Washington and Lee University

College Sustainability Report Card 2008

President Ruscio signed the Presidents Climate Commitment and the university’s Environmental Planning and Management Committee has been working to promote sustainability initiatives on campus. A full-time position for environmental sustainability has been established, and the university’s efforts have made it the first institution of higher education to win Virginia’s Environmental Enterprise designation.

The university has completed a comprehensive environmental audit as well as a greenhouse gas emissions inventory. A $2.5 million energy performance contract helped implement a wide variety of energy and water conservation measures. The university has been researching the feasibility of installing a solar panel array on campus, which is likely to occur fall 2007.

Washington and Lee purchases some local food, as well as cage-free eggs and organic produce. Uncooked food is composted on-site and the compost is then used on campus. Dining services uses biodegradable to-go containers and offers discounts with a reusable mug. Waste grease is used as biodiesel for the campus motor fleet, and the recycling program has a 45 percent diversion rate. The university participates in the Campus Kitchens Project, a community service initiative aimed at turning unused food from college dining halls into nourishing meals for those in need.

The university has adopted a policy of seeking LEED certification on major renovation projects and major new buildings. The first project that will receive LEED accreditation is the renovation of historic Newcomb Hall. The Elrod Student Commons, completed in 2003, and the Wilson Art and Music Building, completed in 2006, also included significant green design elements. The university has installed a number of rain gardens, a filterra system, and a bioretention pond as part of various construction projects.

The university runs its entire fleet of vehicles on biodiesel fuel. Fall 2007, the university will be implementing the Blue Bike Program, through which students, faculty, and staff can share common bicycles.

The university makes a list of endowment holdings available to trustees, senior administrators, and other select members of the school community.

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

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