California Polytechnic State University

College Sustainability Report Card 2009

Cal Poly is a signatory of the Talloires Declaration and has developed a sustainability plan, including a green purchasing policy. The university employs a sustainability manager and a part-time sustainability coordinator. The Vice President's Sustainability Advisory Committee advises, suggests, and reviews sustainability policies.

Cal Poly approved $6 million worth of efficiency, conservation and renewable energy projects. Along with the California State University system, the university has a goal to reduce energy usage by 15 percent from 2004 levels and is also aiming to purchase at least 20 percent of energy supplies from renewable sources by 2010.

Cal Poly buys lettuce greens and seasonable produce from Cal Poly Organic Farm, buys produce from 10 local vendors, and contracts with a local dairy. All to-go containers are either recyclable or compostable, and there is a discount for use of a reusable mug. The university has a comprehensive recycling program with a 70 percent waste diversion rate, as well as composting for food and landscape waste

Cal Poly is currently seeking LEED certification for two building projects. If certification is achieved, approximately 20 percent of the university's conditioned space will be LEED-certified. Cal Poly has a formal green building policy as part of the California State University system which requires new construction to be LEED certified or equivalent.

Cal Poly founded a chapter of the California Alliance to Save Energy's Green Campus Program, which includes internships for students. The university's 12 student groups, involved with various aspects of sustainability, have joined to create the Empower Poly Coalition.

Cal Poly subsidizes the local transit system, allowing faculty, staff, and students to ride fare-free. The university also offers incentives for carpooling and alternative modes of transportation. One quarter of the university's vehicle fleet uses alternative fuels, including electricity. New bicycle and pedestrian trails are scheduled to open in fall 2008.

The university makes information on endowment holdings available to the public by request, as per open records laws. This information is available at the investment office or similar office on campus.

The university aims to optimize investment return and does not invest in renewable energy funds or community development loan funds.

The university does not have the ability to vote proxies, as the entire endowment is invested in mutual funds.