SF State News {University Communications}

Image: Photos of SF State students and scenes from around campus

University lauded for environmental efforts

April 22, 2010 -- SF State has been recognized by The Princeton Review as one of the nation's top 286 environmentally-responsible colleges and universities.

A photo of four students placing bottles in a recycling bin.

Aggressive recycling programs helped land SF State in "The Princeton Review’s Guide to 286 Green Colleges,"

The University is listed in “The Princeton Review’s Guide to 286 Green Colleges," which recognizes institutions that have demonstrated a dedication to sustainability in infrastructure, activities and initiatives.

In the rankings, SF State was recognized for a variety of environmental activities, including: a wide selection of degree offerings related to sustainability, research opportunities available at the Romberg Tiburon Center and surrounding wetlands, as well as campus-wide composting activities and efforts to encourage biking.

The rankings were developed through a partnership with the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and examined universities based on each institution’s commitment to building certification using USGBC’s LEED green building certification program; environmental literacy programs; formal sustainability committees; use of renewable energy resources and recycling and conservation programs among others.

SF State's efforts have already yielded significant results. A recent greenhouse gas survey found the University has reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to 1990 rates. The University has launched new sustainability initiatives including: reducing energy and water usage, increasing waste diversion, creating more alternative transportation options, offering sustainable dining choices, implementing green cleaning, purchasing environmentally preferred products and planting native species.

“SF State is institutionalizing sustainability through a concerted campus-wide effort," said Caitlin Steele, sustainability programs manager. "Our inclusion in the Princeton Review list of green schools is a testament to the sustainability work of the students, faculty and staff.”

SF State founded its Campus Sustainability Committee in fall 2008. The committee works with faculty, students, staff and administrators to stimulate discussion and ideas to facilitate the adoption of practices, policies and projects designed to improve the environmental, social and economic sustainability of the campus community.

For more information on sustainability efforts on campus, visit www.sfsu.edu/~sustain/

For more information about the rankings, visit www.princetonreview.com/green-guide.aspx

-- Michael Bruntz

 

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