioning whether the LEED system, a self-certification system, or yet another process is the most appropriate method. Many campuses that have signed-on to the Presidents Climate Commitment or, have been asked to commit to a zero-carbon footprint, are now wondering how they will achieve it. Others impressed with the public relations and branding appeal of LEED question whether this metric system leads to optimal design criteria.

Unsure that LEED is the most appropriate way to continue to proceed, the folks at the University of New Mexico have begun to question sustainability metrics, to ask what the most appropriate system might be for campuses in the west and southwest, and wonder whether there is a better way to move forward.

Join your colleagues for this SCUP Pacific all-day symposium in Albuquerque with input from the local New Mexico region. We will discuss various metric systems for environmental sustainability in an effort to enlighten planners and policy analysts on stewardship choices. Various sustainability metric systems and design choices will be juxtaposed to compare and contrast advantages and disadvantages in order that planners might evaluate these options to determine which may be most appropriate for their university or system of higher education.For more information: http://www.scup.org/page/regions/pa/2010/symposium

September 9, 20101. UC Berkeley issues 2010 Campus Sustainability ReportThe Office of Sustainability has released the 2010 Campus Sustainability Report. The Report provides a snapshot of how successfully the campus has implemented projects to achieve our goals, initiated new best practices, and expanded the culture of sustainability. New features of the Report include metrics for sustainable food and total research expenditures, At A Glance lists of ongoing work in each section, and a new Across Campus section looking at administrative and crosscutting sustainability work. Continuing to provide transparency and accountability, the 2010 Campus Sustainability Report is the fourth in a series of documents that report and assess campus sustainability at UC Berkeley.http://sustainability.berkeley.edu/os/pages/newsletter/docs/BrightGreenNewsV16_0810.pdf

2. Macquarie U Wins Green Globe AwardMacquarie University (Australia) recently won a Green Globe Award from the New South Wales government, which celebrates sustainable uses of natural resources and leadership in tackling climate change. The university's blueprint for sustainability received a Public Sector Sustainability Award in the category of people, plant and participation. In addition to operating as a fair trade campus, the university's sustainability initiatives include a recycling program that uses 100 percent recycled paper and diverts 70 percent of its waste from landfills; green cleaning, IT and e-waste policies; and a sustainability website, committee and campus tours. See also: 2010 Green Globe Award Winners

3. CPUC launches Zero Net Energy Action Plan for CaliforniaThe California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) joined California business leaders to launch a 2010-2012 Zero Net Energy Action Plan designed to help California commercial building owners take advantage of the latest technologies and financial incentives to help reduce building energy use to `net-zero' through greater efficiency and on-site clean energy production.

http://docs.cpuc.ca.gov/PUBLISHED/NEWS_RELEASE/122911.htm

4. UCSC Alumna at SF Environment Department produces green purchasing guideI received this message from one of the founders of the UCSC Student Earth Summit, who now works on the toxics program in the SF Environment Department:

If you need to shop, the new SF Approved List can help you be a lazy environmentalist. 

See what NY Times & Fast Company say about this site I helped make. It can take time to make sure a product is "green."  To save you time & money, The SF Approved List  filters out "green" products like a vegetarian that turns roadkill into jewelry.

The List has 1,000 products to green your home, small business or large organization, like hand sanitizers & wipes that kill 99.99% of germs but have no triclosan.  You'll want to avoid antibacterial products which often has triclosan which:

Creates cancer-causing chloroform when mixed with chlorine in tap water. Is no better than soap and water ( according to FDA panel).

The List can help prevent pollution in you & me.  Like Anderson Cooper, many of us have toxic chemicals in our blood like phthalates which are associated with changes in genital development & caused cancer in animal studies.  Not cool.  So that's why it's safer to avoid products with fragrance or made of soft plastic.

If you need a reason to buy nothing, watch this PBS documentary to be inspired to go to these recyclers that do not dump toxic electronics on people in Africa, China, India.

September 3, 20101. Bay Area PBS station article features Stanford's ambitious energy and climate planIn 1888, when famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted drafted his master plan for Stanford University in Palo Alto, he drew the academic buildings along an east-west axis to efficiently make use of heat and light from the sun. Now, more than 100 years later, a new generation of eco-centric builders and designers are embarking on a $250 million project to raise, retrofit and re-power buildings across the 8,000-acre campus, in the hopes of slashing Stanfords greenhouse gas emissions to 20 percent below 1990 levels in just 10 years. The plan tackles energy demand in existing and new buildings, while also laying the groundwork for a new energy supply loop that powers, heats and cools the 125 biggest buildings on the main campus. Its one of the most far-reaching efforts in the nation for a major research university to make a total transformation of a complete campus energy system, said Joe Stagner, a civil engineer who directs Stanfords Department of Sustainability and Energy Management. http://www.kqed.org/quest/blog/2010/08/24/go-big-green-stanford-lightens-its-carbon-load/

2. AASHE Releases 'A Call to Action' for Higher Ed SustainabilityAASHE has released Sustainability Curriculum in Higher Education: A Call to Action, a culmination of the ideas presented during AASHEs Summit on Sustainability in the Curriculum, held February 25-27, 2010 in San Diego, Calif. The meeting brought together faculty from public and private

four-year colleges and universities, two-year community colleges, and representatives from higher education organizations to address how higher education institutions can further infuse sustainability topics into college and university curricula. The 13-page report is available free from the AASHE web

3. Wake Forest U Launches Sustainability CenterWake Forest University (NC) has launched the Center for Energy, Environment and Sustainability. The new interdisciplinary center will promote action and collaboration across the fields of renewable energy, biodiversity and ecosystem conservation, environmental policy, human behavior, social influence, enterprise and environmental markets. The center will also provide a focal point for engaging the public on issues of sustainability.

4. Labor journal on union members leading campus greeningKaza, who serves on the executive council of UVM United Academics/AFT/AAUP, suggests that unions are natural collaborators in the green movement: Labor issues are often strongly linked to environmental issues, and todays environmentalists work both fronts simultaneously. Partnerships are the way to work. Unions, as the most articulate voice for labor on campus, can model collaborative representation and planning....From the point of view of faculty and staff unions, says Field, the key is a healthier environment. That means building materials that are not toxic; offices with proper ventilation; lighting systems that use less energy; ergonomic, recyclable furniture. It all ties into the comfort and health of people working and studying in these buildings. From green jobs and buildings to healthier work environments to sustainability in practice and in the curriculum, AFT members are contributing to a movement that has exploded in the past few years. Their experiences show that the work of a few activists on a campus, compounded, can lead to a tipping point where the momentum for change is unstoppable. http://www.greenlaborjournal.org/affiliates/greening-the-campus

5. Arizona State U Expands Recycling ProgramArizona State Universitys Waste Management has expanded its recycling program to help reach its goal of zero solid waste. The university is now equipped to handle pizza boxes, glass, soft plastic bags, liquid-free paper cups, vinyl banners, corrugated plastic signs, metal odds and ends and non aerosol cans. Waste Management is working to keep 90 percent of the items collected out of the landfill. See also: List of Campus Recycling Procedures (AASHE Members Only)

August 26, 2010

1. USA Today: Colleges Using Sustainability to Attract StudentsUsing sustainability to attract student enrollment is a growing trend among higher education institutions, says a recent article in USA Today. Twenty-seven percent of colleges and universities incorporated a sustainability message during admissions and student orientation processes in 2009. Today, the number has increased to 69 percent.

2. Portland State U Featured in NY Times as Planned EcoDistrictThe Portland State University (OR) campus will be the site of a pilot EcoDistrict, according to a recent article in The New York Times. To steer away from the reliance on large, centralized systems to generate electricity, dispose of waste, transport people and process stormwater,

Portland residents will experiment with the management of such systems on a smaller, distributed scale in five pilot neighborhoods. The Oregon Sustainability Center, slated for construction at the edge of the universitys campus, will generate all of its electricity, consume only the rainfall that falls upon it, and process all of its wastewater.

