University of Notre Dame

College Sustainability Report Card 2008

The University of Notre Dame’s president recently recreated the Energy and Environmental Issues Committee, comprised of administrators, faculty, and students. It exists in an advisory capacity to the university administration and is charged with raising awareness of environmental issues on campus. In its purchasing policy, Notre Dame looks to the EPA’s Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool for computer purchasing guidelines.

The university power plant has undergone a series of improvements aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. For example, Notre Dame’s combined heat and power plant provides 68 percent efficient use of fuel energy input, resulting in emissions reductions of 69,000 tons. Low-emitting burners have been added to several boilers, reducing emissions further, and plans are underway to continue installing low-emissions equipment.

The university provides local food in its dining areas when it is available. Additionally, food services focuses on offering sustainably produced seafood and coffee. As part of the department’s extensive recycling program, cooking oil is sent to a facility for recycling, and unused food is donated to local organizations for the homeless.

The university’s Office of the Architect recently pledged that LEED certification will be sought for all new buildings, when possible. The new engineering building is seeking LEED certification and will have many environmentally friendly design features addressing water efficiency, energy efficiency, and conservation of resources.

The university has purchased a hybrid vehicle for its motor pool, which is a collection of vehicles that can be rented. The campus community has access to fare-free public transportation. The Eddy Street Commons, a community development to break ground this spring, will include a series of bicycle lanes to facilitate biking to campus.

Information on endowment holdings and proxy voting records is made available to trustees, senior administrators, and other select members of the school community upon request.

The university aims to optimize investment return and is currently invested in renewable energy funds.

A committee of administrators and/or trustees deliberates and makes decisions on proxy votes.