University of Alabama

College Sustainability Report Card 2007

The University of Alabama's Environmental Institute is a program that tackles sustainability issues almost exclusively in the academic realm. A student sustainability group is primarily interested in global issues, so the focus has not been on the University campus. The energy management department has made a commitment to energy conservation through American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) 90.1 energy efficiency standards and lighting upgrades.

The University has not performed a carbon emissions inventory nor has it invested in renewable energy, either on campus, off-campus, or through the purchase of renewable energy credits. Energy efficiency and conservation are encouraged by the energy management department, but there is no formal program in place.

The University does recycle, but has not pursued a composting program. The Dining Services does not have a local or organic food initiative.

The University's energy policy encourages energy conservation and states that energy efficiency standards outlined in ASHRAE 90.1 will be followed as closely as possible. Lighting retrofits and the installation of motion sensors will take place where economically feasible.

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.