3. U. Illinois Climate Action Plan: Using Strategic Intent to Envision, Plan for 2050The strategic intent framework encourages contributors to put dreams on paper and begin implementing change instead of using the unknown as an excuse for inaction. To help the campus community envision goals of becoming healthier, cleaner, safer and more prosperous, one iCAP contributor, Assistant Professor Brian Deal led in authoring a creative letter from the perspective of a future chancellor in the year 2050. The letter helped iCAP collaborators put aside current obstaclesbudget, technology, resourcesand focus on the futures opportunities, even without knowing every step along the way. The letter predicted the Universitys position as a global leader in education and research based on brave decisions made in 2010. Indeed, the iCAP goals exemplify ambition: elimination of coal combustion by 2017, a reduction in building energy use of 40 percent by 2025, and carbon neutrality by 2050. The plan limits facility growth, incorporates aggressive building energy conservation plans, and calls for the de-carbonization of energy generation systems along with changes to transportation, food and agricultural systems and large-scale renewable energy sources. Illinois is proud to be the first Big Ten University to have met the commitment, especially to have met it with a strong plan, but it wasnt easy to engage and satisfy constituencies, including skeptical administrators.http://secondnaturebos.wordpress.com/2010/07/06/using-strategic-intent-to-envision-plan-for-2050/

4. Dissertation work by Deputy Assistant Secretary of U.S. Dept. of Education examines leadership role in implementing sustainability"In recent years, top-level officials at these institutions have called for institution-wide commitments to a more "sustainable" relationship with our natural environment. Nevertheless, leadership faces complex political, structural and personal barriers to significant change in the pursuit of sustainability. A renewed call to action in the ACUPCC Steering Committee's 2009 white paper "Leading Profound Change" underscores leadership's vital role in achieving climate neutrality in American higher education. Simultaneous to the Steering Committee's report, I found myself developing a closely related thesis for my doctoral dissertation on sustainability in higher education. The research question sought to answer 'what common characteristics and actions were taken by successful university and college leaders in pursuit of sustainability?' Five common themes cut across the study."http://secondnaturebos.wordpress.com/2010/07/06/the-leadership-factor-implementing-sustainability-in-higher-education/

5. UC Irvine Vice Chancellor assesses institutional readiness for implementing climate solutions"During the past three years I have served in the roles of both Chief Business Officer (CBO) and ACUPCC Implementation Liaison at the University of California, Irvine. In this dual role I have recognized certain factors critical for attaining success in implementing climate action plans. In this first of four articles to be published over the next twelve months, I will describe two basic tools that can determine whether your organization and key stakeholders are adequately prepared to move forward in implementing solutions to the complex problem of attaining institutional climate-neutrality. The following 10 factors are strong predictors of an

organizations success in addressing any large, complex problem including climate change solutions."http://secondnaturebos.wordpress.com/2010/07/06/institutional-readiness-to-implement-climate-solutions/

6. Butte College Has Grid Positive Plans for May 2011With the upcoming addition of 15,000 solar photovoltaic panels, Butte College (CA) is on track to becoming grid positive, producing more clean energy from sustainable on-site solar power than it uses. The college's Board of Trustees recently approved the installation, which will add to its existing 10,000 solar panels for a system total of 4.5 solar megawatts. The $17 million project, funded in part by federal Clean Renewable Energy Bonds, is slated for a May 2011 completion. See also: List of Campus Solar Installations

7. Butte College, Chico State U Students to Help Retrofit HouseholdsButte College (CA) and California State University, Chico have received a grant of almost $400,000 from Pacific Gas and Electric's Innovators Pilot Program to retrofit at least 100 Chico, Calif. households with energy-saving measures. The funding will be used to employ students to conduct energy audits and assist with the installation of energy conservation measures like caulking and sealing cracks, doors and windows, and placing real-time energy monitors on homeowner meters to track energy consumption.

8. Johns Hopkins University Students Help to Green Local NonprofitsStudents at Johns Hopkins University (MA) have recently completed sustainability assessments at 20 Baltimore nonprofits as part of the university's Climate Showcase Project. Through the project, students learn ways to reduce the organizations' energy use, greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts. The inaugural co-hort of six students looked at details like weatherproofing, lighting fixtures, toilet and sink water flow, recycling efforts and in-house dining options. The students made recommendations including the use of energy-efficient light bulbs, insulation, low-flow toilets, recycling programs and biking to work.

August 25, 20101. Eight UC campuses make Sierra Club's green rankingsEight University of California campuses made Sierra magazine's list of 100 Cool Schools, which ranks environmentally friendly polices at universities across the country. Leading the way for UC was Irvine, which placed sixth on the list with a score of 84.4 out a possible 100. Santa Cruz was 11th with score 82, San Diego was 15th with 81.6, Davis was tied for 16th with 81.2, UCLA was 25th with 77.6, Berkeley 32nd with 76.3, Merced 39th with 73.3 and Santa Barbara 44th with 72.2. The Cool Schools survey results will be published in the September/October issue of Sierra, a publication of the Sierra Club.UC press release: http://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/news/article/23885Chronicle of Higher Ed: http://chronicle.com/blogPost/Sierra-Magazine-Shuffles-the/26247/NPR Talk of the Nation: http://www.sciencefriday.com/program/archives/201008205Environmental Leader Daily: http://www.environmentalleader.com/2010/08/16/sierra-names-green-mountain-college-as-top-school-in-green-college-ranking/

2. U California San Diego Greens Print OperationsThe University of California, San Diego has discontinued the use of non-recycled paper in

centrally-operated, multifunctional campus copier machines as part of a larger effort to make the universitys print operations greener. See also: Watch UC San Diego Printing Services Video

3. New UCSC course aims to transform the way students learn while generating local change"Impact Designs: Engineering and Sustainability Through Student Service, is a new, year-long course designed to advance sustainability education with real-world impact while enabling students to develop as change agents. This is your chance to implement service learning projects that bring about societal and environmental change on campus and in the Monterey Bay community."http://sustainability.ucsc.edu/sites/sustainability.ucsc.edu/files/Outreach%20Flyer%20Lightbulb%20Tree%208.12.10%20C8%20Added.pdf

4. UC Merced student sees green future for communityChiang, 23, interned at UC Merced's Green Campus from 2008 to 2010. She's now an intern for the university and just finished auditing the amount of energy the school uses and the gases every facility emits. The tests are meant to determine if the school is meeting its promise to reduce emissions. She's also doing the same assessment for the city of Merced. http://www.mercedsunstar.com/2010/08/16/1531237/uc-merced-student-sees-green-future.html

5. USF dumps plastic water bottlesThe big victory for the USF green team came when the campus only meal provider, Bon Appetit, agreed to stop selling water bottled in plastic, according to the schools website. Moving from single-use bottled water to reusable bottles is one of many projects the green team has taken on, according Wachtel. The student group helped persuade Bon Appetit to only use fair-trade coffee, and it was instrumental in starting recycling programs and a campus garden. To prepare for the lack of bottled water for purchase, the school purchased kits that would convert existing fountains and add a second spout to allow for easy filling, USF spokeswoman Ann-Marie Devine said.http://www.sfexaminer.com/local/USF-dumps-plastic-water-bottles-99739169.html#ixzz0wz1a9nsJ

6. NCAA Environmental Sustainability Practices SurveyEighty percent of key decision makers in NCAA athletic departments have a positive perspective toward developing environmental initiatives, according to a survey conducted by Falmouth, Massachusetts-based ProGreenSports. The second annual survey of green practices within NCAA departments revealed that almost 40 percent of the departments have formed internal "green teams," almost twice the number in 2009. More than 35 percent have developed or are actively considering the development of short term and long term sustainability goals. Decision makers in more than 70 NCAA athletic departments participated in the May 2010 survey.See also: 2010 NCAA Athletic Department Survey Results See also: 2009 NCAA Athletic Department Survey Results

7. U Texas Athletics Creates Renewable Energy ServiceThe University of Texas Men's & Women's Athletics program has formed a new partnership with Dallas-based Branded Retail Energy Co. to offer a 100 percent renewable energy service to alumni and those in deregulated regions of Texas. Texas Longhorns Energy will be powered by

electricity provider Champion Energy Services, with each new customer account generating funds for sustainability efforts within the university's Athletics department. The service will launch in mid-August with rates comparable to current renewable energy market ratesAugust 18, 2010

1. U. Chicago Alumni Magazine: campus is playing catch-up on sustainability"With some catching up to do, the University brings Chicago-style rigor to an environmental movement taking root in the groves of academe...They hoped Chicago would make ecological concerns more central to its scholarly mission and daily campus life. Some have wanted the University to assert greater leadership in conserving energy and promoting renewable sources. And for a long time they were disappointed. They watched as more and more universities and colleges adopted environmental principles but not theirs. Then, in November 2008, Chicago established an Office of Sustainability. The office promotes the University’s environmental efforts, from improving energy efficiency in campus buildings to encouraging greater awareness of environmental issues among students, faculty, and staff. The office has started a bike-share program, undertaken a campus-wide greenhouse-gas survey, and sponsored many other events and activities. One of its biggest projects has been to draw up a strategic plan for the University's sustainability efforts. Is the U of C going green? Perhaps, although it trails many of its peers and seems unlikely to catch up soon."http://magazine.uchicago.edu/1008/features/green-evolution.shtml?msource=MAG10

2. Yale U Develops Green Incentive ProgramYale University (CT) has developed a set of Green Certification programs for campus workplaces, labs and events. The program is designed to educate faculty and staff about the sustainable practices they can implement to reduce the university’s impact on the environment. A blend of information and incentives, the program offers four levels of certification. Workplaces, for example, can attain the various levels of certification by accumulating points that are awarded through the accomplishment of ongoing, monthly activities. See also: Sustainability Awareness Surveys (AASHE Members Only)

3. U Alberta Hires New Academic Coord for Office of SustainabilityDr. Susan Barker has been named as the new academic coordinator for the University of Alberta's (AB) Office of Sustainability. The academic branch encourages sustainable concepts in classes, curriculum and research. Barker, whose research interests include ecological and environmental education, is currently the university's chair of Secondary Education and serves on the Canadian National Expert Council for Education for Sustainable Development.

