Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The Institute has a sustainability office with four staff dedicated to campus issues, which have included extensive light retrofitting, a minimum LEED Silver certification for all new buildings, and a collaboration with the City of Cambridge to reduce emissions levels to 20 percent below 1990 levels by 2010. A major research initiative focused on sustainable energy demonstrates MIT's commitment to leadership in energy research and education, and environmental stewardship.

The Institute has carried out a recent Carbon Emissions Inventory, has retrofitted many campus lights with more efficient models, has installed solar panels on several of its buildings, and has worked with the City of Cambridge to convert their diesel truck fleets to cleaner fuels. In addition, the MIT Community Solar Power Initiative has installed 25 solar photovoltaic power systems in the community.

The primary dormitory food service provider is committed to integrating sustainable food practices in its operations. Food waste is composted for a local nursery and recycling covers the normal range of bottles and papers, with the addition of construction materials, as well. In 2005, MIT recycled 40 percent of the total amount of trash generated on campus.

All new buildings and major renovations must meet or exceed the LEED Silver certification. Extensive light retrofitting began as early as 1996 and further retrofitting with new technologies will take place in the winter of 2006. Additionally, facilities operations are very efficient and recover excess energy to heat buildings.

The Institute has no known policy of disclosure of endowment holdings or its shareholder voting record.

The University prioritizes investing to maximize profit and has not made any public statements about investigating or investing in renewable energy funds or community development loan funds.

The MIT Corporation Advisory Committee on Shareholder Responsibility, formed in 1971, met in September 2006 for the first time since 1999 to discuss the issues surrounding possible divestment from Sudan. The ACSR was active regarding South Africa, and was recently reactivated to address Sudan. At this time, members of the Corporation, faculty, staff and student body sit on the committee.