Syracuse University

College Sustainability Report Card 2007

The University has several committees addressing campus sustainability issues, including an Energy Council, a Utility Committee, and a Building Sustainability Committee. An energy conservation manager was hired in 1992, and is now accompanied by a staff of 12. Some highlights from their work include a $1.8 million investment in energy efficiency, a LEED-certification policy for all new building and renovation projects, and the purchase of renewable energy credits equal to 22,000 megawatt-hours of small-hydro and wind energy, making Syracuse the seventh-largest higher education purchaser of renewable energy in the country. The Syracuse Center of Excellence (CoE) in Environmental and Energy Systems develops advancements to improve sustainability in built and urban environments.

Among the country's institutions of higher education, Syracuse is the seventh-largest purchaser of renewable energy. Renewable energy supplies 20 percent of its energy needs, or 22,000 megawatt-hours, with small-hyrdo and wind energy. All renewable energy is derived from local producers in New York State. A $12.8 million project updated the mechanical systems in more than 200 buildings, resulting in energy savings the following year of more than $1.8 million. Additionally, a major lighting upgrade to incorporate LED technology went on in the 1990s.

Dining Services makes an effort to incorporate local foods into the menu, including produce, dairy, turkey, and barbequed offerings. Mugs are given out at the beginning of the year for use in the dining halls, and each fall a "Taste of Central New York" dinner is held to introduce the student body to local foods and attractions. The University recycles, but does not compost their waste.

The University has been committed to LEED guidelines for all new building and renovation projects since 2005, but has been including sustainable features in its buildings for quite some time. Two major projects already underway have past the deadline to register for LEED certification, but sustainable practices will be implemented to the extent possible. The future Center of Excellence in Environmental and Energy Systems will seek the highest certification possible.

The University 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 University has not made any public statements about active ownership or a proxy voting policy.