4. Emory U Debuts Online Sustainability MapEmory University (GA) is kicking off its Walk N' Roll campaign with the launch of an online sustainability map. Funded by an $18,000 Urban Land Institute grant with matching funds from the university, the campaign aims to reduce the university's carbon footprint by creating a pedestrian campus core to include walking, wheeling and biking. Users of the online map can find bike share locations, walking tours and trails, or embark on a scavenger hunt for Emory's LEED-certified buildings. The map also identifies educational campus gardens, a compact fluorescent light bulb recycling center and the campus farmers' market. See also: Emory Sustainability Map

5. Duke U Implements Indoor Temperature Policy

Duke University (NC) has announced a policy to regulate indoor temperatures. Participating campus buildings at Duke will now be set to 76 degrees in the summer and 68 degrees in the winter. The university expects to save as much as $600,000 in heating and cooling costs.

6. Harvard U Building Earns LEED Commercial Interiors PlatinumHarvard University (MA) has received LEED for Commercial Interiors Platinum certification for the renovation of McCulloch Hall. Sustainability highlights of the 35,127-square-foot residence hall include occupancy sensors that set back temperatures when the room is unoccupied, daylight sensors, LED task lighting, efficient overhead lighting, and fixtures to reduce potable water consumption by more than 30 percent. See also: List of Green Residence Halls (AASHE Members Only)

August 13, 2010 1. Sustainability Coordinator, U California RiversideThe University of California, Riverside is looking for a campus sustainability coordinator to lead and manage campus sustainability efforts and to foster a culture of sustainability among students, faculty and staff. The position will identify and prioritize areas for institutional sustainability efforts and engage other campus leaders to foster sustainability across campus units. The coordinator will also work to establish and maintain an effective communication strategy, developing and coordinating education and outreach programs in support of campus sustainability, energy management and resource conservation programs. Applicants should have a bachelors degree in a relevant field and a minimum of five years of management experience in a higher education and/or sustainability field.

2. TGIF Grants Mgr/Sustainability Coord, U California Santa BarbaraThe University of California, Santa Barbara invites applicants for a TGIF (The Green Initiative Fund) grants manager and campus sustainability coordinator. The position will serve as the TGIF budget, organizational and staff person, and participate in policy, marketing and grant writing development. Duties include the development and management of proposal submission, review and award processes; maintenance of website and print materials; and coordination of green student intern and volunteer program. This position will also work to optimize philanthropic support in coordination with the Development Office staff and provide support for campus sustainability planning.https://jobs.ucsb.edu/applicants/jsp/shared/frameset/Frameset.jsp?time=1281743942672

3. U California Riverside Students Vote for Green TaxStudents at the University of California, Riverside have passed a green fee referendum. After campaigning in favor of the green tax, students will now pay $2.50 per quarter for four years. Part of the proceeds will go toward the installation of solar panels to boost renewable energy on campus. The university plans to install solar panels atop the student union structure in the next few years. See also: Student Sustainability Fees

4. U California Santa Barbara Buildings Earn LEED CertificationsTwo University of California, Santa Barbara buildings have received LEED certification. An addition to the Engineering II building received LEED Gold certification in the new construction category and the Life Sciences Building received LEED Silver certification in the existing buildings category. The Life Sciences Building achievements include water savings of 29 percent, waste

minimization strategies and passive solar design. The Engineering II building has achieved water savings of 40 percent and recycled 90 percent of construction waste, diverting 150 tons of materials from landfills. See also: List of Green Campus Science Buildings (AASHE Members Only)

5. UCSD Saves $900,000 with Server Replacements and an Energy DashboardThe University of California, San Diego (UC San Diego) has installed an energy dashboard to help the school improve the efficiency of their operations, reduce energy use, and combat climate change, according to a press release. The dashboard provides updated energy information for the universitys facilities and equipment, helping the them to save $900,000 a year, reducing energy consumption by 19 million kilowatt hours, and reducing 9,600 metric tons of greenhouse gases. Working with a San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) incentive program, the university used information provided by the energy dashboard to identify inefficiencies in their computer servers. The dashboard provides campus microgrid managers with data on energy use by buildings, floors within buildings and in some cases rooms on a floor. As a result, UC San Diego replaced 514 older computer servers with 270 energy-efficient models. The project reduced energy consumption by 7.9 million kilowatt-hours, saving the university $680,000 annually, and prevents 2,600 metric tons of greenhouse gases from being released into the atmosphere each year.http://www.environmentalleader.com/2010/06/30/ucsd-saves-900000-with-energy-dashboard/

6. California State U Long Beach Students Ramp Up Green Program Interns with California State University Long Beachs student-led Green Campus Program are working to ensure that campus classrooms are as energy efficient as possible. One project features the use of data loggers that record the activity of occupancy sensors through on/off changes of lights. The students will watch for irregular patterns in lighting usage that indicate when automatic light sensors are not working properly and inform the university's Facilities Management Department. The Green Campus Program was implemented last spring at the university, with plans to promote energy efficiency to students, make operational change recommendations and encourage the implementation of energy efficiency lessons into university curriculum. A main goal of the program, which is currently in place on 19 California campuses, is to build pathways for students to green careers through trainings, internships, volunteer opportunities and project-based learning.

June 25, 20101. Video (linked below) and Speech Transcript (attached) from President Yudof at Global Green USA Awardshttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m1l8ancmpg0

2. UCM Solar VideoA promotional piece by SunPower on the UC Merced 1MW solar array highlights UCM's vision sustainable energy and its Triple Zero Commitment. http://us.sunpowercorp.com/video/customer-testimonial/uc-davis.php?elq_mid=53&elq_cid=161572

3. UC's Energy Efficiency Keeps the Lights On in Dark TimesIn the midst of severe cuts at most of Californias public universities, there may be one bright spot. The University of California has embarked on an energy efficiency project that has started

to reap financial benefits. Thats no small feat, at a time when the UC system has had to hike student fees, furlough faculty, and reduce course offerings to close a $1 billion budget hole. California State University and community colleges have undertaken similar steps to boost energy efficiency on their campuses. Combined, the University of California and California State University systems account for one percent of the states energy consumption. The amount of energy UC uses each year is enough to power 270,000 households. At the same time the state is pumping less money into education, the school system has seen its utility bills and health costs for which the state doesnt provide funds skyrocket. The money for health benefits and energy bills comes out of the same pool of money that funds education and research. With rising energy costs and shrinking state funds, the potential for energy efficiency to reap financial gains is grabbing the attention of UCs leadership.http://newamericamedia.org/2010/06/ucs-energy-efficiency-keeps-the-lights-on-in-dark-times.php

4. UCSD and SANYO Pioneer Next Generation of Energy ManagementThe SANYO Electric Group, including SANYO North America Corporation headquartered in San Diego, Calif., (SANYO) and the University of California, San Diego have announced a research collaboration agreement designed to lead to the next generation of solar energy systems and energy management. Under the agreement, SANYO and UC San Diego will collaborate on multi-year, multi-disciplinary projects in the areas of renewable energy and energy storage research, development and education. SANYO will contribute $3 million over three years to fund the collaborative research projects. The agreement is the first of its kind that SANYO has made with a university in the United States in the area of energy...As one of the greenest universities in the United States, UC San Diego has become a living laboratory for sustainability and renewable energy, said UC San Diego Chancellor Marye Anne Fox. This partnership with SANYO will further leverage the universitys energy research expertise which, in turn, will benefit industry, society and the environment. http://www.jacobsschool.ucsd.edu/news/news_releases/release.sfe?id=954

5. Article on sustainable food in hospitals mentions UC sustainable food policy goalsSanta Rosa Memorial Hospital, a 278-bed hospital that serves as a regional trauma center, launched a Balanced Menus program in May 2009, intent on injecting local, sustainably produced meat, dairy and produce into a institutional food service system...On another major institutional food front, 4,000 students at 350 universities have joined the Real Food Challenge, advocating a $1 billion shift, or 20 percent, of campus food service purchases toward sustainable foods. The University of California last year adopted a goal of procuring 20 percent sustainable foods by 2020.http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20100619/LIFESTYLE05/100619443?p=all&tc=pgall

6. U California Los Angeles Releases Bike-U-mentaryThe University of California, Los Angeles Sustainable Resource Center has released UCLA Bike-U-mentary, a short documentary that profiles real cyclists on their commute to UCLA. The film was released to coincide with Bike-to-Campus-Week activities.

