Indiana State
University (ISU) recognizes its vulnerability to the impacts of climate
change as well as the need to reduce the use of fossil fuels and our
carbon footprint. This
University also recognizes that state institutions like (ISU) are major
consumers of energy and natural resources, and should recognize the need
to reduce the use of non-renewable resources and to increase energy
efficiency. ISU recognizes its obligation to be wise stewards of scarce
resources, and to promote the continued economic and ecological
viability of the State.
In September of 2007, President Benjamin solidified ISU’s interest in
becoming a sustainable campus by signing the American College &
University
Presidents Climate Commitment.
As part of ISU’s commitment to
sustainability, plans are underway to develop a comprehensive and
compliant Sustainability Program.
The Sustainability Program will be consistent with the requirements of the
President’s Climate Commitment, including:
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Hosting a forum on sustainability to include campus and community
leaders, politicians, other local universities.
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The establishment of the overall coordinating structure including the
formation of a council, steering committee, task force, or focus group
to help the Sustainability Office communicate with campus, both inviting
input and publishing goals and accomplishments.
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Initiating the development of a comprehensive plan to achieve climate
neutrality as soon as possible.
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The creation of institutional structures to guide the development and
implementation of the neutrality plan.
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The completion of a comprehensive inventory of all greenhouse gas
emissions (including emissions from electricity, heating, commuting, and
air travel). Updates to the
inventory will be completed every other year thereafter.
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Completing a 10-year historic emission inventory for ISU’s campus,
including remote properties.
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Development of a target date for achieving climate neutrality.
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Defining targets for goals and actions that will lead to climate
neutrality.
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Develop actions to make climate neutrality and sustainability a part of
the curriculum at ISU.
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Expand research or other efforts necessary to achieve climate
neutrality.
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Development of mechanisms for tracking progress on goals and actions.
ISU will initiate two or more of the following tangible actions to reduce greenhouse gases while the more comprehensive plan is being developed.
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Establish a policy that all new campus construction will be built to at
least the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED Silver standard or
equivalent.
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Adopt an energy-efficient appliance purchasing policy requiring the
purchase of Energy Star certified products in all areas for which such
ratings exist.
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Establish a policy of offsetting all greenhouse gas emissions generated
by air travel paid for by our institution.
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Encourage use of and provide access to public transportation for all
faculty, staff, students and visitors at our institution.
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Within one year of signing this document, begin purchasing or producing
at least 15% of our institution’s electricity consumption from renewable
sources.
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Provide a societal role in sustainability by supporting climate and
sustainability shareholder proposals at companies where our
institution’s endowment is invested.
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Participation in Waste Minimization efforts.
ISU’s Department of Facilities Management will continue to provide leadership as campus sustainability efforts move forward. Working with key ISU leadership, we will continually share insights and help determine processes that will engage faculty, students, staff and our community in sustainability efforts across the campus.
ISU will also consider ways to develop partnerships and funding to support the educational, research, and public service missions of higher education as they relate to sustainability. ISU’s hallmark strengths in teaching, applied research, and community service advocate for a special role for ISU in sustaining the continued economic and ecological viability of the state – not only through best institutional practices, but through applied research, education, and service.