7. U California Davis to Open Honey Bee HavenThe University of California, Davis has announced plans to unveil the Haagen-Dazs Honey Bee Haven in September, 2010. The half-acre garden, planted last fall, is designed as a year-round food source for bees and other pollinators. Another aim of the garden is to create public

awareness about the plight of honey bees and their importance. See also: Harry H. Laidlaw Jr. Honey Bee Research FacilityJune 17, 20101. UCSB, UCSC among "Top 10 Eco-Friendly Colleges and Universities" according to U.S. NewsView this short, but nationally significant, profile at: UCSB: http://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/slideshows/10-eco-friendly-college-campuses/6UCSC: http://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/slideshows/10-eco-friendly-college-campuses/9

2. UCSD Wins CHP 2010 Award from EPAThe U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on June 15 gave UC San Diego a 2010 Energy Star CHP Award for its high efficiency, low-emission combined heat and power (CHP) plant that provides 85 percent of the campus annual electricity needs...With a net operating efficiency of 66 percent, UC San Diegos CHP plant requires about 26 percent less fuel than a system composed of typical onsite thermal generation and purchased electricity, saving the university $670,000 per month in energy costs. The CHP system also effectively reduces carbon dioxide emissions by an estimated 82,500 tons per year, which is equivalent to the annual emissions from more than 13,700 passenger vehicles. The EPA award described the impressively low emission levels of nitrogen oxide pollutants as one of the lowest levels for cogeneration in the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District.http://ucsdnews.ucsd.edu/newsrel/general/06-15EnergyStar.asphttp://www.epa.gov/chp/public-recognition/current_winners.html

3. UC Berkeley Co-Op to Undergo Green MakeoverResidents of Kingman Hall will be coming home to cleaner, greener digs in the fall after the co-op undergoes an eco-friendly makeover this summer. The Berkeley Student Cooperative will soon begin sprucing up Kingman with the aim of reducing the building's greenhouse gas emissions by 40 percent. The renovations will put the co-op in compliance with Measure G, a 2006 Berkeley initiative that requires the city to create a plan to reduce total greenhouse gas emissions by 80 percent below 2000 emission levels by 2050. The retrofits - part of the cooperative's larger effort to make all 20 of their buildings more energy efficient by the end of the decade.http://www.dailycal.org/article/109585/co-op_to_undergo_green_makeover

4. UC Berkeley data center uses wireless monitoring to boost efficiencyLike many organizations, the University of California, Berkeley, has been eyeing the latest data center technologies to increase overall energy efficiencies. The university's most recent challenge was to expand server capacity without overloading its existing cooling system or having to add expensive air conditioning capacity. The university late last year planned to install a high-performance computing cluster for scientific research applications that would add 10 server racks to Berkeley's 10,000 square foot data center...Arch Rock's Energy Optimizer wireless sensor-based system measures temperature, airflow, pressure and other metrics in data centers at every spot where sensors are mounted...As a result of having real-time, 24x7, visibility into power and thermal conditions, "we're doing 20% more with our existing assets," says Aguirre, who says his plan is to now install the system throughout Berkeley's whole production data center "probably by the end of the calendar year." http://www.networkworld.com/cgi-bin/mailto/x.cgi?pagetosend=/newsletters/wireless/2010/060710wireless2.html&pagename=/newsletters/wireless/2010/060710wireless2.html&pageurl=http://www.networkworld.com/newsletters/wireless/

2010/060710wireless2.html&site=printpage

5. UCLA IoE student profiles reveal draw of Education for Sustainable Living program

"The student-taught Education for Sustainable Living course solidified my decision to choose the minor as I got to learn more about sustainability. The level of student empowerment and excitement was a major draw."http://www.environment.ucla.edu/news/article.asp?parentid=6888

"Im in the major and the Environmental Systems and Society Minor and really enjoy the combination. I choose both because of ART-Action Research Teams, a component of the student-organized Education for Sustainable Living Program, run through the IoE that connects students to the world of sustainability. I really enjoy doing something, as opposed to just sitting in a classroom. I focus more energy on ART than anything else."http://www.environment.ucla.edu/news/article.asp?parentid=6883

6. Sac Bee: UCD, Chico St., UOP listed among greenest collegesA focus on sustainability is evident on every corner of the UC Davis campus. There's the farm, where students grow organic crops for other students and employees to buy by the bushel. There's the stadium that produces no waste because every cup, straw and candy wrapper is recycled. Solar panels power some student housing, and shuttle buses run on natural gas. Engineering students are testing plug-in hybrid cars that get 100 miles per gallon. Design students are developing lamps that use minimal electricity and need their lights changed every 15 years. The dining hall features fresh produce, vegetarian entrees and vegan desserts. A sign next to a bowl of kiwis says they were grown on the Dalai Farms in Gridley, 70 miles from campus. The healthy cafeteria was a big attraction to Marie Alftin when she was deciding which college to attend. When she visited other schools, Alftin said, tour leaders described how many times a day students could swipe their card for access to the dining hall. When she visited UC Davis, tour leaders described the organic local fruit and the vegetarian options. "That was one of the main things that stuck out to me," Alftin said.http://www.sacbee.com/2010/05/08/2736344/ucd-chico-uop-listed-as-greenest.html#ixzz0r998jS7i

June 11, 2010

1. UCR Green Fund passes with 79% of the student voteThe initiative which will install solar panels on the HUB and Lot 30, along with creating new green internships and competitive grants.Highlander News Article on the results: http://www.highlandernews.org/news/voters-pass-gcap-rec-center-referenda-1.1436953GCAP's Website: http://votegcapucr.com/Official Referendum Document: http://www.elections.ucr.edu/SiteCollectionDocuments/GCAP%20Referendum%20Final.pdf

2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology Launches Efficiency ForwardMassachusetts Institute of Technology and Boston-based utility NSTAR have announced a new program, MIT Efficiency Forward, which aims to cut MITs electricity use by 15 percent over the

next three years. The program is expected to save MIT $50 million in energy costs over the next decade. The energy reduction will result from behavior change programs and changes in lighting, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.

3. U Massachusetts Amherst Food Service Increases Local PurchasesUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst Dining Services has increased the amount of local foods offered in campus dining halls. 25 percent of its food items were purchased from local farms in 2009, up from eight percent in 2002. The institution has also begun offering twice as much fruit and has cut meat portions by 3 ounces at lunch and 4 ounces at dinner. In addition, UMass has noticed a 20 percent food waste decrease. The University hopes to increase local food purchases by 27 percent in 2010. See also: Boston Globe Article

4. Whitepaper on the Importance of Sustainability to CollegesChapter 8 of Aramark Higher Education's Presidential Perspectives Series comprises a whitepaper entitled, Sustainability, A Strategic Imperative for Colleges and Universities. The release, written by President Dr. Thomas J. Haas of Grand Valley State University (MI), discusses the application of sustainability principles on campus as it relates to education for sustainability, student involvement, and community engagement.

5. Whitepaper on Green Paper Campus InitiativesThe Environmental Paper Network has released Paper Steps on Campus: Nine Steps to Protecting the Climate and Reducing Waste. The whitepaper, which was produced in partnership with the National Wildlife Federation, Recycling Organizations of America, and the Repaper Project, includes nine steps to help green campus paper use and purchasing, campus case studies, tips on how to increase involvement, and resources where you can find more information about paper purchasing policies.

6. Queen's U to Ban Sale of Bottled Water on Campus by 2015Queen's University (ON) Principal Daniel Woolf has committed to reducing and eventually ending the sale of bottled water on the Queens campus. A plan will be established in early fall 2010 for limiting and eventually ending the sale of bottled water within five years, subject to contractual obligations with the Universitys beverage providers. As the Universitys contracts with concession holders, food service providers and soft drink companies come up for renewal over the next few years, re-negotiations will include removing bottled water as an option for sale. Enhancements to existing access to municipal drinking water on campus are being considered as part of the plan. See also: List of Campuses with Bottled Water Bans (AASHE Members Only)

June 8, 2010

1. UC Sustainability Program to receive Millenium Environmental AwardGlobal Green USA is honoring the University of California for the environmental commitment the university has demonstrated through its academic, research and sustainability practices...UC President Mark Yudof said winning the award is a "tremendous honor" that recognizes students, faculty and researchers who are transforming the University of California into a national leader for sustainable development. "We view the university as a living laboratory," Yudof said. "Not

only are we generating the research into sustainable ways of living, we are finding culture-shaping ways to apply it." Yudof is accepting the award on behalf of UC at Global Green's annual Millennium Awards ceremony on Saturday (June 12) in Santa Monica at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel. http://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/news/article/23525

2. UCSF Medical Center Receives Recognition for Environmentally Sustainable PracticesUCSF Medical Center and UCSF Childrens Hospital received a Partner for Change Award from Practice Greenhealth for integrating environmental responsibility into its operations. Practice Greenhealth is the nations leading membership and networking organization for institutions in the health care community committed to sustainable, eco-friendly practices...The Environmental Excellence Awards recognize success stories, said Anna Gilmore Hall, executive director of Practice Greenhealth. UCSF Medical Center is a successful model of how health facilities can develop and implement pollution prevention programs to greatly improve the health of their patients, staff and community. http://today.ucsf.edu/stories/ucsf-medical-center-receives-recognition-for-sustainable-practices/

3. UCLA Sustainability Video Contest Announces WinnersThe award winners will receive ASUCLA gift cards totaling $3,000! And the awards go to ...Jessica Rojas and Faisal Attrache for "We Need Your Help" (Audience Award) Junior Bustamante for "Love the Earth" (First Judge's Award)Tie: Ikko Suzuki, Kevin Castro, Susanna Ericsson, Andrei Christian Grigorian, for "The Custodian" and Nina Gupta, Elizabeth Hirsch, Anand Mehta, Raymond Martinez for "Sustainable Transportation" (Second Judge's Award)

You can view the videos on the sustainability website at: http://ucla.in/9iU8EP

4. U California Los Angeles Students Complete Green ProjectsStudents at the University of California, Los Angeles have completed Action Research Projects to help make the University a more environmentally sustainable campus. Over the course of two quarters, 70 students were divided into 11 groups that each took on a different project. Topics included bicycles and their benefits, drought landscaping, sustainable food systems, water conservation, green student orientation, composting in residence halls, promoting drinking fountains over plastic water bottles, paperless course evaluations, single stream recycling, and green graduate housing.

5. City of SF hits goal for reducing GHG emissionsSan Francisco has significantly reduced its carbon footprint during the last two years, meeting the standards set by the Kyoto Protocol. Mayor Gavin Newsom this week announced that The City is 7 percent below the 1990 emissions levels. That includes analysis of data through 2008, the latest information on local emissions available...Although The City has met an international target, Newsom noted that San Franciscos goal goes far beyond the Kyoto accord. The City has pledged to reduce its carbon emissions 20 percent below 1990 levels by 2012, said Johanna Gregory Partin, director of climate protection initiatives for the Mayors Office. Its a very aggressive goal, Gregory Partin said. We are working on it.http://www.sfexaminer.com/local/SF-hits-goal-for-carbon-emissions--92382069.html#ixzz0mbUYfbtr

6. UC Research Centers to Produce Roadmap to a Sustainable Future for CaliforniaInstitute for the Future, in collaboration with California Institute of Telecommunications and Information Technology (Calit2) at UC San Diego and UC Irvine, and Center for Information Technology Research in the Interest of Society (CITRIS) at UC Berkeley, announced today the launch of a project focused on ensuring a sustainable future of California for the next ten years and beyond. Together with thought leaders from a diverse range of disciplines -- including economics, energy, water, health, technology and others -- the group will produce a comprehensive roadmap of key issues facing California in the next 10 years and beyond and their likely impacts. http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/institute-for-the-future-kicks,1315939.shtml

June 2, 2010

1. UC Davis releases Climate Action PlanThe University of California system has set a target for all ten UC campuses to return to 2000 emission levels by 2014. According to the new report, released on Tuesday, UC Davis achieved that target in 2008, six years ahead of schedule, and has set a new 2014 goal to reduce campus emissions by an additional 10 percent, to 210,000 metric tons...Since 1990, the number of students, faculty and staff has grown by nearly half, while our built square footage has increased by more than 80%, Assistant Vice Chancellor Sid England said. Scaling back to 1990 emissions levels within the next decade while maintaining enrollment accessibility and affordability for every eligible student, enhancing research and promoting public service will require aggressive additional effort and demand the involvement of the whole campus community....For example, the university will evaluate whether to decommission 100,000 square feet of energy-inefficient space each year for 10 years, and whether to require all new capital projects to be greenhouse-gas neutral after 2012.http://www.news.ucdavis.edu/search/news_detail.lasso?id=9522

2. New website explores UC Davis' "Sustainable Second Century"The website describes UC Davis examination of current campus operations -- from landscape irrigation to laboratory work to heating and cooling -- and its challenge to envision a more sustainable environment. Sections of the site explain the campuss progress toward sustainability goals, research in critical fields, how students can get involved and how community members can take action to support campus goals. Some highlights include:* UC Davis has pledged to become a "zero waste" campus by 2020. The campus currently diverts 76 percent of its waste into recycling, composting or other means of avoiding a landfill. The goal is to make that 100 percent, with the exception of hazardous and medical waste.* More than 21 percent of food purchases for campus dining halls are from local, certified organic or other sustainable sources.* More than 75 percent of all commutes to UC Davis in 2008-09 were made by walking, biking, carpooling, riding a bus or taking a train.http://www.news.ucdavis.edu/search/news_detail.lasso?id=9523

3. UC Davis Annual Report Announces Plans for a "Sustainable Second Century"As we show in this report, UC Davis is an influential academic leader in every aspect of

sustainability. While many universities boast how green their campus is, few can rival UC Davis in its overall research, innovation and solutions, environmental stewardship and campus commitment to sustainability...UC Davis is becoming a destination and model for sustainable change. The university is drawing experts and visionaries to learn from on-campus resources such as a pilot bio-digester; sustainable agriculture demonstration gardens; the California Lighting Technology Center; and projects under construction, such as the worlds first brewery and winery that will achieve LEED platinum status, and UC Davis West Village, projected to be one of the first communities in the nation to achieve zero net energy on an annual basis.http://AnnualReport.ucdavis.edu

4. UC Merced to Test Sustainable Landscape Rating System UC Merced will be one of the first landscapes to participate in the Sustainable Sites Initiative, taking part in a pilot program to test the nations first rating system for green landscape design, construction and maintenance. UC Merced will use its planned Science and Engineering 2 building as the template for the pilot project. Like the other pilot projects, the site will help officials evaluate how practical and effective a tool the point system is for determining different levels of site sustainability. The 250-point scale evaluates landscaping in terms of site selection, water use, soil and vegetation, choice of materials and other factors in accordance with the groups Guidelines and Performance Benchmarks 2009.http://www.ucmerced.edu/news_articles/05262010_uc_merced_to_test.asp

5. U California San Diego Receives Access to TrolleySan Diegos Metropolitan Transit System Board of Directors has endorsed a trolley extension that would provide direct service to the University of California, San Diego. The new route will provide students with an alternative means of transportation.

6. AASHE 2010 Awards Program Accepting Applications

AASHE invites applications for our 2010 AASHE Awards. All winners will be announced at the AASHE 2010 conference in October, and will be featured in Sustainability: The Journal of Record. The deadline to apply is July 1.

The award categories are: Campus Sustainability Case Study Awards This category, which is new for 2010, includes

two awards: "Best Campus Case Study" and "The Oops! Award for Lessons Learned". Student Sustainability Leadership Award This award includes a $750 prize and is granted

to an undergraduate student from an AASHE member institution who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in promoting campus sustainability.

Student Research on Campus Sustainability Award This award is for the best research paper of any length that was completed in the previous 12 months and not previously published.

May 27, 2010

1. Washington U in St. Louis Releases Sustainability PlanThe University of Washington in St. Louis has released its Strategic Plan for Environmentally Sustainable Operations. The Plan details the Universitys sustainability achievements, aspirations, and challenges in terms of energy and water use, food sources, recycling, and transportation,

among others. Goals included in the plan are: to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 without purchasing carbon offsets; to build more sustainably by meeting at least LEED Silver qualifications and pursuing LEED Gold when appropriate; and to decrease solo-occupancy vehicles coming to campus by 10 percent by 2012. The plan was developed by the Sustainable Operations Leadership Council. See also: Washington U's Sustainability Strategic Plan Article in St.Louis Business Journal mentions Wash. U. green building commitment: http://www.bizjournals.com/stlouis/stories/2010/04/19/focus8.html

2. U Michigan Releases New Sustainability WebsiteThe University of Michigan has launched a new U-M Sustainability Website to showcase its ongoing achievements in sustainability research, teaching, and university operations, as well as to raise campus awareness of and engagement in related issues and activities...U-M makes its contribution to sustainability through multiple avenues: education, research, operations and wide-ranging collaborations, says Don Scavia, special counsel to the U-M president for sustainability...We will take U-Ms long record of operational achievement to the next level with bold new campus sustainability goals, says Terry Alexander, executive director of the Office of Campus Sustainability. We need the participation of faculty, students and staff to create a campus second to none in environmental leadership. Boosting campus awareness will be key to meeting our new goals. See also: U-M Sustainability Website

3. Stanford U Students Campaign for Sustainability in the CurriculumA group of students at Stanford University (CA) have begun a campaign to include sustainability as a topic area in Stanford's "Education for Citizenship" (EC) general education requirement. EC mandates that undergraduates take classes in two of four designated areas: ethical reasoning, global community, American cultures, and gender studies. Students for a Sustainable Stanford (SSS), the group that has helped develop the initiative, is working to develop a proposal and plans to present it to faculty for feedback.

4. Rice U Announces Green Dorm InitiativeRice University (TX) has announced the Green Dorm Initiative, a program which encourages students to reevaluate their living habits by rating the environmental friendliness of their dorm rooms. When students register, they complete a questionnaire about their laundry habits, appliance and lighting usage, water consumption and recycling practices. For the next two weeks, participants complete a daily log about their energy and water usage. After the program finishes on April 22, students' rooms will be certified as bronze, silver, or gold and participants will receive prizes.

5. Indiana U Launches Pilot Project to be Greenest in Big 10The Indiana University Athletic Department has launched the pilot project Greening Cream & Crimson, an effort to become the greenest athletic department in the Big Ten Conference. As part of the initiative, IU will offset carbon produced by electricity use, transportation, and food consumption during the game by trading out 100 watt incandescent bulbs with the equivalent 23 watt Condensed Fluorescent Lights (CFLs) in the area. Other projects will include recycling during tailgating, recycling inside Memorial Stadium, reducing vendor waste, collecting cell phones for recycling, and offering valet parking for bicycles. In addition to these new green initiatives, campus environmental groups are invited to set up educational booths in Memorial

Stadium during the game to highlight other on-campus sustainability efforts.

6. Newspaper reports on Clemson's commitment to net zero carbon emissionsSouth Carolina's Greenville News (4/17, Simon) reported, "The Clemson University campus, where one of three smokestacks still spews coal -- to the chagrin of today's environmentally conscious students -- will become a net-zero carbon emissions university and a model for sustainability, Clemson President James Barker announced Friday." Barker's "commitment to clean energy on campus is ground zero for a larger picture: Clemson's commitment is to create green jobs, prepare people to fill them, and generate innovations to help propel the state and nation into position as global energy leaders."

May 24, 2010

1. First, Do No Harm: The Role of Sustainability in the Education of Health ProfessionalsEvery year thousands of students enter college and graduate programs in medicine, nursing, allied health and public health. As we move into the 21st century, it is imperative that health program curricula incorporate education on issues of sustainability as an integrated part of training for future health care providers. We live in a world with enormous environmental challenges, including unsustainable population growth, global climate change, and shortages of food, water, and fuel. How do such challenges impact the work of health providers? The World Health Organization (WHO, 2006) estimates that 13 million deaths annually are attributed to preventable environmental causes, representing 23% of all premature mortality. In addition, the environmental burden of disease falls disproportionately on the poor (WHO, 2006). Environmental sustainability is inherently linked and inseparable from global health and human rights…http://www.journalofsustainabilityeducation.org/wordpress/content/first-do-no-harm-the-role-of-sustainability-in-the-education-of-health-professionals_2010_05/

2. UCLA Health System Cafeterias Switch to Compostable ProductsUCLA Health System recently improved its efforts to promote a healthier environment by replacing nearly all of the food service disposable products in the Dining Commons at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center (RRUCLA) and cafeteria at Santa Monica-UCLA Medical Center and Orthopaedic Hospital (SMUCLA) with sustainable, renewable products that are compostable and biodegradable...UCLA Health System is also taking steps to promote healthy eating while promoting a healthy environment by offering meatless entrees, made-to-order salads, bison burgers and other foods produced using sustainable agricultural methods. Reducing meat consumption correlates with reducing total livestock production, which in turn reduces methane gas pollution.http://townhall.mednet.ucla.edu/hs_news/may2010/1005p7.html

3. Rush U Medical Center Building Awarded LEED GoldThe Orthopedic Building at Rush University Medical Center (IL) has received LEED Gold certification. The 220,000-square-foot medical office building, which houses outpatient services for orthopedics and sports medicine, opened in November 2009 and features a green roof; permeable pavement; recycled product for concrete, steel, and ceilings; and 50 percent local construction materials. Rush is also seeking LEED

certification for a new hospital building, a 14-story 841,000-square-foot in-patient building currently under construction.

4. Kaiser Permanente Reveals Sustainability Scorecard for Medical Products

For an example of the scorecard and another article on this topic with further links, see also: http://www.environmentalleader.com/2010/05/04/kaiser-permanente-launches-sustainability-scorecard-for-medical-products/?graph=full&id=1

When it came time for Kaiser Permanente to look at a new purchasing contract for endoscopy towers, a piece of equipment that facilitates medical procedures with cameras that can go into a patient's digestive tract, the health care provider launched into an 18-month review process. In the end, tests showed that the performance of the four major suppliers' products was comparable, as was the price. In the end, one factor decided the purchase: sustainability.

That type of decisionmaking will become standard with the implementation of Kaiser Permanente's new Sustainability Scorecard. The company will evaluate all new contracts and products along 10 criteria to assess the environmental impact of everything from bed pans to pacemakers to MRI machines.

When purchasing the endoscopy towers, for example, evaluators found that one bidder had a process that could sterilize the cameras without using harmful chemicals. That not only made the product safer to handle, but more sustainable, said Robert Gotto, executive director in Kaiser Permanente's Procurement & Supply group. That company ended up with a new five-year contract, largely thanks to its sustainability.

"Kaiser Permanent recognizes we can improve health today and for the future by taking a close look at the products we purchase," said Vice President and Chief Procurement Officer Dean Edwards in a release. "With Kaiser Permanente's size and influence, the work we're doing is continuing to move the industry."

The company currently spends more than $1 billion on medical products each year. If its supply chain partner Broadlane adopts the scorecard, the influence could reach $10 billion of medical equipment contracts.

The scorecard will evaluate products for 10 criteria, six dealing with the chemicals used in the product. Other criteria include the amount of recycled material in the equipment, the way it is packaged and shipped, and its ability to be reused. There are also eight additional questions about how the supplier matches up against various third-party criteria, such as following U.S. EPA's SMART Waste guidelines.

"Now we have a tool that is embedded in our normal sourcing and bidding process with specific detailed information on environmental concerns," Gotto said. "That gets fed

back directly to the clinicians that are making the decisions so they can understand them and factor that in."

The scorecard is an extension of an environmental policy set up in 2005 that required full disclosure for companies when making contracts with Kaiser Permanente. It was officially launched last October and just last week the national product council made its first purchase using the scorecard. The suppliers could not be disclosed because the deal is not finished, but Gotto described the new contract as "significant." He added that the council, which was influential in writing the criteria for the scorecard, had a "fantastic response" to the new information.

Kaiser Permanente is also working with Practice Greenhealth, a network of health care providers, suppliers and purchasers committed to environmental work. Gotto said the company has been sharing its work with other members of that network and expects others to take similar steps. Between Kaiser Permanente and Broadlane alone, Gotto estimated they can reach 10-15 percent of the medical supply industry.

Kaiser Permanente has made sustainability a large factor in purchasing for years, buying IV tubing without potentially harmful chemicals and PVC-free gloves. But Gotto said the new scorecard will allow a much more comprehensive look at a supplier's environmental impact.

"What we've done historically is target areas where we know there's a big opportunity," Gotto said. "We've had some really big environmental wins. But this gives us the ability to collect that information on every single contract and cycle. ... What this tool does is give us the second rung on every single product."

One particular area the company is emphasizing is the ability to reuse a product. Gotto said more than 70 percent of products are only used once, then disposed of. Instead, purchasers are hoping to buy more equipment that can be sterilized by FDA standards or rebuilt to cut down on waste. For example, some standard hospital electronics can be replaced by updating 5 percent of the product and resold at a significantly lower price.

Gotto said that beyond the environmental benefits of the scorecard, Kaiser Permanente had seen significant financial benefits from its sustainable purchases. Of 14 new products purchased with environmental factors in mind, none showed a cost increase. For example, a line of linens that did not use certain targeted chemicals ended up costing $1 million less.

"We have three specific goals: deliver significant cost savings, help with general improvements and the third deals with environmental benefits," Gotto said. "You can achieve it all with the right purchaser."

May 10, 2010

1. NY Times Publishes Article on EPA's Energy Star Label for DormsThe New York Times has published an article on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Energy Star labels for college and universities dormitories. The article mentions two green residence halls at Ithaca College (NY) and one green residence hall at Hamilton College (NY).

2. Associated Press Covers Green College Graduation Caps and GownsThe Associated Press has published an article on the growing number of colleges and universities that are holding environmentally-friendly commencement ceremonies this year. The article mentions the recent introduction of eco-conscious graduation gown by academic apparel manufacturers. Caps and gowns can be made from recycled plastic bottles or be biodegradable. Higher education institutions noted in the article include the University of New Hampshire, Colby College (ME), and the University of Vermont.

3. Christian Science Monitor Covers Green College Graduation GownsChristian Science Monitor has published an article on the growing number of colleges and universities that are switching to green graduation caps and gowns and are implementing green initiatives such as offering diplomas made from recycled paper and taking sustainability pledges as part of the ceremony. Most green gowns are made from recycled plastic bottles. The article mentions California Western School of Law, University of Texas at Austin, Harper College (IL), and the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.

4. Dean of UCB College of Environmental Design on sustainability and role of public universitiesSustainability is about action, Wolch says. Its one thing to understand a system and how it works; its another thing to think about how you use that knowledge, with other kinds of knowledge, to devise solutions to problems. It requires a different way of thinking, a willingness to experiment, and cross-disciplinary work....Wolch thinks academia has several important roles to play in developing and promulgating sustainability. First, the academy trains the next generation of architects, planners, and thinkers. Second, academics are equipped and positioned to do the basic research that supports and advances sustainable concepts. And third, academics can work in the intersection between policy and practice... Academics who work in areas like environmental design really need to be public intellectuals, engaged in policy or work related to it, she says. And I think being at Berkeley or Cal State as part of the public university system it really is incumbent upon us to have at least part of our agenda be directed toward how the future should unfold and the policies we need to make that future a positive one.http://www20.csueastbay.edu/news/magazine/stories/spring-2010-story-jennifer-wolch.html#column-center

5. UC Davis, UC Berkeley awarded funding to launch sustainable development Masters degree programsUC Berkeley and UC Davis are among 10 universities that will receive $5.6 milion from the MacArthur Foundation to establish master's degree programs in sustainable development. The grants are to be used to establish development practice programs that combine training in the natural sciences, social sciences, health sciences and management to address global challenges such as sustainable development, climate change and extreme poverty. UC Berkeley and UC Davis were the only two U.S. universities given grants this week from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation to set up the program. The UC campuses and eight foreign universities

selected are to be part of a global network of 20 schools offering advanced degrees in sustainable development practices. Last year, five U.S. and five foreign universities became the first to join the network. http://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/news/article/23332

April 26, 2010

1. CNN Posts Video on Sustainability at U Colorado BoulderCNN has posted a video on sustainability initiatives at the University of Colorado, Boulder. "The Greenest University in America" covers the UC Boulder's composting program, zero-waste football games, biodiesel buses, hybrid campus vehicle, solar farm, water-bottled refill stations, the Campus Environmental Center, recycling center, and the University's effort to teach students to live more sustainably.

2. Eight UC campuses listed in "The Princeton Review’s Guide to 286 Green Colleges"The guide is "an effort to recognize the impressive environmental and sustainability programs at universities and colleges across the country," Princeton Review said in a statement...Hundreds of universities nationwide were surveyed to ascertain an institutions commitment to using USBC's LEED green building certification program, environmental literacy programs, formal sustainability committees, use of renewable energy resources, recycling and conservation programs, among other criteria. In 2009, the Princeton Review published Green Rating scores for 697 schools. Out of those schools, the 286 schools in the current guide received scores in the 80th or higher percentile. The Princeton Review does not rank the schools in the guide hierarchically. The guide is free and can be downloaded at www.princetonreview.com/greenguide and www.usgbc.org/campus. UCOP brief press release: http://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/news/article/23235 UCSD article: http://ucsdnews.ucsd.edu/newsrel/general/04-20Environmentally-Responsible.aspUSA Today articles: http://www.usatoday.com/news/education/2010-04-20-greencolleges20_ST_N.htm

3. UC Santa Cruz Wins Acterra 2010 Business Environmental AwardUC Santa Cruz has been selected to receive Acterra's 2010 Business Environmental Award in Pollution Prevention/Resource Conservation -- Large Organization for its outstanding sustainability projects and programs. UC Santa Cruz's waste prevention, green transportation, and energy efficiency programs all helped to secure the top spot in its category. Additionally, the judges were impressed by the collaborative nature of sustainability on our campus. UC Santa Cruz prides itself on including students, staff, faculty and administration to green our campus and lead the way worldwide in the sustainability in higher education movement...Our awardees must demonstrate their environmental commitment and achievements through a careful vetting process, states Board President Laura Teksler. In addition to a thorough written application, the top contenders must demonstrate their programs merits firsthand to the judges during a visit to the applicants facilities. By the time they are selected to receive our award, they have truly proven that their programs are setting the bar in corporate environmental leadership.http://sustainability.ucsc.edu/node/76#acterra

4. UC Santa Cruz releases draft Campus Sustainability Plan 1.0

The draft UCSC Campus Sustainability Plan 1.0 was released this week. A collaborative document created by staff, students, faculty and administrators, the Campus Sustainability Plan outlines measurable goals in every area of campus life for 2010-2013, as well as an overarching vision of a sustainable campus by 2020. For more information and to read the plan, go to http://sustainability.ucsc.edu

The campus will be soliciting comments on the draft through June 20, 2010. Please send comments to sustain@ucsc.edu

5. Clemson U Announces Sustainability Strategic PlanClemson University (SC) has released a three-part sustainability strategic plan. The white paper, titled Clemson Universitys Commitment to Green Economic Development, draws from the proceedings of two energy-related summits Clemson hosted in late 2009. Clemsons commitment comprises three key elements: educational programs, from certifications to graduate levels, to enhance the skills of the current work force in energy-related industries and prepare the next generation of talent; innovation and technology transfer through growth of research in targeted areas and continued development of the Universitys innovation campuses; and an initiative to transform the main campus into a national model for sustainability: a net-zero carbon emissions university. See also: Clemson Whitepaper See also: List of Campus Sustainability Plans (AASHE Members Only)

April 12, 2010

1. Video interview with Berkeley engineers on greener choices at the gymShort interview with Kimberly Lau and Maha Haji, two Berkeley mechanical engineers who want to make workouts at the gym kinder on the planet. Last year they started their project, Human Power Generation in Fitness Facilities, to find out. Watch as they explore these questions and learn how you can make greener choices at the gym.http://innovations.coe.berkeley.edu/vol4-issue3-apr10/workout

2. Sustainable Industries Magazine Covers Campus SustainabilityUCSB and UCSD are mentioned in an article by AASHE's executive director in Sustainable Industries magazine. In the article, Rowland discusses the trends of campus sustainability and the ways the movement has progressed over the past few years.

3. List of Campus Green Cleaning Programs and PoliciesAASHE has published a new resource that lists campus green cleaning policies and programs that exist independently of other campus sustainability plans. The new resource is only available to AASHE members.

4. California Polytechnic State U to Launch Ctr for SustainabilityCalifornia Polytechnic State University's College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences (CAFES) has announced plans to launch its Center for Sustainability later this month. The new Center will support CAFES and university initiatives in sustainable practices in resource management and agriculture. The Center will facilitate cross-disciplinary collaborations on campus and will assist the Central Coast food and agricultural community by helping professionals make the most of exciting opportunities emerging in their field.

5. Lehigh U, Lafayette College Offer Eco-Friendly Graduation GownsLehigh University (PA) and Lafayette College (PA) have announced plans to offer environmentally friendly graduation gowns this year. Lehigh University has opted to offer graduation gowns that will be used in the future. After the ceremony, gowns will be cleaned with earth-safe products. Lafayette College's gowns will be made to be worn once and to quickly biodegrade. The gowns are made from acetate fibers made of wood from managed forests and decompose completely within a year of being buried in soil.

March 29, 2010

1. U System of Ohio Releases Sustainability WebsiteThe University System of Ohio has unveiled a new sustainability website, "USO Sustainability." The site is designed to be both a forum and a resource for faculty, prospective students, and anyone interested in sustainability efforts at Ohio's higher education institutions. The site offers a calendar of events, information and links to USO programs, a forum for discussion and input on the direction of the USO and sustainability, individual school sustainability profiles, and resources and links for research. See also: USO Sustainability Website

2. York U Completes First Sustainability ReportYork University (ON) has completed its first "President's Sustainability Council Annual Report" for the 2008-2009 school year. The 30-page report lists sustainability achievements and awards, sustainability policy recommendations, recommendations regarding university programs and practices, the Council's planning process and vision, an inventory of internal and external sustainability-related groups at York, an inventory of student sustainability groups, a listing of campus services and business operations sustainability initiatives, and an inventory of community engagement from the Office of University Events and Community Relations. See also: York U Sustainability Report (pdf)

3. Appalachian State U Approves Green Campus Master PlanThe Appalachian State University (NC) Board of Trustees has approved the Campus Master Plan 2020 which focuses on appropriate use of campus property, ecological responsibility and sustainability, and a transportation network that encourages walking, biking, and use of AppalCart transit system. The plan recommends encouragement of ride sharing, the purchase of electric cars for use by the Physical Plant, on-street and off-street bike routes, hybrid plug-in stations in new and existing parking decks, and use of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards for new campus construction. See also: ASU Campus Master Plan See also: List of Campus Master Plans that Include Sustainability (AASHE Members Only)

4. Luther College Printing Cap Reduces Paper UsageLuther College (IA) has announced that it has significantly reduced its printing paper use in the 2009-10 academic year due to the colleges implementation of the GoPrint print management solution in January 2009. With approximately 2,200 students on campus during fall semester 2009, each with a GoPrint allocation of 400 pages of printing, there was the potential for nearly 900,000 pages to be printed; however, only 307,948 pages were actually used. GoPrint, a program that tracks printing usage and allocates printing costs on campus, is part of a campus-

wide effort to reduce paper waste and encourage better management of resources. The printing service was implemented as part of the Luther College Library and Information Services sustainability effort to reduce the amount of printing done on campus.

5. Claremont McKenna College Ranks Liberal Arts Colleges on SustainabilityThe Roberts Environmental Center of Claremont McKenna College has adapted its Pacific Sustainability Index which grades the ways that organizations report and publicize their sustainability efforts on their Web sites to the college market. The center's report examined the top 50 liberal-arts colleges, as ranked by the U.S. News & Word Report. The report lists the top five colleges in sustainability reporting as: Williams College (MA), Bucknell University (PA), Amherst College (MA), Colorado College, and Gettysburg College (PA). The Roberts Environmental Center is also working on a sustainability-reporting index for top research universities. See also: REC Report

March 15, 20101. UCSD Launches Energy Dashboard WebsiteMany colleges, though not enough, closely monitor their power consumption in order to save money and reduce their environmental impact. But few go as far as the University of California at San Diego, which this week debuted a Web site that makes detailed, real-time data about campus energy use public information.The Web site, called the Energy Dashboard, shows continually updated data about the consumption of the 60 largest buildings on the campus. Visitors can compare the power consumption of buildings across the campus or break downhttp://chronicle.com/blogPost/Energy-Use-Web-Site-Shows-a/22187/

2. UCSD Dining Now Serving Cafe MotoWe're pleased to introduce a responsible new coffee that acts as good as it tastes. Caf頍 oto is a San Diego-based, family owned Organic and Fair Trade roasting business. This delicious new brew is roasted daily, and customers can feel good about drinking it, knowing that the company treats workers fairly, has on-site recycling, minimizes waste, runs on solar power, and was voted Best Coffee by San Diego City Search!http://hdh.ucsd.edu/diningservices/

3. UCSC Computer Labs Use 100% recycled-content paper, double-sided printingStarting this Spring quarter, double-sided printing will be available in all Learning Technologies computer labs. We've overcome various technical and staffing challenges to enable this feature which has consistently been the most requested by students over the years (and one of our highest priorities). To print double-sided, just hit print, and your job will automatically print double-sided. For more information, and to see the environmental benefits of our 100% recycled paper program, visit http://ic.ucsc.edu/services/printing/

4. UCSC Reunion Weekend (Saturday, April 17, 12 - 4 PM)Reconnect with classmates, favorite faculty members, your college and your department. Current students welcome! Check out the Sustainability Tent for demonstrations sponsored by various campus environmental organizations. Live Music Alumni Beer and Wine Robotics Demo SustainabilityWorkshops Science Labs Climbing Wall Student Dance Performances Bring your family for all the

fun! For more information click here

5. UCSB Reaches Out to Santa Barbara, Isla Vista for Earth Day FestivitiesUC Santa Barbara will be spreading the word about its model sustainability programs and nanotechnology research at events being held in Santa Barbara and Isla Vista for Earth Day 2010...David Cleveland, a professor of environmental studies and UCSB's first Sustainability Champion, will be one of the event's featured speakers, at 11 a.m. on April 18. Cleveland and his students will discuss local produce and the importance of purchasing locally grown food. This is not the first time that UCSB has participated in the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival, but it's the campus's biggest commitment ever to the event, according to Jill Richardson, campus sustainability coordinator. "It's really important for us to make an effort to get out in the community and let them know what we're doing here," Richardson said. "We need to let them know how they can get involved in some of the programs we have on campus, and how our students can become involved in some of the programs out in the community."http://www.ia.ucsb.edu/pa/display.aspx?pkey=2216

March 1, 2010

1. UCSD and UCI: Campuses as living laboratories for a greener futureHigher education institutions have a long and successful history of creating both scientific and technological innovations for the benefit of society. Indeed, the U.S. land-grant institutions were established, in large part, to support the need for leading-edge research in the dominant industry of the time: agriculture. Today, those of us in higher education have the opportunity to recommit ourselves to enabling societal transformation by using our campus cities as proofs of concept for the green infrastructure revolution. By focusing not only on how we can make our campus cyberinfrastructure more energy-efficient, but also on how we can use that cyberinfrastructure for even larger energy savings in our building and transportation infrastructure, as well as adopting dematerialization tactics, we can learn a number of best practices that can be transferred to society at large, thereby speeding the day when global GHG levels will stabilize.[attached]

2. Pomona College student's thesis examines food purchases - UC Davis cited as positive exampleScripps and Harvey Mudds dining halls, like Pomonas, are managed by Sodexo, a multinational food services company, whereas Pitzer and Claremont McKenna are managed by Bon Appetit, a company with more than 400 locations in 29 states. At the very least, Bon Apetit has better labeling, Meyer said. Meyer, Close, Assistant Director of Campus Services Margie McKenna and General Manager of Dining Services Dave Janosky took a trip to UC-Davis in February to compare the schools dining halls. UC-Daviss dining operations are also managed by Sodexo. Meyer discovered, Theres a lot of flexibility in how Sodexo operates in different schools. UC-Daviss Real Food percentage, as stated in their 2009 Sustainable Foodservices Practices Report, is 21 percent, much higher than Pomonas, so Meyer and Close are currently investigating the differences.http://tsl.pomona.edu/new/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=928:pomona-students-thesis-investigates-frarys-food&catid=42:pomona&Itemid=88

3. Berkeley's Campus Dashboard Makes Campus Consumption Visible

Have you ever wondered how much energy and water are being used on campus? Have you contemplated what your portion of the consumption is? Could you use data to better track your resource consumption and work to reduce it? These are the type of questions that have been motivating a small group of Berkeley students to develop the Berkeley Campus Dashboard (http://dashboard.berkeley.edu/building/).see article on page 6: http://sustainability.berkeley.edu/os/pages/newsletter/docs/BrightGreenNewsV13_0310.pdf

4. UCB Business School receives two five-star ratings in "A Guide to Business Schools Making a Difference"In the Aspen Institutes 2010-2011 guide to MBA programs and how they are integrating social, ethical and environmental impact into their academic and extracurricular offerings, Haas scored five (out of five) star ratings in Relevant Coursework Available and Relevant Courses on For-Profit Impact. Relevant Coursework Available measures the number of courses offered at each school that contain social, environmental, and/or ethical content while Relevant Courses on For-Profit Impact looks at courses that explore how business can be a force for positive social and environmental change.http://responsiblebusiness.haas.berkeley.edu/PressRelease31910.html

5. California CCs Receive Grants for Green Job TrainingSempra Energy Foundations has given 10 California community colleges a total of $250,000 in grants. Each institution received $25,000 to use as scholarships for students joining green job training programs. Awarded colleges include: Citrus College, Fullerton College, Glendale Community College, Imperial Valley Community College, Los Angeles Trade Tech, Riverside Community College, San Diego City Community College, Santa Ana Community College, Southwestern Community College, and Taft Community College.